Karen and Arthritis Support Group meeting
Hi Friends,
Our next get together will be Wednesday February 9 at 6.45 p.m. I know it’s cold but let’s try to reconnect.
Venue – Cibo restaurant 2nd Ave @ the corner of
East 41 St NY. I welcome anyone who is dealing with chronic illness or pain, or readers of my book. All welcome.
We chat, laugh, tell our own personal stories and support each other.
After 6 months of not really being able to receive messages due to spam, I am thrilled to say that I am ready to roll now.
Cheers
Karen
4 comments
Permalink1
Being from out of state, I will be there in mind and spirit.
I hope many of the readers can make it to Cibo’s. It is sure to be fun and educational for all.
Permalink2
We will miss your spirit….it’s ever present and fabulous! Thank you Steve
Permalink3
Hello Karen,
I came across your website and blog while desperately looking for local resources and support groups for myself in the NYC area. I am new to NYC and a Master’s student at NYU (in the social work program ironically). I do not have Rheumatoid Arthritis however my mother does and it has changed my life. She is unfortunately out of state which makes it very difficult for me to deal with. Thankfully my father takes wonderful care of her but it still impacts my sisters and I very much. I am having a very difficult time and would love to meet others who are caregivers or family members of people living with RA. Does your group meet regularly and if so, when is the next one? Is it open to people like me? If not, perhaps you can direct me to another resource? I have joined the NYC Arthritis Foundation Chapter but was very disappointed to learn from them that they do not have any support groups at this time. I appreciate any help. Thank you for your encouraging story–you are an inspiration!
Sincerely,
Sharmila
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Dear Sharmila,
I am sorry to hear about your mom. The caregiving role for your dad and the rest of the family is a difficult and stressful role at times. We would love you to come along to our next meeting. It is likely to be in April, but if you need more support before then we could have a chat by phone or meet up. My website also has tips for caretakers. Your mom is probably grieving for her life as she once knew it. Your dad may feel helpless. He is probably feeling a loss too. Aggressive treatment of the disease and a good doctor who she trusts can also set the whole family up for a more positive future. I am hoping there will be more conversations online like this on my site as I am redirecting all mail away from my personal email to this site now so we can build a community. Your family is not alone. I am sorry for your pain. Trust me, it gets easier. You are a wonderful daughter.
Keep in touch
Karen