ADDISON'S DISEASE SELF-HELP GROUP

by Deana Kenward

I started the Addison's Disease Self-Help Group in 1984, a year after being diagnosed as having Addison's Disease myself.

I have information about Addison's Disease and print a newsletter which goes out every two months. It includes members' medical questions very kindly answered by a Professor of Endocrinology. I print a few members' names and addresses in each issue (if they want to be contacted by fellow sufferers) as well as any interesting items about members, e.g. birthdays, anniversaries or any news they want to share with other members.

There are approximately 400 members, of whom 272 receive the newsletters, and I know of at least 100 other people who have Addison's Disease, but do not wish to join the group.

Members range from children to retired people and come from as far afield as Penzance in Cornwall and Fife in Scotland. I try and have at least one open day a year when I open my house for any group of members who can travel to Guildford. Usually between 10 and 16 members attend accompanied by friends/relatives. It is a good opportunity meet fellow sufferers and to compare notes about Addison's Disease.

I run the group from my home and do not have any financial backing at all, relying on subscriptions and donations. Members pay an annual subscription of £5 at the beginning of each year to cover the cost of stationery, photocopying, postage, etc. I have opened a bank account for the group's money, so it is quite safe until needed. All cheques should be made payable to the group and not to me.

As Addison's Disease is so rare, it is always nice to welcome new members to the group and help them as much as I can, so hopefully I will hear from you in the near future.

Addison's Disease Self-Help Group
21 George Road
Guildford
Surrey
GU1 4NP

01483 830673
01483 830673

Associated Medical Information