Faces of Hope

I remember my first phone call to the Scleroderma Quebec Association. What a welcome I received! I immediately felt welcome and I had the feeling that they were going to help me!

A few days later, I received an envelope from the association filled with brochures, pamphlets and magazines that gave me a lot of information and guidance on how to deal with scleroderma and its effects: From now on, I am not alone!

Our monthly exchanges:

Now, for me, here are the positive effects of our monthly group exchanges:

• It allowed me to calm down in the face of the unknown;
• It’s comforting not to feel alone anymore;
• Knowing that there are other people affected in their bodies in different ways makes me feel that I am surrounded by people who can understand, help and even reassure me;
• Seeing the enthusiasm and the pleasure of everyone to participate in our exchanges, to talk to each other, to share, really makes me feel good;
• Being a member of the Scleroderma Quebec Association, by participating in the exchanges of the support group in the Eastern Townships region, has allowed me to create privileged links! Thus, in the most difficult times, I have reference points and I feel comfortable calling and          sharing with a member of the association.

Conclusion:

I like sharing with the Eastern Townships Region support group because of the information I receive. Also, the sharing of tips and resources that help me better manage and understand my condition.

I also appreciate the conferences with great specialists (scleroderma-anxiety-stress management, etc.): it’s very informative and helps me prepare for my medical appointments and/or feel more comfortable in dealing with the realities of my disease!

My personal experience with the Eastern Townships support group has been nothing but positive!

Thanks again to the leaders of this support group and BRAVO for their unique set of skills and abilities in facilitating our monthly exchanges.

Louise Girard
Magog