Support Group southern CA?

[pyrofun]

Does anyone know of a support group for SCI families in the southern CA area? (I live in the high desert, Victorville/Hesperia area.) If not, does anyone have any information on how to start one?

Thanks!

Georgia

[SCI-Nurse]

Not much out that way, but you might check group at the Loma Linda University Medical Center rehab unit to see if there is something I am not aware of. They have their own group and might be willing to help:

PossAbilities Club at RONI (Rehabilitation, Orthopedic and Neurosurgical Institute)
Loma Linda, University Medical Center, Loma Linda, California, 92354
Phone: (909) 558-6071
Contact: Paddy Garvin
Provides friendship and networking to spinal cord injured persons and their families and friends in our surrounding communities.

This would also be a good linkage for getting a group going. You will have more credibility, and more likely get referrals from local rehab programs if you have a professional such as a rehab social worker or psychologist involved in the group, even if only on a consultant basis. Getting people to know about the group, and finding a time to meet when people can get transportation are usually the two biggest barriers. A place to meet is often easier. Evenings there are often meeting rooms available at churches or hospitals. Daytime you may find a church available on a weekday. Good luck!

You could also look into trying to start an NSCIA chapter, but this is much more involved: www.spinalcord.org

(KLD)

[pyrofun]

Many thanks and appreciation! I am going to definitely look into Loma Linda..it's only an hour away from me.