I am lucky enough to have a fantastic support group in my little town. When first diagnosed (2001) I went, and to my horror there were three older women in wheelchairs (one terribly disabled), two younger men with walkers, and a couple of people with walking sticks.

It was like a snapshot into a very scary future.

Unti we started talking. It was then I realised that this was an upbeat, fun and intelligent and diverse group of great people - defined not by their disability, but by their genuine desire to support and nurture others along the path that they have taken.

We alternate between social and formal meetings - and sometimes we just get together for a catch-up.

People have come and gone, but the essence is still there. I have been around other groups that do nothing more than complain about there symptoms and how little support they get, and it does get you down.

You can't be responsible for other people like that - it is their choice how they 'live their disease'.

Lyn