New Support Group In Vancouver Area

[Kahlen - Sue]

I WANTED TO LET EVERYONE KNOW THAT I AM STARTING A SUPPORT GROUP FROM MY HOME. I HAVEN'T YET HEARD OF ANY FORMAL ONES SO I'M NOT GOING TO WAIT UNTIL THAT HAPPENS. THERE ARE 3 OF US SO FAR THAT ARE COMMUNICATING TO EACH OTHER AND ARE STARTING TO MEET ON TUESDAY NOV 9/04. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED PLEASE LET ME KNOW. WE NEED TO BAND TOGETHER TO EDUCATE THE GP'S THAT THIS DISEASE AND THOSE THAT SUFFER FROM IC DESERVE COMPASSION, RECOGNITION AND RESPECT, MORE IMPORTANTLY HELP. THIS DISEASE HAS TAKEN FAR TOO MUCH OUT OF ME, AND I WANT MY LIFE BACK. I BELIEVE THAT THERE ARE MANY OF YOU WANTING THE SAME THING AND WE CAN'T DO IT ALONE. THIS SUPPORT GROUP IS A START TO HELP EACH OTHER AND WE CAN ALL TAKE IT FROM THERE.

[Janette Rass]

Hi , I too live in Vancouver. I was diagnosed in 1999 and at that time I was able to find a support group in New West. I attended 1 meeting but the group did not fit for me at that time, my condition was mostly flares and urgency but the symptoms did not appear that frequently. However the group did help me get the uro that I used for the last 5 years or so. Since the winter/spring of 2004 my condition has worsened to the point where I can no longer work. It has been very tough but I try to keep my chin up. I am trying out a new dr and he has new ideas and treatments. I am now undergoing instillations for the 1st time and although one thing didn't seem to work with me too well, I am trying something else starting tomorrow! Wish me luck. I'd love to join a group. I could use some support (as I know it is hard for others to understand) and there is nothing better for keeping your mind off your problems than trying to help others with theirs! Let me know what's happening, you could add me to your list! WARM HUGS ALL AROUND JANETTE

[Kahlen - Sue]

Hi Guys, Well its here , This Tuesday Nov 16/04 7:30, email me personally at kahlen-welsch@shaw.ca for the details of how to get here. Can't wait to see everyone. Please spread the word, the more the merrier . Cheers Hugs to all Sue

[Kahlen - Sue]

Hi to all, We just had our first meeting last night and it was absolutely great. Meeting others face to face is so comforting and supportive. We connected right away, and found new friends along the way. We are meeting again in 3 weeks (Janette is off to Mexico!!! Lucky Girl, Have a GREAT TIME! YOU DESERVE IT GIRL) . Our next meeting is on Dec 7/04 at 7:30 at the same location. If you are new to the area and would like to join us, please private message me and we will be happy to have you join us, or email my private address at kahlen-welsch@shaw.ca and I will send you the directions to the Support meeting. Can't wait till we meet again! This is truely a turning point for us, and look out! cause we have plans to be heard. Thanks so much for coming, its really so nice to meet such wonderful woman. Warm and loving hugs to everyone!! Sue Together we can make a difference!!!