Support

Sup-port 

Noun

:help and kindness that you give to someone who is going through a difficult time.

This is the definition right out of the dictionary, which seems pretty self explanatory. But the differences remain in how and to what extreme or extent the support extends.

I guess you could say that support is needed all throughout life, but especially in times when you need it the most.

And for most, when living with a chronic illness such as these pain conditions, it essentially requires quite amount of support.

But often times, we are afraid to ask for the support we need, fearing that we will be viewed as 'weak,' or 'needy.'

The point is we must learn to understand that support is a key factor in the healing process when living with a chronic illness. Although you may have your faith or whichever higher power you lean upon, there is however a need for a shoulder to lean on during extremely trying times.

For most of us, we can find comfort in the arms of our family and friends, but at times when it comes to illness, sometimes finding others who truly understand is just as important.

With this support comes the feeling that you're not alone and an outlet to share your journey with others. Sometimes there are just certain aspects of our daily lives that we feel more comfortable discussing in private with those who share a similar illness rather than with someone who can only emphasize. Not to say that we don't appreciate the support or prayers of those we are closest to, because we do, but there is just a sense of comfort in the face of illness.

And often that is where support groups come in, where people with similar struggles can come together weekly, monthly or however schedules are decided to just vent about their journey and discuss amongst each other our stories. Thus, with this common ground established, friendships are formed quickly as a similar understanding of the illness is spoken for...

Members may come from all different backgrounds, faiths, beliefs, but that is all put aside when the main goal remains focused on supporting one another through the good days and the bad. When one is having a difficult time with symptoms or experiencing a positive progression, support group members as a whole can take part in listening to each person as they face the many scenarios of the illness; nevertheless the atmosphere creates a safe place.

Just feeling as though you have others to open up to is a Godsend. And being able to share advice, stories, laughs and even tears is what the term support is all about.

And chances are the support will not only be limited to the 'meetings,' but go beyond  with lunch dates and get togethers etc...

This sense of security in support with a group of others living similar lifestyles makes it a bit easier to fight through each day as we can confide in one another when times are rougher than others. Knowing that someone is only a text or call away who understands is reassuring especially if you find yourself in a tough spot like in the hospital or unable to attend meetings in person. A random phone call/text to check in or send good thoughts our way in some of our more challenging moments with the disease.

The compassion and genuine support within the boundaries of these groups of individuals is important in the lives of many with these disorders. Often times outside these realms, friendships are not formed on the basis of illness and the lack of understanding/knowledge isn't always the best.

I truly believe when we all seek out a support group or others suffering like us, we are looking for the same thing; non-judgemental support and a place where we feel welcomed with open arms. There is no need to wonder if you truly 'belong' there. And when you leave there, you aren't left holding back tears, but relieved. You shouldn't have to worry about other's making comments about your illness or snide remarks.

That is how I view support in my mind...

This is one of the very first things that I found myself searching for when I was diagnosed back in November of 2007. I was simply looking for someone who knew somewhat how I was feeling and understood the difficulties of these kind of diseases. That's all I wanted and will always be in search of.

And one of the first places I found it wasn't in person, but through social-networking sites like 'myspace' and facebook. I am so very thankful for some of the first sufferers that I met this way. And more recently the ones i've met in person.

I have met so many, that I can't even name names, but you surely know who you are. No words, will ever will ever be enough to say thank you for 'being' there for me, especially in the last year and a half at my sickest.