Sechelt Parkinson's Self-Help Support Group

Why a Support Group?
Participating in a support group is an excellent way to reduce the fear, isolation, and depression of coping with Parkinson’s Disease. Whereas friends may look away and stammer their excuses, whereas associates may think they understand your dilemma but don’t, whereas the world may minimize or even ignore the struggle you are engaged in every day, members of a support group are different. They have been there. They know things firsthand, and they can help.
Some of the topics discussed in PD support groups include:
• Home Safety
• Depression and stress
• Research and future technology
• Sleep problems
• Improving coping skills
• Caregiving and strategies
• Physicians
• Balance and falling
• Exercise strategies
Support groups are created for both individuals with PD and their caregiver or family members. A Parkinson’s Support Group can significantly improve one’s knowledge and understanding of PD. The support group atmosphere is dynamically caring, and is a place where by design all are accepted and encouraged to participate.

October 11 - there were 11 members attending. Closed with a short meditation session

September 13 - There were only three in attendance for this meeting. Lifeline home emergency system gave a very detailed and informative talk. We appreciate Dawna Fraser for taking the time to explain this very valuable and life saving equipment.

June 26 - The Regional Conference was well attended and enjoyed. Speaker Paula Coughlan spoke on:
    a) speech changes in parkinsons.
    b) improving your speech &
    c) a note to listeners.
The lecture was practical & applicable...
all went home with new knowledge on improving speech & listening.

The group met on June 14 for the first time since December. There were 12 people in attendance, plus Sherrill and Marilyn. There were an equal number of caregivers and Parkinson patients at the meeting.

    We introduced ourselves and discussed what topics we would like to pursue for the following year. Among the ideas for speakers were, alternative medicine, Lifeline emergency home system, diet, pharmacist etc. The topic for September 14 will be posted later.

The group were enthusiastic regarding a short meditation session to be led by Marilyn. We will end our meetings with a 15 minute relaxationin the future.
June 8 - Long term care coordinator Nancy Horne spoke on: the services available on the Coast; long term care information in general; services available to seniors and information about eligibility.
As summer weather and summer visitors are upon us the meetings was not as well attended as usual.

April 13th - was well attended. Some concerns were addressed & some information regarding disability assistance was made available.

Our meeting on March 9/04 was well attended.
A talk by Alinda Buckler on Parkinson's and Nutrition was very well Received.
Many questions were answered.

February 10/04
The meeting was well attended with one new member welcomed.
Robert Regnerus from B.C. ambulance service left all with a good understanding about calling 911 and the value of Lifelines. Many questions were answered.
Plans for tulip sales (April 7th) are proceeding.

January 13/04
A general discussion "Where Do We Go From Here?"
Plus:
Guest Speaker: Betty Jeffries for 10 to 15 minutes on "QiGong and Parkinson's."