7 replies to this topic

[colleen01]

I really could use an "in person" person or persons that have CML to meet for lunch on occasion. Or a support group. I can feel my depression coming back since diagnosis end of August. I need others and need to get out of the house.
If anyone lives near Pgh,PA and is interested in meeting for lunch let me know and I will send email.
I'm 57,married,adult kids,but not working so I'm isolated most days.
Let's support each other and maybe go walking and talking together
Colleen CML/accelerated phase/Tasigna (400 mg) 2 x per day

[kat73]

Colleen - Good on you for pulling it together and making this effort for yourself.  First steps!  I am not in your area, and I am very hopeful that someone will come forward here who is, but I wanted to suggest (if you haven't done this already) that you might check with the LLS in your area (maybe CML Society also) to see if they can share names or have a group where you could meet someone.  We used to be as rare as hens' teeth, but not anymore!  There's lots of us around.  Your onc (if local) might be another source - he/she could act as go-between for an initial contact with one of his other CML patients.  And keep holding to the thought, depression ends.  You have a future.

[mikefromillinois]

Colleen, this is from the LLS Pittsburgh website:

 

Local Family Support Groups

Open communication is critical for coping with the feelings that arise during illness. Family Support Groups feature sessions led by local healthcare professionals where you can share your concerns, fears, problems and experiences in a comfortable and caring setting.

The Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia Chapter offers several family support groups that meet on a monthly basis and are facilitated by health professionals. Groups take place in Pittsburgh (Shadyside, South Hills), Erie, PA and Wheeling, WV. If you've been touched by cancer (patient, caregiver, friend), you are welcome to join us. For more information, call us at (412) 395-2882.

 

If you attend the "groups" you can establish relationships with folks who might like to meet for lunch/coffee.

 

Good luck...

 

Mike

[Frogiegirl]

Colleen01 although I'm not in your area, I too understand how it would benefit us if we had someone to chat with in person....I was able to meet someone who I chat with pretty regular on the phone and through texts, it has helped a lot. I lean on him when I am in  a "Rut" so to speak. (he to has CML, met him right here on this discussion board)  so even if you don't get to meet them in person its still nice to have that contact even if only by phone. psssst were all here too  

[tazdad08]

I agree so strongly with frogiegirl. Meeting in person would be amazing, but just having that person that you can connect with, that truly understands what is really going on just gives you a calming feeling. I know that we all family and friends as our supporters. But I have to say that the support I get from my great friend (Frogiegirl) is honestly more comforting than any other! And helping others and sharing your own ups and downs also helps you feel a bit of accomplishment. 

[colleen01]

thanks for the replies. Still new at this so hopefully that explains why Mike from Illinois knows about groups Pittsburgh that I had no clue about. I will check that out. Thanks again.

[tiredblood]

I know exactly how you feel. Having a 'in person' person available is something that has been missing since diagnosis for me. There is a group that meets during the day in my area, but I'm working when they meet.

[mlk210]

Hi Colleen. I live in Illinois, and I found a local group through National CML Society that meets every other month. It's a small group of us, but it helps to talk face to face. I didn't see anything in Pittsburgh when I looked, but they have other resources including Peer Matching. 

 

http://www.nationalc...o/peer-matching