With a brand new year and January underway, perhaps a new year’s goal to consider would be to attend one of The Jim “Catfish” Hunter Chapter’s Support Groups. You’ve probably heard about them at clinic or read about them in the newsletters. Hopefully you’re receiving emails or notecards informing you of the most convenient support group’s meeting date, time and topic. While I realize that support groups are not for everyone I do believe they can be extremely beneficial in alleviating isolation and providing useful information about ALS and what is happening in your ALS community.
For those who have not attended one I think there is some apprehension about what this experience will be like. Going anywhere for the first time can be daunting. You might be concerned about where others are in their disease process and how this looks. You might think that it’s going to be a “downer”.
What I’ve noticed and appreciate about support groups is the relationship building and meaningful connections that are being made. PALS and CALS sharing; tips on what has worked for them or questions to ask at clinic. There is a lot of laughing. Going to clinic is vastly important because you are seeing specialists in a multidisciplinary setting to address a variety of needs. Going to a support group you are getting hands on information and understanding from your peers who are also living with the reality of having ALS. It offers a very valuable piece of the puzzle to those navigating through the layers of ALS.
We offer two kinds of groups; a Resource or Educational group as well as a Caregiver Support group. We have in person groups as well as options to call in from home. Currently we offer in person Resource Support groups in the Hickory/ Unifour, Raleigh/ Triangle, and the Greensboro/ Triad areas. In person Caregiver Support groups are in Hickory/ Unifour, Charlotte, Raleigh/ Triangle, and the Wilmington areas. There is also a Telephone Resource Support group and a Caregiver Support group offered. As well as the new Telephone Caregiver Ventilator Support Group starting on February 23rd from 3-4pm.
I’ll end with a PALS perspective on support groups.
When I was first diagnosed with ALS, I didn’t know anything about the disease or anyone living with it. I felt very alone. At support group, we come together, share ideas, coping tips, experiences and most importantly, to exchange emotional support. There is an educational speaker at every meeting as well as open discussion and refreshments. No where is there a more patient, understanding or helpful group for people with ALS. I have never met a PALS I didn’t like. There is an instant connection among members by just showing up. – Nancy Clements
Be sure to visit our website for more information about our current support group schedule, Chapter programs and events at www.CatfishChapter.org.
Lisa Hoskins, Care Services Social Worker
