My Fibroymalgia Support Group Efforts

While I'm not familiar with all the details on fibromyalgia, I do know that painting is very therapeutic. I can't imagine any infliction that doing something calming and creative wouldn't help, and just spending time with someone who has been through what she's going through is also sure to help.

I think it would help me. First, by being with another person with fibromyalgia, I would feel comfort in knowing someone would understand some issues no one else can understand. Also, learning something new, something that takes our minds off of the pain and problems, would be beneficial. It may start out small, but I imagine you'll end up having a big impact.

I paint, sculpt, sew, woodburn...anything to take my mind off of the fibro and keep moving. It's good for the mind and spirit. You are doing a good thing! Might I ask, How did you get to the point of remission? That is a blessing that I have been praying for. It is easy to become isolated. Not many people (even doctors) understand fibro. I think it is very important to find those who do understand and make it a point to get out and enjoy life!

I think what you are doing is wonderful. Doing something creative is very therapeutic... like my writing. One of the suggestions made to our support group was to have a drumming session. Yes, playing bongos. We have different speakers at our meetings, learn different therapies, etc. I also like spending time with my support group but in any group there are different personalities and people have different beliefs as well as different doctors with different beliefs. People have to be respectful of one another first and foremost. Post information about the support group you are trying to put together in different places. It won't be long before you have a good sized group. Good luck!

I have fibro and I paint with pastels. I find that when I am concentrating on my art I forget about the pain for a while. However, sometimes the pain is aggrivated by carrying my supplies to and from class. So the teacher and some of the other students are helpful in carrying for me when I need help. I wish you well with your support group. I belonged to one for a while and found it helpful. I learned a lot about the illness and what helps some folks. I also felt less isolated. Before my diagnosis I'd never heard of it before. I also learned to appreciate that my level of pain and fatigue was not as bad as some. It made it easier for me to tell myself "it could be worse." Are you networking with the national organization? They have a web page and good information, materials, etc.

When i was really bad w/ fibro my kids were younger and my hubby gave a lot of grief when i went to the support group in my area...it really wasnt worth the hassle... however, there are really good online groups for fibro (yahoo for one) that i joined but now my focus is the severe osteo arthritis that i have in my knees... your class sounds great! good luck with it...my mom and i took tole painting and i loved it! i still do some, but have began writing a couple of years ago so i am pretty busy with that.