Opening up e-mail communications from patients, family and friends is extremely important to the foundation as it gifts suggestions, ideas and genuine support.  A woman in Holland, e-mailed NMR Foundation as she couldn’t find a  Support Group in the Netherlands. We have suggested that with the help of a relative or friend she seriously look into starting a group. The first sentence of her email stated that she wanted to express her "profound gratitude" that the foundation is directed toward research.     

Last week we received many requests for information about Support Groups throughout the country: NMR Foundation is deeply committed to promote a base of support for the continual help and encouragement to all who have been diagnosed with PMR/GCA. Our goal is to organize Support Groups in every state with the help of patients, family/friends and the medical community. 

A support group is designed as a platform for communications within a small gathering dedicated to wellness. NMR Foundation encourages a small group (4 - 5) to start. Bringing inspirational ideas and "good news" to others can be the tool for changing attitudes and stimulate a positive direction. A family member or friend should be asked to attend meetings with the patient for at times the patient is depressed, confused and in such pain that they would rather reject the whole idea. The road to health requires enthusiastic cheers and understanding from family, friends and the medical community.

Recovery happens!  Believe me, I've been there and done that!  For many months I couldn't imagine feeling wonderful, full of hope and applause!  The "birth" of the NMR Foundation pushed me into a path of determined wellness which energized my bruised body and set me on the track to fulfill a vision.

My great family understood that the road to health requires enthusiastic cheers from all the family, friends and the bunch next door. I believe everybody is born with a gift that can be fired up when the time is “ripe”! This might be the time to "start the engine of return!"  

Find ways to stimulate the NMR Foundation mission: the cure, find an alternative medicine other than steroids, a diagnostic tool, and, market our web site for the Circuit City bag of goodies! These actions could be your vehicle to great health. Do you like speaking to groups - organize neighborhood awareness groups, volunteer to market newspapers, etc. We need you!

Please contact me and tell your story.  I want to know what you are thinking, your ideas and suggestions.  Only you can start the healing machine: talk to me!

Joan L. Reiter, Founder