Patients Supporting Patients

I agree too, I went to a support group for 5 years. Was not a pity party but a lot of supportive women who are good friends now. We laughed a lot and there was crying but not nearly as much of that as the laughter.

I also think patients helping patients help doctors. You get suggestions on questions to ask and that could help the doctor patient relationship. The patients can be more focused on what they should talk to their doctor about. I think support groups area great because you talk to real people about the issues they experience. NO doctor, not even a concerned nurse can fully understand the many physical, emotional, and mental issues that arise from diagnosis, treatment and just living on. I love to be with a group of women. It balances out. I was part of SHARE in NYC which uses peeer faciitators. I liked that. It was rarely a 'pity' party. And one makes long-term friends.