A new Saturday support group for those who suffer from Inflammatory Bowel Disease, IBD, will start at 1 p.m. beginning Saturday Aug. 11 in the New River Room (on the main level) of the Carilion New River Valley Medical Center (2900 Lamb Circle, Christiansburg).
The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation Support Group for the New River Valley is for adults and children who suffer from Crohn’s disease and any type of intestinal illness,” Lisa Chrisman, the group organizer wrote in an email.
“The only meeting even close to this area is in Roanoke. Many people would like to attend, but it’s too far to drive and it is at night,” Chrisman who has worked with Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous for nine years wrote. “This group is an outlet for discussion about the disease, education and support. It is new to the NRV. There is a demand for this type of platform.”
The disease affects people by loss of weight, pain, nausea, diarrhea, loss of work and income said Chrisman who has, herself, suffered from the disease for 24 years.
“I remember when I was diagnosed the doctors didn’t know much about my illness and I had no one to turn to. Had there been a support group it would have helped me cope much better.”
This support group is designed to help caregivers and patients who suffer from IBD.
Please contact Lisa Chrisman at 540-505-8337 for more details.