NEW DYSTONIA SUPPORT GROUP FOR COUNTY DURHAM
25 April 2007
People with dystonia who live in County Durham can benefit from a new support group in Peterlee, set up by Karen Smith, the Expert Patient Programme Co-ordinator at County Durham Primary Care Trust.
"The need to set up a Dystonia Support Group was highlighted when I attended a meeting in December last year, and it transpired that two of the members were dystonia sufferers", explains Karen.
"We decided to meet early this year and the formation of the group began. With support from Peterlee Health Forum, we were able to buy stationery and other equipment necessary in the setting up of a small group."
The group, known as Easington District Dystonia Support Group, meets on the second Friday of each month at Walkers Leaning Centre in Peterlee, from 10.00 am – 12.00 pm.
The aim of the group is to welcome and support dystonia sufferers, their family, friends or carers. It will give people with dystonia the opportunity to meet others with the same condition, who may be able to relate to the feelings, problems or issues, that they encounter. Members will also be able to support one another by sharing their own experiences.
Karen says: "We hope to offer not only support but also up-to-date information on treatment and the latest technology being used."
The venue, Walkers Learning Centre, also offers members free access to computers, internet and accredited courses, with computer technicians on hand to help and offer advice. The staff are also helping members to set up their own website, which will help raise awareness of the group.
One member comments: “The group has offered me the chance to meet other people with dystonia who understand what it is like and understand what I am talking about.”
New members are welcome and should contact Karen on 0191 587 6028.