Support Groups
Volunteer-led support groups enable individuals with scleroderma to meet and exchange information with others who face similar challenges. Support Group leaders are trained with a comprehensive program developed with our partners at SPIN (Scleroderma Patient-centered Network).
The Pacific Northwest chapter has an active virtual support group in Oregon open to everyone in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington. For more information or to join the support group, contact Christina Fidalgo at cfidalgo@scleroderma.org.
In addition to our local support groups, there are Foundation-affiliated support groups around the country. To access more information about any of our support groups, visit Find a Support Group and search based on your zip code and topics.
Vicki’s Story
During the early years of my disease, I did not know anyone else who had scleroderma or knew what it was. I learned about a support site called Inspire. I decided to get brave and go to a National Scleroderma Conference in San Francisco with someone I connected with on Inspire.com. That “someone” turned out to be our very own Shelley Van Pelt! Oh, my what a wonderful time we had, it was just like we had always been friends!
When we moved to Mount Vernon, I joined the North Sound Scleroderma Support Group. What a joy to get know these amazing folks who are so encouraging and caring. I have had the privilege of being a co-leader these past few years. I am so thankful for everyone in our group, they have become my second family!
I am so thankful for all the support I receive from my family and especially from my husband, Royce, who is my caretaker and biggest supporter. Scleroderma has changed my life in many ways, but along with all my Sclero-sisters and brothers, I keep fighting and hoping for a cure!