Nambour and District Support Group provides Parkinson's support

NewsCommunity

13 Apr

**Nambour and District Support Group would love to see you join their caring and supportive group.**

April is Parkinsons Awareness Month. We asked Nambour and District Support Group communications & marketing volunteer Kevin McAney to outline where to find support on the Coast.

Living with Parkinson’s or caring for someone with Parkinson’s is full of challenges, but you don’t have to feel alone. Support groups affiliated with Parkinson’s Queensland (PQI) operate throughout Queensland, and there are four groups on the Sunshine Coast.

A Support Group is an informal gathering of people (peers) who share similar experiences, situations or challenges. They are not therapy groups, they provide peer support.

Parkinson’s Support Groups provide members with a chance to meet and talk with others while offering each other emotional and practical support as well as social interaction.

While no two people with Parkinson’s are ever the same and it’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is unique, you are not alone.

What Can Support Groups Do For ME?

Parkinson’s support groups are ideal for people living with Parkinson’s, their carers, friends and family members. Support groups encourage the growth of knowledge. By knowing more about Parkinson’s through the experience of others, and through professional resources, you will discover new ways of dealing with your own symptoms and challenges

Support Group meetings typically involve:

• Group discussions and sharing experiences, information, practical tips and advice

• Social activities

• Guest speakers who are invited to meetings to discuss topical and relevant subjects

Parkinson’s Queensland affiliated Support Groups also have a range of information resources available for members.

The Support Groups use a self-help model coordinated by volunteers, usually a person living with Parkinson’s and/or their partner or carer.

The groups appeal to a range of people for a variety of reasons and vary in their dynamics, from the number of members, to the age and interests of the individuals. If you are struggling and wondering where to get help, come and join us at the Nambour and District Support Group on the first Friday of each month for an informal, friendly get-together.

• Nambour and District Support Group PQI Meetings are held at Sanctuary Park Church of Christ, 22 National Park Road, Nambour. We would love to see you join our caring and supportive group. Please call and have a chat with our Coordinator: Ray Clark on 0401 173 336. Other contacts: Parkinson’s Queensland Inc. on 1800 644 189 or 3209 1588 or email pqi@Parkinsonsqld.org.au. Web: www.parkinsons-qld.org.au