Life-threatening illness can take its toll, not only on an individual but also their family. That’s why, for years, WJCS has provided individual and family counseling and supportive connections when people and their loved ones face chronic or life-limiting illness.
Jane Slevin, LMFT, facilitator of a WJCS support group which is composed of people with a variety of illnesses, including multiple sclerosis, cancer, neuropathy, and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), explained “each month we discuss a wide range of topics, like coping mechanisms, symptoms, family dynamics, navigating the medical system. and life in general.”
“When I joined the group and told my story, I nearly cried from relief. I felt, for the first time, others truly understood what I had been going through, and it helped me feel less alone,” said Loryn Altsher.
“We provide support for each other,” said another group member. “We sometimes offer ideas but mostly just listen and try to make each other’s day a little brighter. Along with our great facilitator, we strive to learn and increase awareness of our own illness and do the same for our fellow group members.”
Another group participant said, “I believe that this group helped save me from a serious depression regarding the onset of my disease. I was wallowing when I went to this group and came out a much better person, thanks to the group and participants.”
The support group welcomes new members. Other WJCS services for people with chronic illness include: needs assessment, office and telehealth visits, referral to resources, and discussion and assistance with completing advance directives.
For more information. please contact Jane Slevin, LMFT, at 914-761-0600 x2143; [email protected].
