Support Groups:

Upcoming Support Meetings:

Directions to Gulf Gate Library (7112 Curtis Ave. Sarasota Phone at Library - 861-1230)

From Hwy 41 go east on Gulf Gate Drive, go aprx. 1 1/2 miles, the library will be located on
the right side corner of Gulf Gate Drive and Curtis Ave.

Directions to the Senior Friendship Center 1900 Brother William Geenan Way, Rm #1900, Sarasota 941-955-2122):

From I 75, take exit 210 Fruitville Rd. towards St. Armands/Downtown
take a left on Washington Blvd/US 301
take a right onto Brother William Geenan Way (just before Hwy 41 and across the street from Sarasota Ford)
turn left into the first drive into the Senior Center complex. Building #1900 is on the left

If you have questions please call 496-4057 or email JWatkins48@aol.com


     

Patient and Caregiver Support Group:

In February 2001, LGDA formed a cornerstone of its mission with the creation of its ALS Patient and Caregiver Support Group.

The Support Group is an essential tool in helping patients, families and caregivers live with ALS. From its modest beginnings and as a result of an aggressive outreach program, the Support Group already has over 67 active members including 55 persons with ALS living in the greater Sarasota area. Our numbers continue to grow each month as more people with ALS and their families, as well as other members of our community whose lives have been affected by someone with ALS, learn about LGDA and the valuable services we provide.

Our Support Group provides a caring and compassionate environment that fosters emotional support and personal interaction among patients, caregivers, and health care professionals that is so very important for persons with ALS. A wealth of information is shared at the meetings that includes... learning about the disease and ways to cope with the stresses placed on relationships and families,  sharing information on counseling, physician referrals, in-home services and help in disease management,  guest speaker presentations by neurologists, pulmonologists, therapists and other physicians to ensure our members receive the very latest information on therapies, clinical trials and on-going ALS research providing a safe place to express oneself in confidentiality, and to find hope.

Meetings are free and open to persons with ALS, their families and friends. Contact Jim Watkins, Support Group Leader, at 941-496-4057. Meetings are held on the third Thursday of the month from 2pm - 4pm.

Caregiver Support Group:

In February, 2002, LGDA formed it's caregiver support group for caregivers only, facilitated by a Licensed Mental Health Counselor.  Meetings are free and open to caregivers of persons with ALS.  Contact Vicki Watkins at (941) 496-4057.  Meetings are held the first Wednesday of the month from 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

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