Is there a spouse/SO support group in Chicago?

[ryanbytes]

I'm still scouring the web but I thought I might get some good leads here. My GF is still trying to wrap her head around everything and we thought being able to talk to others in a situation similar to hers would help.

[Tbackpain1]

I don't know of any support groups specifically for SO's for people with chronic pain, but I do know that the topic has been covered here a number of times. Its difficult for them to understand exactly what we're dealing with, because they truly have nothing to base that understanding on. Often just good communication can help. My hubs and I went through ALOT of issues with my CP stuff, but we were able to talk between ourselves and with my PM counselor to give him a better understanding of my needs and for me to understand what was bothering him. We started dating a little over a year before all this spine stuff started with me...I don't know many 21 y/o guys who'd stick around for all this, but apparently I found a good one. Even though there's been more than a few bumps in the road with this, we've managed so far. He's more supportive than ever after he pulled a muscle in his lower back...gave him a bit of an idea of the kind of pain I deal with on a daily basis.

One of our spiney success stories (MMglobal had ADR and is back to living and enjoying life to its fullest) hosted a spine symposium in NYC a couple years back and during that day his wife spoke on caring for a spouse with a spinal issue. Here's the thread from his website: http://globalpatientnetwork.com/archive/BT-caring3.htm

I wish there was more I could do to help...I'll see if I can find out any info on support groups in your area. Take care.

Theresa