pain support group

[worried878]

I forgot to mention that I was trying to start a chronic pain support group here in my city...does anyone have any info on this type of thing?  or do you have one in your area?  the organization is called American Chronic Pain Association and they sent me some info on getting the group started and now I need to find a room to hold the meetings at..any help would be appreciated

[sandee1818]

I am late to the conversation here but I wanted to offer some advice. I attend a group at a local church. It is free and there are alot of members. They advertise with flyer's like Mollyrae said in your local stores, churches and anywhere you go on a daily basis. If your going to these places chances are others who are suffering are too.
I think it is great what your doing and I know you will succeed. Remember also to tell each new member to invite a friend or loved one. Not only chronic pain Pt's but their loved ones should be welcomed too. When our loved ones attend they have a much better understanding of what we go through. I would also check with the pain management clinics and see if you can post flyer's there. I found my group this way.
Good luck!

[worried878]

i will keep u guys posted...do u mean craigs list online?

[Mollyrae]

Hi Worried:

As far as craigs list, I would start in the community section under Events or General. There are a few different areas there that would fit your group. Craigs list has a huge following and I think you will get soem really great results posting it there.

Also, if you call your local news station or new paper, they can give you leads on where to post community events.

The possibilitys are endless.

Good luck.........

[worried878]

i got the pamphlets in the mail today and paid the fee to be a member of this organiztion..so i am only steps away

[worried878]

I love the ideas....a minimal cost is no biggie and if i get it going people will pitch in...never thought of craigs list...did think of fliers...where would i post it on craigs list?

[Mollyrae]

Hello Worried:

I too am glad to hear of the commitment to helping yourself and others in the battle with chronic pain.

I feel the best place to begin your group would be at your local community center. Often the space is free if your a member. If your are not a member, the cost would be minimal. Ask for donations or tell the centers orginizers what you are trying to do. I think they will work with you as far as getting the space you need.

Next, place flyers in public places. Many business will let you post the flyers in there establishment. Contact your local news station and tell them of your group. Sometimes they will post it on their web site.

Craigs list is a really good place for getting the word out. Post it in the community events section. And last but not least, post a flyer in the community center. There are so many ppl that suffer from CP and I'll bet you'll get great response.

Don't be discouraged if you don't get a good turn out right away. It takes a while to get the word out.

In your group, offer a beverage and cookies. You might experience slight cost at first but as the group grows, you'll find others willing to help in that department. Have future group goers rotate with the postings and refreshments.

I'm sure that once you have established yourself, you will have a full house.

Please take care and please let us know how it all goes. I will be curious as to the outcome. If you can make this work, I'll think about starting my own. I have held previous benefits for friends and have done this on my own....The word spreads fast. I also found many businesses to donate everything from the food & beverage to the door prizes.

Good luck with it all,
Mollyrae

[Tuckamore]

Worried,

I am so happy to hear that you are starting a Chronic Pain Support Group. I am excited for you. I'm sorry I have not done such a thing nor am I aware of any in my immediate area. In fact I don't know of any at all. But what a great idea.

Please let us know how difficult it is to start a group. I will be interested in hearing if you have a good turn out. I think it would be a good idea in my area also.

Best of luck in beginning your new group. Good luck. I admire your courage and commitment. Tuck