In the early days after a traumatic brain injury, when symptoms are most acute and much time is devoted to recovery and rehabilitation, survivors often do not realize the full extent of their limitations. Self-awareness is often limited in the early stages of recovery. As self-awareness recovers, the survivor gradually begins to understand the consequences of their injury and may often develop depression, anxiety, or other emotional distress.

Past studies have shown that increased age may also be associated with increased emotional distress after a traumatic brain injury. To better understand the relationship of age and time after injury with emotional response, researchers recently conducted a controlled study of traumatic brain injury survivors from 5 to 22 years after injury.

They found that age itself was not associated with emotional distress. Likewise, the amount of time past injury was, in itself, not associated with emotional distress. What the researchers did find was that there was an interaction between age and the amount of time after injury—with younger survivors showing increasingly higher levels of emotional distress as time passed.

The researchers suggested a few theories to explain this finding. Over time, younger people may become more distressed about their inability to complete life goals. Younger people may also be less likely to have established relationships that provide continued support as years pass. Survivors who were young at the time of injury, whether the injury was recent or from several years ago, should therefore be identified and evaluated for additional treatment.

Senathi-Raja D, Ponsford J, & Schonberger M. The association of age and time post injury with long-term emotional outcome following traumatic brain injury. Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation. (February 2010).

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur after experiencing a traumatic event and may lead to poor recovery and psychological difficulties. Studies over the past few years have shown that admission to an intensive care unit (ICU) is associated with the development of PTSD.

There are several established reasons why PTSD might be associated with admittance to ICU. For instance, life-threatening injuries and the psychological trauma associated with witnessing a traumatic event can increase the risk of developing PTSD. Additionally, people with a psychiatric history are more likely to be admitted to ICU for a traumatic injury than the general population.

An Australian team of researchers recently conducted a study to determine if admittance to ICU itself increased the risk of developing PTSD, and to uncover any other factors that might increase that risk even further. They found that, independent from any other risk factor, people admitted to ICU were three times as likely to develop PTSD. Other factors that increased this risk were:

1. The presence of a mild traumatic brain injury
2. Female gender
3. History of trauma or psychiatric disorder
4. Longer length of hospital admission

The research team cited 3 possible reasons that ICU admission could increase the risk of PTSD. Sleep disturbance, increased stress, and delirium from certain drugs could all play a role in how the brain processes traumatic events. Screening tools to identify high-risk patients and low doses of sleep agents may be effective interventions.

O’Donnell ML, Creamer M, Holmes ACN, et al. Posttraumatic stress disorder after injury: Does admission to intensive care unit increase risk? Journal of Trauma Injury, Infection, and Critical Care. (February 2010).

Multiple BIAA representatives attended this week a scientific conference titled, “Trauma Spectrum Disorders: The Role of Gender, Race & Other Socioeconomic Factors.” This conference – jointly sponsored by the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the National Institutes of Health – focused on identifying and sharing knowledge and lessons learned about gender and race as they relate to psychological health and traumatic brain injury.

Presentations made at this conference are expected to soon be made publicly available on the Defense Center of Excellence’s website: http://www.dcoe.health.mil/.

Congress passed legislation to reauthorize the Traumatic Brain Injury Act this week! The bill is now ready to be sent on to the President for his signature into law.

On Tuesday, the House of Representatives passed S. 793 – the version of the legislation agreed upon by both chambers (more information below) – by a vote of 392-1. Then, last night, the Senate cleared the bill one last time, marking final passage by Congress.

In addition to authorizing ongoing CDC, NIH, and HRSA TBI programs over the period of FY 2009 through FY 2012, the bill also authorizes a new study by the CDC and the NIH in collaboration with the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs to identify the incidence of brain injury among our nation’s veterans, especially veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan. The purpose of this study is to ensure that national research takes veterans into account and that current information about diagnostic tools and treatments are shared between the civilian and military scientific communities.

Overall, the reauthorization:

-Extends the authorization of such sums as may be necessary for the CDC research, public education, and state registry programs; NIH research; and HRSA programs through 2012.

-Establishes several new studies, including a study through the CDC and NIH to determine the incidence and prevalence of traumatic brain injury, identify common therapeutic interventions, and develop rehabilitation guidelines.

-Establishes a CDC/NIH study to identify the best methods of coordinating prevalence data, in order to ensure that national research takes into account the incidence of brain injuries among our nation’s veterans and that current information about diagnostic tools and treatments are shared.

-Amends the HRSA demonstration projection program such that American Indian consortia can apply for funding, that the projects are redefined to improve access to rehabilitation, and the grants are limited to 3 years.

-Requires the Administrator of HRSA and the ADA Commissioner to coordinate data collection regarding protection and advocacy. It stipulates that, in any year where $6 million is appropriated for the HRSA protection and advocacy services program, 2% is used for a grant providing for training and technical assistance to protection and advocacy systems.

Passage of TBI Act reauthorization has been the number one legislative priority of BIAA in 2008, and much behind-the-scenes work with Members of Congress and their staff has occurred in recent weeks and months. In addition, BIAA grassroots advocates played an essential role in moving this legislation and ensuring that Congress passed it THIS YEAR, so a huge THANK YOU to all of you who contacted your Representatives and otherwise worked to ensure the progress of this key legislation.

Since the President has not threatened to veto this bill, BIAA is not asking advocates to contact the President at this time. Instead, BIAA will be asking advocates to craft thank you notes to key legislators in the near future. Of course, if you do feel individually moved to contact the President, you are welcome to do so.

BIAA will continue to closely monitor the progress of the bill as it makes its way to the President’s desk.

President Bush this week approved $3.7 billion in emergency funding for veterans health care which was deemed “contingency” spending in the fiscal 2008 omnibus appropriations bill passed in December.

This represents another significant step to improve health care for returning service members and veterans.

As a result of this additional funding, the Department of Veterans Affairs’ funding for fiscal 2008 totals $87.6 billion – $8 billion more than was provided in fiscal 2007.

Web Posted: 05/07/2006 12:00 AM CDT

San Antonio Express-News
Phone numbers are in area code 210 unless otherwise indicated.)

ALCOHOL and DRUG ABUSE
Alcoholics Anonymous 24-hour phone line and meeting guide. 828-6235.

Narconon Arrowhead non-profit organization dedicated to treating drug and alcohol addictions. Offers free assessments and referrals. (800) 468-6933 or www.stopaddiction.com

Narconon Nonprofit organization to help people with drug addictions. 1-800-556-8885.

Winners’ Club Alcoholics Anonymous five meetings per day. Spanish meetings 8 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Winners’ Club Al-Anon and Alateen Meetings 7 p.m. Wednesdays and noon Thursdays. All meet at 5723 Kenwick (Bandera and Loop 410). 680-5496.

Lambda AA Gay and Lesbian alcoholics. 8:15 p.m. nightly Sundays through Saturdays; noon Sundays and a women-only group meets 6:30 p.m. Sundays, Madison Square Presbyterian Church, Annex Bldg., Room 4, third floor, 319 Camden at Lexington. 979-5939.

Alcoholics Anonymous Young and Golden Years 8 p.m. Mondays, St. Brigid’s Catholic Church. Free meetings: 12-step, open discussion and speakers. 521-4392.

San Antonio Al-Anon Information Service, P.O. Box 701436, San Antonio, Texas 78270 Literature and information on the Al-Anon, Alateen and Al-Anon Adult Children of Alcoholics programs. For meetings in San Antonio and surrounding areas, go to www.texas-al-anon.org, click on meetings and scroll down to South Texas. For more information call 829-1392 (1-888-829-1312 for out-of-town calls) or e-mail saais@yahoo.com.

Al-Anon 11 a.m. Mondays, 102 Thames. 12-step meetings. Weekly meetings for Alateen; Adult Children of Alcoholics and pre-Alateen. Call for times. 342-3063. Al-Anon 7 p.m. Thursdays, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Education Bldg. Discussion/Step study. Childcare. Handicapped accessible. Smoke-free environment. 684-0845 or e-mail jplit@earthlink.net Al-Anon 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Methodist Specialty and Transplant Hospital, 8026 Floyd Curl Drive, 6th floor, Family Room. 829-1392 or 641-6895.

Family Service Association: Families and Schools together (FAST) Strengthens family relationships and improves parent and school relations. Takes place in elementary schools and Head Start Centers. 657-4748; Youth Against Gang Activity (YAGA) Teen directed groups in middle and high schools deliver anti-drug and anti-violence messages. 226-4156; Counseling for individuals, couples, family and groups at several locations for a sliding scale fee. 226-3391; Employee Assistance Program allows employees to seek assistance for themselves or family members in a confidential manner. 226-3391.

San Antonio Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse provides alcohol/drug assessment and referral services, education programs, employee assistance program, family interventions, adolescent tobacco awareness and cessation program and minor in possession program. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday by appointment. 24-hour help line. 225-4741.

Palmer Drug Abuse Program open, noon-6:30 p.m. Mon-Fri., Call for support group meetings; social activities. Four locations: 10226 Ironside, 697-9766; 379 Petaluma, 927-4644; 1204 Castroville Rd, 438-9370 (these three locations for adolescents and family members); and 702 Cincinnati (for adults), 735-1058.

Project SAVE (Substance Abuse Versus Empowerment) HIV Outreach; Free and confidential TB, HIV and other STD testing; Substance Abuse Assessment and Referral Services. 805-8106.

Substance Abuse Intervention Program (SAIP) Free services for high risk youth 10 to 17 years and their families to avert negative environmental conditions and reduce the cycle of violence. 475-9426.

Narcotics Anonymous Weekly meetings – various times and locations. Call 24-hour hot line and meeting guide: 434-0665 or (800) 221-9091 or write 2186 Jackson Keller & PMBv 335, San Antonio TX 78213.

Harris Employee Assistance & ADHD Counseling Center: Alcohol, Tobacco and other drugs Outpatient Education and Awareness classes Traditional and secular modality; Impaired Professionals and/or Executives Special confidential program; Safety Sensitive and Drug Free Workplace Issues. All by appointment only, noon Mondays through Saturdays, 4035 Naco-Perrin Blvd. suite 104. 637-5994.

Substance Abuse Professional Services (SAP): Assessments, recommendations, compliance monitoring and consulting to comply with DOT and DFW alcohol and drug testing regulations. Also assessments and counseling for non-DOT substance abuse issues. Interventions for Substance Abusers: Process of confronting the abuser with love and the expectation of recovery, with professional guidance, alcohol/drug education and rehearsal for concerned others in person or by teleconference. Cliff Melton, 524-8151 or e-mail cliffs3@earthlink.net.

Alcohol and Drug Abuse Addiction Recovery Group 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, the Connection Center, Inc. Nancy 344-9255.

12-Step Sunday School Class 9:45 a.m. Sundays, Northwest Hills United Methodist Church, Pastor’s office. For anyone with an addictive problem. 681-3751.

Healing Waters 6 p.m. Sundays, North Central Baptist Hospital, Garrett Room. Recovery group for the wounded, weary, worried and wandering, uses the 12-step process as a spiritual discipline with an emphasis on Christ-centered recovery. Judy, 490-7452 or e-mail jsenter@satx.rr.com

BEHAVIORAL DISORDERS

Food and Diet

Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center provides referrals to eating disorder practitioners (free), treatment facilities and support groups and offer information to the public about the treatment and prevention of eating disorders. Scholarships available. 858-792-7463 or visit web site http://edreferral.comv

Anorexia Nervos & Bulimia Self-Help Group 6-7 p.m. Wednesdays, North Central Baptist Hospita, 520 Madison Oak Drive, lower level, next to dining room no. 1 area). Shelley Regan Katz, 493-7788.

Overeaters Anonymous Fellowship of men and women recovering from compulsive eating. No fees, dues or weigh-ins. Daily and Evening meetings. Newcomers meet 7-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays and 10-11 a.m. second Saturdays, Church of Reconciliation, 8900 Starcrest. Newcomers welcome at all meetings. San Antonio OA information line, 492-5400. For more information visit Web sites www.OAinSA.org or overeatersanonymous.org.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), no. TX 1630 9:30 a.m. Mondays, Woodlake Baptist Church, 6980 Woodlake Club Drive. (Weigh-in 9 a.m.) Call 658-2958. TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), Chapter 597 6:15 p.m. Mondays, Lovera Baptist Church. Lala Brown, 696-8425 or 826-4180. TOPS No. 378 9 a.m. Wednesdays, Commander’s House. Shirley Trew, 534-2351. TOPS No. 1235 weigh-in 6:30 p.m., meeting 7 p.m. Thursdays, Bethany United Methodist Church, Community Center Bldg. 590-7460 or 661-4888. TOPS No. 1734 9:45 a.m. weigh-in, 10:30 a.m. meeting Saturdays, Heritage Free Methodist Church, 915 Hunt Lane.

Food Addicts In Recovery Anonymous 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Northeast Baptist Hospital, 8811 Village Drive, Classroom 2. 561-1809. For individuals recovering from addictive eating and other eating disorders. Program based on the 12-steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Free. Marilou, 561-1809.

Other

Depression Group for Attorneys New group being planned for attorneys only. The Connection Center. Cliff Melton, 524-8151. Employee Assistance Services: Assessment, individual, couple and group counseling for issues of mental health, marital/family, stress, alcohol/drug and gambling, relational and coping skill enhancement. Also consulting for performance and behavior management, regulation compliance, crisis management, CISD, grief/loss and training. Cliff Melton, 524-8151 or e-mail cliffs3@earthlink.net. Professionals’ Assistance Program: Assessment and counseling services for addictions, mental health, relationship and occupational issues tailored to the needs of health care and other professionals, self referred or mandated by licensing boards. Connection Center, 524-8151 or www.connectioncenter.net.

Harris Employee Assistance & ADHD Counseling Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder assessments for Children and Adults; Behavior Management Training for ADHD and Bipolar Disorder; Compulsive Gambling and/or Pathological Gambling Assessments and Referrals daily by appointmen. GAMANON Support Group noon Saturdays for family members of gamblers. 4035 Naco-Perrin Blvd., Suite 104. 637-5994.

Anger Resolution Group and individual sessions. 10-step approach to resolving destructive anger problems. Parenting the Difficult Child seminars and counseling. Child hyperactivity and impulsivity management. Adult-Parent-Child consultation. 10615 Perrin-Beitel Road, Suite 702. Vibeke Mendonca, 656-3400.

Anger Solutions Center small group and one-on-one sessions for anger management clients, as well as seminars/workshops for other groups. Fees vary. 900 N.E. Loop 410, Suite D307. 804-0085 and 503 San Pedro, 299-4540 or Web site www.angermanagementnow.org.

National Alliance for the Mentally Ill San Antonio (NAMI): NAMI San Antonio Family Support Groups 6-8 p.m. every other Tuesday for Spanish speaking, Center for Health care Services, 806 S. Zarzamora. Lupe or Roger Morin, 436-8018; 7-8 p.m. last Wednesdays, Ruble Center, 419 E. Magnolia Avenue, 734-3349; 10-11:30 a.m. first Saturdays, San Antonio State Hospital, Family Resource Center, 6711 S. New Braunfels Ave. Minerva Dupart, 531-7799; 10 a.m. – noon second Saturdays, University United Methodist Church. Nancy Andres, 696-1033; 10-11:30 a.m. last Saturdays Spanish speaking, San Antonio State Hospital, Family Resource Center, Lupita Hernandez, 735-0337. NAMI-CARE Peer Support Groups The Client Support group is for consumers who suffer from a major mental illness, open to all. 7-8:30 p.m. last Wednesdays, Ruble Center, 419 E. Magnolia Avenue. Sherron Cantu, 737-7767; and 6-8 p.m. every other Tuesday, 806 S. Zarzamora. Lupe Morin, 436-8018.

NIX Behavioral Health Services Offers specialized in-patient, out-patient and urgent care treatment for emotionally and behaviorally troubled geriatrics, adults, adolescents and children. 4330 Vance Jackson Road. 341-2633.

Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) of San Antonio Weekly meetings to help those engaged in, who wish to stop, harmful and addictive sexual behaviors. Local hotline, 641-8156; website, www.saa-recovery.org; or e-mail, info@saa-recovery.org

Family Service Association: Counseling (including anger management and sex abuse treatment) for individuals, couples, families and groups at several locations on a sliding scale fee. 226-3391; Employee Assistance Program for employees seeking assistance for themselves of family members in a completely confidential manner. 226-3391; Guardianship Program Legal guardianship services for elderly or other adults with disabilities. 657-4748.

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (formerly the Depressive and Manic-Depressive Association), of San Antonio 7-9 p.m. Mondays, Methodist Specialty and Transplant Hospital, Medical Center. Sue, 682-2746.

DBSA (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance) Southeast San Antonio Family Christian 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays, 210 S. Grimes St. 683-8592; DBSA Christian Community II 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, 5802 S. Presa St. 824-1602; DBSA Christian Community I 7-9 p.m. Thursdays, Castle Hills First Baptist Church, Grace Chapel Building, 2220 N.W. Military Highway. 824-1602. All three groups are free faith-based Depression and Bipolar support groups.

GAM-ANON 6:30 p.m. Mondays, Laurel Heights United Methodist Church, 227 W. Woodlawn Ave., Room 308. Jack H., 656-8517 or 637-5994. Gamblers Anonymous, San Antonio chapter 6:30 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays. Laurel Heights United Methodist Church, 227 W. Woodlawn Ave., Room 309. Earl B. 337-7850.

Alliance for Mental Health Consumers Rights Advocacy group for persons with mental illness. 6 p.m. first Thursdays, Travis Park United Methodist Church, Room 210. 979-8456.

Recovery Inc. 10 a.m. –noon Tuesdays, Incarnate Word Retirement Community, 4707 Broadway, in the Garden Room; and 7 p.m. Wednesdays, Ecumenical Center for Religion and Health, 8310 Ewing Halsell, in the library. Free. For persons with severe anxiety, panic, depression and phobias. 492-0756 or 681-5435.

Smokers Anonymous 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Trinity United Methodist Church, 6800 Wurzbach. 680-8528.

Nicotine Anonymous 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Education Bldg. Discussion group. Handicapped accessible. 684-0845 or e-mail jplit@earthlink.net

SLAA 12 Step Support Group 7 p.m. Thursdays, Creekview Garden offices, 8600 Wurzbach, Bldg. 70 (the Hacienda). Free meetings for women only, who are struggling with sexual compulsion and/or emotional dependency.

Solidarity Peer-Support Group 10:30 a.m. first and third Saturdays, Travis Park United Methodist Church. For individuals with mental illness. 979-8456.

Emotions Anonymous 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Unity Church, 1723 Lawndale. 403-3899 or 575-8548. 12-step support for emotional recovery.

CAREGIVERS

Family Service Association: Connections Elder Care Resource and Referral provides consultation, training and referral services on elder care and aging issues. 225-0276; Personal Assistance Services Homemaker services and personal care to the elderly on a sliding scale fee. 657-4748; Smart Start for Teachers provides training and technical assistance to childcare and early childhood programs. 225-0276.

CAPS (Children of Aging Parents) Support Group Information, referrals and support for children caring for elderly parents. For nearest location, call 288-2724, 359-7687 or 946-4994 or attend meetings at 6:15 p.m. first Thursdays, Jewish Family & Children’s Services. Jim Vaughn, 288-2724; 6:15 p.m. second Thursdays, Helotes Counseling Center, 13438 Bandera Rd. Sylvia Moore, 695-1788; 6 p.m. second and fourth Wednesdays, Wesley Community Center, 1406 Fitch St. Bilingual Facilitator Marie Bazan, 359-7687; or 6:15 p.m. fourth Thursdays, Hearthstone Assisted Living, 6849 Crestway. Jim Vaughan, 946-4994.

CAPS (Children of Aging Parents) Support Group Information, resources and support services for those caring for elderly loved ones. 6:30 p.m. third Tuesdays, Kingsley Place Medical Center Assisted Living, 9000 Floyd Curl Drive. 697-0772.

Alzheimer’s or Dementia Caregivers Support First Wednesdays, Homewood Residence, 1207 Jackson Keller, Bldg. 2. 375-8132. Alzheimer’s Resource Group 10 a.m. Saturdays. For caregivers and family. 530-5075.

Care Givers Information and Fellowship Group 7 p.m. first Thursdays, Northwest Community Evangelical Free Church, room 208. For people ministering to the senior citizens in their lives. 680-3041.

FAMILY ISSUES

Parenting

La Leche League of San Antonio Free breastfeeding support for women who want to breastfeed their babies. Local chapters meet monthly. Help-line (24 hours): 341-9669.

Catholic Charities, Adolescent Pregnancy Program free parenting training, childbirth education and teen fathers support groups. 475-9011 or 222-1294.

Family Service Association: Early on Kindergarten Readiness Project promotes early childhood education within eight school districts and two childcare programs. 822-8101; Family Forward Eight or 15 week parenting education classes to strengthen skills. 657-4748; Families and Schools Together (FAST) takes place in elementary schools and Head Start Centers to strengthen family relationships and improve parent and school relation. 657-4748; Homemaking, Organizing and Parent Effectiveness Services (HOPES) provides in home training and case management for new parents. 299-4494; Parents as Teachers Early childhood parenting education and family support program for parents. 299-4494; Smart Start Connections Child Care Resource Referral provides consultation, training and referral services on childcare and early childhood education issues to parents, service providers, the community and employers in Bexar and other rural counties. 225-0276.

The Fourteen Percenter For sample newsletter for non-custodial parents, send self-addressed stamped envelope to: The Fourteen Percenter, 2919 N. Main Avenue, San Antonio, Texas 78212-2945 or e-mail donald.mathis@trinity.edu

The Gladney Center Non-profit adoption agency. Texas and international adoptions. Counseling for birth mothers. For information, call (800) 687-3097.

Harris Employee Assistance & ADHD Counseling Center: Parenting Educational Skills Training Includes assessments for ADHD, Conduct Disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder; Helping Children Cope With Divorce divorce adjustment training; Helping Children and Families Cope with Bullying. All are daily by appointment. Youth Tobacco Awareness Classes, 6:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays. 4035 Naco Perrin Blvd., Suite 104. 637-5994.

Living in Fellowship Together (LiFT) New support group meeting monthly for single mothers. Karen Frisby, 479-1477, ext. 1040 or e-mail Karenf@concordia-satx.com

MELD Special Weekly meetings throughout San Antonio focus on the impact of an illness or disability on childrearing and family life. 9:45-11:45 a.m. Mondays; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Discussions geared toward concerns faced by parents. Free childcare during meetings. Stephanie Chambless, 434-1475 or e-mail schambless@mhm.org.

Power Parenting Evening and Saturday classes provide parent, child and family resources. Hourly fees. For topics or other information, 862-3613.

MOMS Club Anderson Loop North 10 a.m. first Mondays, Independence Hill location. Michelle Noel, 497-5586.

MOMS Club Central/Downtown 10 a.m. first Thursdays, Northridge Park Baptist Church. Karen, 394-8682.

North Central MOMS Club 10 a.m. First Thursdays, St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, 5310 Stahl Road. Laurin Hall, 545-0083 or laurinhall@satx.rr.com.

MOMS Club of San Antonio Northeast 9:45-11:30 a.m. first Tuesdays, St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church. For Stay at Home Moms and their children. Dawn, 566-3549.

MOMS Club Northwest 10 a.m. first Mondays, Oxford United Methodist Church. Susan, 682-0803.

MOMS Club of San Antonio – Southwest 9:45 a.m. first Mondays, Leon Valley Baptist Church. Erica, 679-8649 or Sarah, 543-8982 or e-mail macsmom1@sbcglobal.net. MOMS Club of San Antonio – Thousand Oaks chapter 10 a.m. fourth Mondays, Abiding Presence Lutheran Church. Alisa, 495-1432. MOMS Club of San Antonio – West 10 a.m. first Mondays, Northwest Hills United Methodist Church, 7575 Tezel Road. Tamara Cline, 523-7174.

Father’s Support Group 6:30-8 p.m. Mondays, Kids Exchange, 334 W. Mistletoe. For divorced fathers. Mary Bullock, 733-3349. Web site is www.sakidsexchange.com.

Mexican American Unity Council, Child and Family Unit 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays, 2300 W. Commerce Street, suite 106. Family counseling, couple/marital counseling, social and coping skills training; 5:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday parenting classes in English for single parents and couples. Spanish parenting classes, 12:30 p.m. Mondays. 978-0505.

Grandparent/Kinship Care Program. Support groups sponsored by the Bexar Area Agency on Aging for grandparents or older relatives raising children under 18 years. For information about transportation or childcare, call Nellie Garay, 362-5271. North East ISD group 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. second Mondays, West Avenue Community Center, West Avenue Apartments, 3747 West Ave. Deborah Gloria, 344-1204; Northside ISD group 7-8 p.m. second Mondays, Sul Ross Middle School, Library, 3630 Callaghan Road. Nellie Garay, 362-271; Harlandale ISD groups: English 8:30-9:30 a.m. and Spanish 9:30-10:30 a.m. second Wednesdays, Harlandale ISD Pupil Personnel Bldg., 7926 S. Flores St. Wilma Gibson, 977-1430; San Antonio ISD groups 9-11 a.m. second Thursdays, Sam Houston High School, Library, 4635 E. Houston St. and 10 a.m. to noon second Fridays, Highland High School Auditorium, 3118 Elgin Ave. Nellie Garay, 362-5271; Edgewood ISD group 8:30-10:30 a.m. every other Friday, Gardendale Elementary School, Counseling Activity Room, 1731 Dahlgreen Road. Angela Potenza, 444-8162.

Grandparents Parenting Their Grandchildren 6-7:15 p.m. Wednesdays, Trinity Baptist Counseling Center, 319 E. Mulberry. $5 per group. 738-7780.

Family Enhancement Classes 6 p.m. Tuesday and 7 p.m. Wednesdays, Youth Alternatives Counseling Center. Free classes for parents and children. 340-7971.

Methodist Children’s Home Foster Care Agency Meetings for prospective foster parents (couples or single adults) for children temporarily in crisis. 6 p.m. first Tuesdays, Methodist children’s Home office, 6800 Park Ten Blvd., suite 230 East, off Interstate 10 between Vance Jackson and Crossroads Mall. Reservations: 733-3904 or 1-866-532-4453.

Lighthouse Family Network Foster Parent Training: Primary Training session, 9:30 a.m. and Foster Parent Support Training session, noon. Both sessions second Tuesdays, at Lighthouse Family Network office, 9310 Broadway, Bldg. 2 suite 202. (254) 947-3152 or (888) 908-1212 or e-mail Karen@LFNetwork.org.

Attachment Parenting International (API) 11 a.m. third Tuesdays, St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, Fellowship Hall, 5310 Stahl Road; 10 a.m. first Thursdays, H-E-B Central Market, community room, 4821 Broadway. Visit www.attachmentparenting.org or call Diana, 534-5255.

Parents Without Partners Inc., Alamo chapter 309 7 p.m. orientations, first and third Tuesdays, Crossroads Mall, Food Court in front of the theater; and first and third Thursdays, Rolling Oaks Mall, Food Court. 226-1983.

Parents of Bipolar Children Support Group 1-2:30 p.m. Wednesdays, St. Peter-St. Joseph’s Counseling Center, 919 Mission Road. Michon Tucker, 533-6545.

Moms In Touch International nondenominational group of mothers meet weekly for one hour to pray for their children and the schools they attend, kindergarten through college. Prayer Group for Marshall High School students meets 1 p.m. Wednesdays during school year. Patty Dyer, 680-1889. For information on other San Antonio MIT school prayer groups call Kathy Wirth, 402-3053.

H.E.A.L.D. (Help for families who have children who are Emotionally And/or Learning Disabled) 7 p.m. third Wednesdays Sept.-May for parent support, resources and advocacy. Christine Mendez, 735-4682.

Resolve of South Texas, the National Infertility Association 7 p.m. third Wednesdays, North Central Baptist Hospital, dining room 2. Infertility education advocacy group. Small fee for nonmembers. 967-6771. Web site: http://members.aol.com/resolvestx

Young Moms Connection, 6 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays, University United Methodist Church, 5084 De Zavala at Vance Jackson. Group focuses on issues and obstacles facing young mothers. Dinner provided for moms and childcare available with advance reservation. 696-1033.

Transplants For Children Parent Support Group 6:30 p.m. fourth Thursdays for parents of children who need or have had a tissue or organ transplant. Andrea Tejeda, 949-1212.

Parents of Bi-Polar Children Support Group 7 p.m. first Thursdays, University United Methodist Church, 5084 De Zavala Road, Room 2027. Carol, 867-9806 or Cindy, 496-3370.

Child Protective Services 7 p.m. third Thursdays, 3635 S.E. Military Drive. For prospective foster and adoptive families. Also first Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. 337-3117.

TOUGHLOVE 7 p.m. Thursdays, Northeast Methodist Hospital, 12412 Judson Road, community health center, next to cafeteria. Self-help program for parents of troubled teens. $30 for materials and $5 per week per family for regular meetings. (210) 647-8544 or (800) 333-1069.

San Antonio Mothers of Multiples 7:15 p.m. second Thursdays, University United Methodist Church, 5084 De Zavala. Expectant mothers of multiples welcome. Call 490-4848 or www.saamom.com.

Parenting Coping Skills Group 10-11:30 a.m. Saturdays, Innovative Concepts, 1803 W. Gramercy Place, Suite 150. Learn techniques to better cope with teenagers. Odelia or Yajaira, 805-0915.

Families for Russian and Ukrainian Adoption (including neighboring countries), San Antonio chapter Third Saturdays. Adoptive support group for families who are interested in adopting or have adopted from eastern European countries. Sue Hall, 829-4428 or spohall@aol.com

Relationships

Anger Management Program (12 weeks for men and women) and Family Violence Program (12 weeks for men) Volunteers and court-referred clients meet Mondays-Saturdays. Buryle Kilday, 654-0223.

Counseling and Life-skills programs for children ages 6 to 17 and their parents. Communicating Effectively; Managing Your Anger; Parenting That Works; How To Be Your Child’s Advocate; Danger Zones: dating violence, gang activity and substance abuse. Free counseling by M.A. level therapists 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Call for life-skills schedule. Counseling Center, 3103 West Avenue, 340-7971.

Family Service Association: Counseling for individuals, couples, families and groups at various locations on a sliding scale fee. 226-3391; KidShare provides a neutral environment where child exchanges can occur and parent child relationships can be monitored. 657-4748.

Individual, Couples and Family Counseling, Appointments available six days a week and evenings, St. Mary’s University, Family Life Center, One Camino Santa Maria. Low cost. 436-3133 or e-mail beckywhetstone@satx.rr.com.; Summer 2006 Support Groups: Unhappily Married Therapeutic Groups Confidential group to discuss and explore marital discontentment, noon to 2 p.m. first and third Tuesdays and 7-9 p.m. first and third Wednesdays; Self Esteem Therapeutic Group For those whose life isn’t working the way they want it to, noon to 2 p.m. second and fourth Tuesdays and 7-9 p.m. second and fourth Wednesdays; Relationship Loss Therapeutic Group For those experiencing the recent loss of any type of relationship, noon to 2 p.m. first and third Saturdays. All Summer groups $25 per person, per session. Becky Whetstone, 771-5939 or www.doctorbecky.com.

KIDS Exchange provide services for families in divorce situations including supervised visitations, neutral exchanges, cooperative parenting, K.I.D.S. (Kids in Divorce Situations) seminar. Fees vary. 334 W. Mistletoe. 733-3349.

Moxie Counseling and Consulting. Individual, family and couple/marital counseling addresses challenges of divorce, stress, grief/loss, parenting, blended family, co-parenting, career, depression, survivors of abuse, women’s issues and more. Sonya House, 865-1913.

Harris Employee Assistance & ADHD Counseling Center: Anger Management and Conflict Resolution (court mandated and personal growth and development); Domestic Violence/Battering Intervention (court mandated training); Couples and Family Counseling, including Infidelity and Affairs Detection and Prevention. All are by appointment. 4035 Naco-Perrin Blvd., suite 104. 637-5994.

Domestic Violence Support 6:30 p.m. Mondays. A women’s support group. Call for other times. Family Violence Prevention Services: 930-3669.

Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) 12-step recovery program to develop healthy relationships. Information line: 637-8349 or Web site www.codependents.org. Meetings: 7:15 p.m. Tuesdays, First Unitarian Universalist Church, 7150 Interstate 10 W., Thomas Jefferson Room. Bill, 366-4770. Noon Fridays, Trinity United Methodist Church. James, 675-1034.

Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) for Women 12-step recovery program to develop healthy relationships. 11 a.m. Saturdays, Unity Church of San Antonio. 659-6532.

Texas Inmate Families Association 7 p.m. second Tuesdays, St. Vincent de Paul Society. For families with loved ones who are incarcerated; working with criminal justice agencies to help resolve issues. 491-6564 or web site www.tifa.org.

Divorce Recovery Sharing Group 7-8:30 p.m. Mondays, St. Matthew Catholic Church. For anyone dealing with the pain/loss of separation and divorce. 478-5005.

Divorce Recovery Group Therapy for those dealing with relationship loss and personal growth through the traumatic transition experience of divorce. 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays, Trinity Baptist Counseling Center, 319 E. Mulberry. $10 weekly. 738-7780.

Divorce Adjustment Seminar 6:30-8:30 p.m. Sundays, Alamo Heights United Methodist Church, Room W104. A new six-week series starts every eight weeks, except during holidays. Childcare available. Jerry Townsend, 378-6464 or Rev. Joan Ahrens, 614-4945.

ILLNESS or DISABILITY

AIDS

AIDS Relief Ministry Services Support group for youth who are infected and/or affected by HIV/AIDS. Elisa Romero, 472-3597 (with ARMS) or David Padilla, 212-2266 (with BEAT-AIDS).

San Antonio AIDS Foundation Call for various support groups. 225-4715.

Anonymous HIV Counseling and Testing 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday- Thursday, Community Clinic. By donation. 821-5522.

Cancer

Alamo Breast Cancer Foundation 24-hour helpline staffed by trained volunteers offering information and support. 692-9535.

Coping with Breast Cancer for USAA employees, retirees and dependents. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. last Thursdays, USAA main clinic. Bridget Jourdan or Cecily Adger, 498-1385.

Reach to Recovery Volunteers who have been treated for breast cancer visit patients before and after surgery. Physician referral required. American Cancer Society, Patient Services Department, 614-4211.

Cancer Survivors Network Visitation Volunteers who have been treated for prostate cancer visit patients and their families to offer support and education. Contact the American Cancer Society, Patient Services Department, 614-4211.

American Cancer Society Dialogue Program helps patients, families and friends better understand and learn to live with cancer. 4:30-5:30 p.m. second and fourth Mondays, Jewish Family & Children Service, 12500 N.W. Military #2500. Lynn Stahl, 302-6960; 7:30 p.m. fourth Mondays, St. Matthew’s Catholic Church. Norma Willet, 561-0581; 6:30 p.m. last Tuesdays, El Carmen Wellness Center No. 1, 18555 Leal Road. Sister Constance Hummel or Sister Aileen Marek, 627-9600; Bilingual Support Group 11 a.m. Thursdays, University Health Center – Downtown, 527 N. Leona. Carmen Boudreau, 358-3620; 10-11:30 a.m. third Sundays, St. Philip of Jesus/UIW Health Ministry, 130 Bank St. Jean Deliganis, 224-7122.

Look GoodFeel Better 9-11 a.m. last Mondays, American Cancer Society. Program for women undergoing cancer treatments to help them look and feel more comfortable with changes in appearance. 614-4211.

USTOO Prostate Cancer Support Group, Alamo chapter 5:30 p.m. first Mondays (second Monday if the first Monday falls on a holiday), Ecumenical Center for Religion and Health, 8310 Ewing Halsell. 344-5201.

Leukemia Society Support Group 6-7:30 p.m. second Mondays, Jewish Community Center, 12500 N.W. Military Hwy. 377-1775.

Alamo Ovarian Cancer Alliance 6:30-7:30 p.m. first and third Tuesdays, Methodist Healthcare System, 8109 Fredericksburg Rd. at Datapoint, first floor, Conference Room C. Free, for women survivors of all gynecological cancers. Linda Tarver, 824-3496.

Keep Abreast Breast Cancer Support Group 7p.m., first Mondays, Underthings, 8055 West Ave, No. 106. 344-8983.

United Ostomy Association offers support before and after colostomy, urostomy and ileostomy surgery. San Antonio chapter 7:30 p.m. last Mondays, American Cancer Society, 8115 Datapoint Drive. 614- 4211 or (800) ACS-2345 or www.cancer.org Northeast San Antonio Group 3 p.m. third Sundays, Northeast Methodist Hospital, 12412 Judson Rd. Bill Beckman, 666-3925. Kerrville Ostomy Support Group 5 p.m. second Wednesdays, Peterson Ambulatory Care Center, 230 Cully Dr., Kerrville. Dorothy Lee, (830) 257-4090.

S.O.S. – Survivors Offering Support 6:30 p.m. second Tuesdays, Women’s Imaging Center, Methodist Plaza, 4499 Medical Drive and 6:30 p.m. first Thursdays, Northeast Methodist Plaza, Breast Care Center, 12709 Toepperwein, suite 106. For newly diagnosed and breast cancer survivors and family members. Register, 575-4511.

Multiple Myeloma Support Group, 6-7:30 p.m. second Wednesdays. 377-1775.

Cancer Therapy & Research Center (CTRC) Support Groups: Make Today Count II noon first and third Wednesdays, CTRC – Santa Rosa Hospital Downtown, Houston Street at San Saba, for cancer patients and their loved ones; I count too 6 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays, 7979 Wurzbach at Floyd Curl. For children ages 5 to 17 whose family members have cancer; Grupo de Apoyo 10 a.m. Thursdays, 7979 Wurzbach at Floyd Curl, first floor library, for Spanish speaking patients and their loved ones; Make Today Count 6 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays, 7979 Wurzbach at Floyd Curl, first floor library, for cancer patients and their loved ones. All groups are free of charge and no registration necessary. Cleo B. Kukey, 616-5597.

Woman to Woman Warrior Breast Cancer/Lymphedema Support Group 5:30 p.m third Thursdays, Woman to Woman Health Boutique, 5280 Medical Drive, suite 105. Jessie Philips, 615-6606.

San Antonio Lost Chord Club 2 p.m. third Sundays, American Cancer Society. Laryngectomees and their families. 614-4211.

Diabetes

Texas Diabetes Institute groups: Diabetes Education Classes 9 a.m. Monday through Friday, TDI Education Classrooms, second floor, 701 S. Zarzamora. 358-7100; TDI Diabetes Support Group 9 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays, University Center for Community Health, TDI, Diabetes Education Department, 2nd floor, 701 S. Zarzamora. 358-7100; TDI Amputee Support Group 9 a.m. third Tuesdays, TDI Podiatry Clinic, second floor, 701 S. Zarzamora. 358-7500; TDI Education Cooking Classes Monthly, TDI Education Demo Kitchen, 2nd floor. $2 per class. 358-7117 or 358-7100.

Diabetes Support Group Free. 11 a.m. third Tuesdays, HealthLink Fitness and Wellness Center, 288 Bitters Road at West Avenue, Education Room. 297-9900.

Other

Family Service Association: Counseling on a sliding scale fee and Employee Assistance Program for those afflicted with AIDS, Cancer, Diabetes or other illnesses and their family members. 226-3391.

ADHD for Adults 6 p.m. Tuesdays, Methodist Specialty and Transplant Hospital, 8026 Floyd Curl Drive, Doctors’ Dining Room. 434-0665.

Harris Assisatance & ADHD Counseling Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Assessments for Children and Adults; Behavior Management and Training for ADHD and Bipolar Disorders. All by appointment only. 4035 Naco-Perrin Blvd., suite 104. 637-5994.

Alzheimer’s Association, STAR CHAPTER – San Antonio Regional Office support groups: All free and open to families and loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease. Early Stage Support Group noon second Mondays, by reservation only at the Association office, 7400 Louis Pasteur Drive. For newly diagnosed patients who meet eligibility requirements. 822-6449; Orientation 5:30 p.m. third Tuesdays, Association office, 7400 Louis Pasteur Dr., Suite 200, for families and loved ones of newly diagnosed Alzheier’s patients. 822-6449. Boerne 6:30 p.m. third Thursdays, Town & Country Manor, 625 N. Main Street, Boerne. 822-6449 or 1-800-272-3900. Floresville 6 p.m. first Wednesdays, Frank M. Tejeda State Veterans Home, 200 Veterans Drive, Floresville. 822-6449 or 1-800-272-3900.

Helotes 6:30 p.m. third Tuesdays, Helotes Hills United Methodist Church. 822-6449 or 1-800-272-3900. Kerrville 1:30 p.m. second Wednesdays, First United Methodist Church, 321 Thompson Drive, Kerrville. (830) 896-1244. Laredo 7 p.m. first Tuesdays, Laredo medical Center, Laredo. 822-6449 or 1-800-272-3900. Lytle 10 a.m. third Thursdays, St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, Activities Hall, 14831 Main St., Lytle. New Braunfels 3:30-5 p.m. third Tuesdays, Hope Hospice, 611 N. Walnut, New Braunfels. 822-6449 or 1-800-272-3900. North Central 6:30 p.m. second Tuesdays, the Forum at Lincoln Heights, 311 Nottingham West; 7 p.m. second Thursdays, the Haven in Stone Oak, 511 Knights Cross Drive. Free adult care provided. 822-6449 or 404-2687. Northeast 6:30 p.m. second Tuesdays, Alterra Claire Bridge, 14595 Nacogdoches Road. 822-6449; 4:30 p.m. third Wednesdays, TRISUN Care Center Windcrest, 8800 Fourwinds. Limited free daycare with reservations, 656-7800, ext. 250; and 3 p.m. fourth Sundays, Esplanade Gardens, 10790 Toepperwein, Converse. Limited free daycare with reservations, 566-7600.
Northwest 6 p.m. third Tuesdays, Seniors 2000, 4396 Callaghan Road. 822-6449; 6:30 p.m. first Wednesdays, Arden Courts, 15290 Huebner Road. Limited free daycare by reservation, 408-9100; 10 a.m. second Saturdays, Grace Place Northwest, 4306 N.W. Loop 410. 822-6449. Pearsall 4 p.m. third Sundays, Pearsall Nursing & Rehab South, 320 South Ash, Pearsall. 822-6449 or 1-800-272-3900. Schertz 10 a.m. third Saturdays, Autumn Winds Retirement Lodge, 3301 Farm Road 3009, Schertz. Adult Day Care available at no cost. 822-6449. Seguin 1 p.m. last Wednesdays, Guadalupe Nursing Center, 1210 Eastwood Drive, Seguin. 822-6449 or 1-800-272-3900. Southeast 6 p.m. fourth Wednesdays, Seniors 2000, 2364 E. Southcross. 822-6449. Southwest 10 a.m. second Saturdays, Resurrection of the Lord, 7990 W. Military Drive. 822-6449. Universal City 7 p.m. second Wednesdays, Universal City United Methodist Church, 90 Winn Ave., Universal City. 822-6449

HealthLink Support Groups, Baptist HealthLink Fitness and Wellness Center, 288 Bitters Road (at West Ave.) 297-9900: San Antonio Neuropathy Support Group 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. third Mondays. Jim Miller, 545-3697. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) Support Group Second Mondays. Noon even months; 6:30 p.m. odd months. Barbara Acosta, 659-7478. Cardiac Support Group 6-7 p.m., first Tuesdays.225-2647.

San Antonio Lymphedema Support Group Meets every two months. For dates, times and locations call 545-6062 or 822-3830.

Muscular Dystrophy Association Support Groups: Free support for individuals and families affected by any of 40 neuromuscular diseases. Children’s Support Group meets quarterly 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Nellie Reddix Center, classroom, 4711 Sid Katz Drive; Parent Support Group meets quarterly 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Nellie Reddix Center, room C-118, 4711 Sid Katz Drive. Call 650-3181; Teen Support Group meets quarterly 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Nellie Reddix Center, classroom, 4711 Sid Katz Drive.

San Antonio Low Vision Club 9:30-11:30 a.m. third Saturdays, UT Health Science Center Auditorium, 7703 Floyd Curl. Bonnie Truax, 344-1479. San Antonio Lighthouse supported low vision clubs, contact Diana Gutierrez, 533-5195: Southside (Bilingual) Low Vision Club 10-11 a.m. fourth Mondays, St. James de Jardin Apartments, 420 Nunes; Eastside Low Vision Club 2-3:30 p.m. third Mondays, Mt. Zion Sheltering Arms Apartments, 3238 Martin Luther King; Independence Hill Low Vision Club 2-3:30 p.m. third Tuesdays, Independence Hill Retirement Community, 20450 Huebner Road; San Antonio Lighthouse Focus on Seniors Activity Group 9-11 a.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, San Antonio Lighthouse, 2305 Roosevelt; and Air Force Village II Low Vision Club 10-11:30 a.m. last Fridays, Air Force Village II, 5100 John D. Ryan Blvd.

Alamo Area Parkinson’s Support Group 1 p.m. second Mondays, Sunset Ridge Church of Christ, 95 Brees. Parkinson Information Referral Center, 567-6688. Young-onset Parkinson’s Support Group 10 a.m. second Saturdays, New Forest Estates Assisted Living Facility, 5034 New Forest Drive. 567-6688.

Live Wires (Deep Brain Stimulator Support Group) 11 a.m. fourth Saturdays. Call 567-6688 for location.

Methodist Healthcare Postpartum Depression support group 7 p.m. Mondays, Methodist Women’s Center, 8109 Fredericksburg Road. Free to women suffering from postpartum depression. 575-0355.

Genesis Organ Transplants Support Group 12:30 p.m. first Tuesdays, University Hospital. Call for location. Jennifer Lawlace, 358-2769.

Kerrville Arthritis Support Group 1:30 p.m. fourth Tuesdays, Dietert Claim Building, 617 Jefferson Street. (830) 257-3111.

Asperger Syndrome Support Group 6-8 p.m. third Tuesdays, Any Baby Can, 217 Howard St. Support, education, resource and mentorship for families with children diagnosed or in the process of receiving a diagnosis of Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome or Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD). Reservations required for adult attendance and childcare. 227-0170. Web site http://satxaspergersyndromesupportgroup.keepkidshealthy.com/index.html.

Autism Support Group, 6-8 p.m. last Tuesdays, Any Baby Can of San Antonio, 217 Howard. Speaker and networking with parents of children with Autism. Free childcare and dinner by reservation only. 227-0170.

Autism Society of Greater San Antonio Monthly meetings at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, 6914 Wurzbach Road. Meetings scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon May 20 and June 17. Free childcare must be reserved at least 8 days before each meeting. Theresa Diaz, 256-6698 or 535-6208, e-mail txtdiaz@prodigy.net or sanantonioautismsociety@yahoo.com.

Down Syndrome Association of San Antonio 6:30 p.m. first Tuesdays, Coker United Methodist Church, 231 E. North Loop Rd. Support and socialization activities for individuals with Down syndrome of all ages and their families. 349-4372 or visit www.dsasa.org.

Fibromyalgia Support Group 6:30 p.m. second Tuesdays, Neuromuscular Association of San Antonio, 4319 Medical Drive, suite 211. Free. Marie Bumpass or JoAnn Esckilscen, 615-0270.

Tourette Syndrome Association of Texas, San Antonio Support Group 6:30-8 p.m. first Tuesdays, Methodist Healthcare System, 8109 Fredericksburg Road, conference room C. Group for children and adults. Wendy Marcus-Perez, 479-3740 or Web site www.Tourettetexas.org.

Epilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas, San Antonio Support Group 7-8 p.m. second and last Tuesdays, Epilepsy Foundation, 10615 Perrin Beitel, Suite 602 and CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Center for Children and Family, 519 W. Houston St., Fifth floor. No children under 12. Raul Ahumada, 653-5353 or 1-888-608-5353 or e-mail raul@efcst.org. Web site is www.efcst.org.

S.A. Social Lites – Multiple Sclerosis Activities Group 7 p.m. second Thursdays. 302-6920.

Mended Hearts 7 p.m. third Tuesdays, TexSan Heart Hospital. For heart patients, their families and caregivers.

Nuevo Amanecer, Bilingual Psoriasis Support Group 7 p.m. third Tuesdays every other month, Texas Diabetes Institute, 701 S. Zarazmora, room 1018/19. 434-2812.

San Antonio Lupus Support Group 7:30 p.m. third Tuesdays, Metropolitan Methodist Hospital,cafeteria. For Lupus patients, family and friends. 651-9480.

Cross Disability Support Group 2-4 p.m. second Wednesdays for people with a variety of disabilities; Combined Support Group Quarterly meetings 2-4 p.m. second Wednesdays for both people with disabilities and their family and friends; Family Members, Friends and Significant Others Support Group 2-4 p.m. second Fridays (except March, June, Sept. and December) for people who know, work with or love a person with a disability. All three groups meet at San Antonio Independent Living Servies (SAILS), 1028 S. Alamo Street. Sandie or Alice, 281-1878.

Learning Disability Support Group noon to 1 p.m. second Wednesdays, Winston School San Antonio, 8565 Ewing Halsell. Free brown bag lunch and roundtable discussion group. Ron Aaron, 615-6544 or e-mail aaron@winston-sa.org

Warm Springs Resourcenter Support Groups: Muscular Dystrophy Association/ALS, 4:30-5:30 p.m. first Tuesdays. Coley Claybaugh, 650-3181; Post Polio Survivors of San Antonio, 2-4 p.m. second Tuesdays. Ethel Taylor, 696-1710; Multiple Sclerosis Support Goup, noon to 1:30 p.m. second Wednesdays. Sheila Altman, 857-0011; Spinal Cord Injury Support Group 1-3 p.m. second Wednesdays. Shelia Brown, 595-9200; Caregivers Support Group 10-11:15 a.m. Thursdays. Doug Hardy, 595-9200; Alamo Area Stroke Club 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursdays. Fred Reta, 738-0596; Pulmonary Support Group Noon-1 p.m. first Fridays. Jesse Hernandez, 616-0100; Prader-Willi Syndrome Support Group 10 a.m. to noon second Saturdays. Susan Carvajal, 946-6789; Essential Tremor Support Group 10 a.m.-noon third Saturdays. Jim Tremblay, 590-9181; Muscular Dystrophy Association Adult general meeting. 1-3 p.m. third Saturdays. Coley Claybaugh, 650-3181; Myositis Association Support Group 1-3 p.m. third Saturdays on a quarterly basis. Henry Lutz, 340-3875; Adults with Cerebral Palsy, Steve Hammond, 822-4864. Groups meet at Warm Springs Rehabilitation Hospital, 5101 Medical Drive, Resourcenter.

Urology San Antonio’s Women’s Urologic Health Seminar Series 6:30-7:30 p.m. third Wednesdays, 7718 Pasteur Court. Bladder control, interstitial cystitis, female sexual medicine. Abbey Forney, 582-5666.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Association (Lou Gehrig’s disease), South Texas chapter 6:30 p.m. second Wednesdays, Ecumenical Center for Religion & Health. (Park on the Wurzbach side of parking lot). 733-5204.

Alamo Head Injury Association 7 p.m. fourth Wednesdays, Easter Seal Rehabilitation Center. For those who have sustained a brain injury, family and friends. Evelyn Tattini, 614-4323.

San Antonio Group of the Ehlers-Danlos National Foundation 7 p.m. third Wednesdays, Luby’s Restaurant, U.S. Highway 281 and Bitters Road. Meetings to offer mutual support of individuals with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), an inherited connective tissue disorder. Group will also help inform the public and health care professionals about EDS. Call Irene, 392-3880 or Kay, 854-5938.

Stroke Survivors Support Group 10 a.m. first and third Thursdays, Luby’s at Huebner and Floyd Curl Drive. Christy, 691-0737, Ext. 349.

Hearing Loss Support Group – Self Help for Hard-of-Hearing People (SHHH), San Antonio chapter 7 p.m. second Thursdays, 7400 Blanco Road, suite 130. 979-8060 (V/VCO), 673-2478 (V/TTY) or 342-0460 (V/TTY). Fax 342-816 or e-mail SHHHSATX@aol.com

Scleroderma and Sjogren’s Syndrome Support Group 7:30 p.m. second Thursdays, CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Northwest Hospital, cafeteria. Jean Palmeri, (830) 885-7603 or Cheryl Desarmeaux, (210) 523-7183.

Northeast Arthritis Support Group 9:30 a.m. second Saturdays, Northeast Methodist Hospital, 12412 Judson Rd., Community Room. Myrtle Todd, 655-7773 or Dianne Ebeling, 481-0619.

Amputee Support Group 10 a.m. first Saturdays, St. Luke’s Baptist Hospital, 7930 Floyd Curl Drive, classroom no. 1. For amputees of all ages, family and friends. Patrick, 967-9175 or Kay, 342-5334.

National Alliance for the Mentally Ill/Family-to-Family 10 a.m. first Saturdays, University Family Health Center – Southeast, 1055 Ada. Support for family members caring for persons with schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder or major depression. 533-5030 or 635-8013.

San Antonio Celicac Support Group Mother’s Day Brunch 10 a.m. May 13, Covenant Presbyterian Church, 211 Roleto Drive. Anne Barfield, 340-0648 or e-mail annebarfield@satx.rr.com.

San Antonio Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Support Group 1 p.m. fourth Saturdays, Alamo Heights United Methodist Church, room W104. 945-2798.

The Outdoor Chapel Non-denominational outdoor church for individuals with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities, Environmental Illness, Sick Building Syndrome and hypersensitivity to chemicals. Services will be canceled in the event of inclement weather. For more information write to P.O. Box 71, San Antonio TX 78291 or email ao_communities@yahoo.com

Disabled American Veterans, Alamo Chapter No. 5 Third Saturdays, Lackland Baptist Church, 2718 Frontier Drive, Grace Bldg. Albert Erazo, 651-7303 or Chaplain Albert Hinojosa, 674-2372.

WIDOWED PERSONS

Family Service Association: Counseling on a sliding scale fee 226-3391; Personal Assistance Services provides homemaker services and personal care to the elderly on a sliding scale fee. 657-4748; Connections Elder Care Resource and Referral provides consultation, training and referral services on elder care and aging issues. 225-0276.

San Antonio Widowed Persons Service (sponsored by AARP) In home one-on-one visits by trained widowed persons for widowed men and women of all ages. 754-9726.

San Antonio Area Widowed Person Support 7 p.m. second and fourth Mondays, St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church, Parish Center. 674-7194.

Grief Support Group 10 a.m. Thursdays, Trinity Baptist Church, Creative Life Center. For those who have lost a spouse. 738-7780.

Grief Support Group 7-8 p.m. Thursdays, Methodist Specialty and Transplant Hospital, Chapel. Deal with grief from death. 575-4030.

Sacred Circle of friends, Bereavement Support Group 7pm Fridays. For widowed men and women under age 65. 754-9726.

YOUTH

Children’s Bereavement Center Support for children and teens (ages 3-18) who have experienced the death of a loved one. Also parents/guardians group. 736-4847.

CHIP – Children’s Health Insurance Program State program with flexible rates based on number of people in a family and family income and expenses. For more information or application assistance call Mario Martinez, 354-2447.

Family Service Association: Families and Schools Together (FAST) Program in elementary schools and Head Start Centers that strengthens family relationships and improves parent and school relations. 657-4748; Youth Against Gang Activity (YAGA) Teen directed groups in middle and high schools deliver anti-drug and anti-violence messages. 226-4156; Counseling on a sliding scale fee. 226-3391.

St. PJ’s Children’s Home No cost counseling and psychiatric services for children and adolescent victims of crime and their families. Individual, family, couple, child, adolescent and adult therapy also provided for a fee. St. Peter-St. Joseph Children’s Home, 919 Mission Road. 533-6545.

Roy Maas’ Youth Alternatives: Free programs. Counseling 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays; Grief Loss Support Group for teens 14 to 17 years, 7 p.m. first and third Thursdays, 3103 West Avenue; Lifeskills Classes for youth ages six to 17 and their families. Topics include: Communicating Effectively, Managing Your Anger, Parenting that Works, How To Be Your Child’s Advocate and Danger Zones. 340-7971.

I Count Too (Cancer Therapy & Research Center support group for children whose parents have cancer) 7 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays, 7979 Wurzbach at Floyd Curl, first floor. Free of charge and no pre-registration. Cleo Basobakanako, 616-5597.

Sibling support Groups “Strong Sibs Together” Group meeting/activities for siblings of children with disabilities. 6:30-8:30 p.m. second Fridays for 6-10 years and 6:30-8:30 p.m. second Tuesdays for 11 years through high school. Evaluating starting a 4-5 year old group. Summer program in the works. Call Any Baby Can, 227-0170.

ABUSE VICTIMS

Counseling Works Verbal Abuse Group for Women and Alternatives to Conflict Training program to overcome the use of violence in relationships, group and individual sessions. Joan Wells, pager 203-2057.

Family Service Association: Counseling on a sliding scale fee and Employee Assistance Program. 226-3391.

Violence Intervention Program (VIP) For court mandated and volunteer men who have been abusive or violent to their partners. Also Women’s VIP. Registration appointments, 930-3669.

The Rape Crisis Center Trained counselors and counselor interns offer free confidential support/therapy groups and individual counseling to survivors of rape, sexual abuse and sexual violence. Types offered: AMAC (Adults Molested as Children) Group; Men’s Group (adult men who have been sexually assaulted or abused; Sexual Harassment Support Group; Sexual Assault Group (adult female rape survivors); and Teens Group (teen survivors of sexual violence). Times vary. 521-7273. If you are in crisis call the RCC 24-hour hotline, (210) 349-RAPE (7273) or (800) 656-HOPE (4673).

Mexican American Unity Council, Child and Family Unit 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., 2300 W. Commerce St., suite 106. Individual counseling for victims of emotional, physical and sexual abuse. Counseling available for victims of any crime. 978-0505.

Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (S.N.A.P.) 2-4 p.m. third Saturdays. For victims, families and supporters. For location call 725-8329 or 621-2177.

Family Assistance Crisis Team Trained volunteers offer free confidential assistance to victims of relationship violence. Team members available 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays at each of the six San Antonio police substations. Phone or walk-ins welcome. Check the blue pages of telephone book for number and location of nearest substation.

St. Peter-St. Joseph’s Counseling Center, 919 Mission Road: Women’s Abuse Recovery Group 1-2:30 p.m. Fridays. Richard Amiss, 533-6545; Women’s Sexual Abuse Survivors Group 10:30 a.m. to noon Fridays. Stuart Young, 533-6545.

Clergy Abuse-Misconduct Support Group first Saturdays presented by The Amber Foundation, a not-for-profit religious, charitable, educational organization dedicated to restoring and rebuilding individuals, spouses and families who have been affected by consensual or inappropriate, sexual or exploitative conduct of clergy or religious leaders. For time and location call Tony Salazar, 433-8500.

MISCELLANEOUS

Women’s Groups

Remaining In A Marriage When Your Spouse Has Had An Affair (Support group for women) Patricia Adams, 344-5517.

A Woman’s Voice Self-discovery and personal growth group for women. Recognizing, addressing and managing emotions in relationships. Theresa Poenisch, 737-1956.

Women’s Support Group Weekly meetings for women coping with stress, relationships and personal growth issues. Jeanne Strauss, 491-6708.

Women’s Support Groups Women’s Issues: Empowering Women. 10:30 a.m. to noon Tuesdays, Mexican American Unity Council (Violence Against Women Act Program), 2300 W. Commerce, Suite 301. 978-0505.

Menopause Support Group 7-8:30 p.m. second and fourth Wednesdays, Center for Graceful Aging, 6228 Bandera Road. A forum for mid-age women to discuss family and health issues. Terri, 680-8844.

Relational Living Groups 6 p.m. Thursdays, the Connection Center, Inc., to help women establish meaningful relationships, increase self-esteem and create healthy and life-giving support system. Call Beverly Valtierra, Ph.D., LMSW-ACP, 344-9255.

Women & Self Esteem Therapy Group Weekly women’s group conducted by female therapist, designed to develop self. 302-6920.

Women’s Self-Esteem Group 3-4:30 p.m. Thursdays, St. Peter-St. Joseph’s Counseling Center, 919 Mission Road. Diana Ochoa-Johnson, 533-6545.

GAYS, LESBIANS, TRANSGENDERED

Diversity Center – San Antonio: San Antonio & South Texas’ GLBTQI Community Center: Group, Couples and Individual Counseling meetings throughout the week. 611 E. Myrtle ; Gay, Lesbian Bi, Trans Vets 7 p.m. first Mondays; Royal Sovereign Court of the Alamo Empire 7 p.m. third Mondays; HIV/STD/TB Testing 4:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesdays but call to confirm; Narcotics Anonymous 8 p.m. Wednesdays; Trans Support Group 7-8 p.m. first and third Thursdays; Women’s Mixer 6-8 p.m. Fridays; ; Adult Social Mixer 6:30-8 p.m. Saturdays (call to confirm); GLBTQI Deaf & Hard of Hearing & Friends social and support group 2 p.m. third Saturdays; HIV Support Plus Group 4 p.m. Sundays; Youth Groups (13-20 years) 6-8 p.m. first and third Sundays. Call to confirm; Private Counseling Groups/times may change. To register for a group, call 223-6106.

Awakening-Parents & Friends of Ex-Gays 7 p.m. first Tuesdays. 653-8633 or 378-5981. P.O. Box 201004, San Antonio, Texas 78220.

P-FLAG (Parents & Friends of Lesbians and Gays) 7 p.m. first Thursdays, The Resource Center. Information and helpline: 655-2383 or e-mail yjonas@webtv.net

REACH 7 p.m Tuesdays, for those desiring to leave the homosexual/lesbian lifestyle. 653-8633 or 378-5981.

Awakening II Christian prayer and support group for those praying for recovery of a loved one living a homosexual lifestyle. 4 p.m. third Sundays, Christ Episcopal Church, parish hall. Inquiries: 736-3132 or 633-2235 or 378-5981.

Other

Pre-Abortion/A Woman’s Right To Know Helpline Free easy-to-read information published by the Texas Department of Public Health. Free pregnancy test, sonogram, Medicaid application and referral to community resources. Confidential. Bilingual. 623-7903.

Abortion Recovery Helpline and group programs for women and men. Confidential, bilingual. Project Rachel, 1-800-651-HOPE.

Catholic Counseling and Consultation Center (CCCC) Individual, couples and family counseling in a Christian spirit of love for enhancing and recovering human dignity. 377-1133 or www.ccccsa.com.

Delta Society, San Antonio chapter Help line for those whose pet has died. 614-6734.

SAPPY Pet Loss/Grief Support 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Horizon Church, 6800 Evers Road. Free. For anyone dealing with the loss of a pet companion through death or separation. For support via phone, 216-0920 or e-mail jwiley@satx.rr.com.

Humane Society Pet Loss Support Group 9:30 a.m. second Saturdays. Free meetings for anyone who has a critically ill pet, an unrecovered lost pet or a deceased pet. Reservations: 226-7461, ext. 119.

Students in Christ Youth Center Services and classes for children, youth and adults include GriefShare (grief recovery for loss; Teen Pregnancy; HIV Awareness;
DivorceCare (recovery for children and adults); Low Income Home Buyer Program; Financial Peace (learn how to get out of debt); Strengthening Families – group sessions; “Choosing Wisely: – Before you divorce. 566-6450.

Donor Family Support for those who’ve experienced donating a loved one’s organs or tissues. Oak Hills Professional Bldg. Debbie James, 575-4557.

Life Transition Group Four to six session therapy/process groups for those experiencing life transitions, such as retirement, new job or relocating. Lunch or evening sessions. 865-1913.

OASIS Person-To-Person Program Free confidential service assists older adults going through normal life changes. 270-3456.

Self Esteem Group for Men and Women Marriage and Family Institute, 1528 N. Main. $15 per session. 771-5939 or visit Web site beck-O-therapy.com.

Grief Support Groups:

Life After Loss Free bereavement support program (5-week sessions) for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one within the past two years, regardless of the cause of death. Next group 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays June 6 through July 18 (no meeting July 4), Resurrection Cemetery at Cordi-Marian Las Fuentes Banquet Hall, 11624 W. Culebra no. 501. American Cancer Society, 595-0224 or 595-0225.

Parents of Murdered Children and other Survivors of Homicide Victims, San Antonio chapter 7 p.m. second Mondays, Balcones Heights Community Center, 107 Glenarm. 344-7451 or (830) 981-9490 or log on to www.pomcsanantonio.org.v

Grief Support Group 7-8:30 p.m. every other Tuesday, First Baptist Church of Universal City. For those who have lost a loved one. 738-7780.

SOLOS-Survivors of Loved Ones’ Suicides 7-8:30 p.m. first and third Wednesdays, Ecumenical Center for Religion and Health, 8310 Ewing Halsell Drive at corner of Wurzbach. Pat O’Brien: 695-9136 or JoAnn Chavez, 616-0885.

Center for Infant Loss Support Group and Sibling Grief Support Group (for children ages three to 12 years who have lost a relative to unexpected death) 7:30 p.m. second Thursdays, Any Baby Can, 217 Howard. 575-0281.

Grief Support Group meets Quarterly, VNA and Hospice, 8721 Botts Lane. Support group for family and friends. 804-5225.

Encouragers Grief support by phone and referrals for those dealing with the loss of a loved one. Myrna Dozier, 641-7001 or e-mail mrscdr@earthlink.net

Porter Loring Family Care Services Grief Support Groups: Life After Loss six-week groups at various locations. Paula Loring or Lisa Kelsey Shepard; Young Women in Grief 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Mondays, Porter Loring Family Care Services, 2119 Mannix. For younger women who face the challenges of losing their husbands early in life. Explore issues such as single parenting, finances and living alone. Paula Loring; Forever Loved 7-8:30 p.m. Mondays, St. Pius X Catholic Church, 3303 Urban Crest, Martins Hall No. 211. For parents who have lost a child of any age. Paula Loring; Grief Support Group for Women 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Alamo Heights United Methodist Church, 825 E. Basse Rd. Ongoing group for women, 60 years and older, who have lost a husband. Lisa Shepard; Fellowship in Grief 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. second and fourth Wednesdays, Porter Loring Family Care Services. Ongoing group for younger men facing the challenges of losing their wives. Paula Loring; Grief, Hope and Healing noon-1:30 p.m. Thursdays Oak Hills Church, 19595 Interstate 10 W., Room A203. For women who live in the northern part of town and beyond, who have experienced the loss of a spouse, parent, child or friend. Any woman welcome. Paula Loring; Men’s Grief Support Group noon-1:30 p.m. Thursdays, Alamo Heights United Methodist Church. Ongoing luncheon meetings for men, age 65 and older, who are grieving the loss of their wives. Charles Schraub; Finding Hope When a Loved One Dies 2-3:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Temple Beth-El, 211 Belknap.
Ongoing group open to anyone struggling with grief. Paula Loring. Call 227-8221 for all groups and ask for the facilitator.

The Inner Peace Movement Meetings provide tools and techniques to lift up the spirit help you become a master of “energy.” For time and location call 641-7912 or (877) 475-7792.

Legal Advice Free Community Clinic 3 p.m. every other Wednesday. For appointment. 821-5522.

San Antonio Immigrant & Refugee Rights Project Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights. 736-1503.

First Baptist Church of San Antonio sponsored support groups: Divorce Care, deals with the anger, depression, lonliness and other struggles of divorce; Divorce Care 4 Kids, ages 6-12 available with reservation; Shelter From the Storm, for women overcoming memories and emotions of sexual abuse; Grief Share for grieving spouses. 13-week Bible-based journey through the stages of grief; Men’s Sexual Addiction and Pornography Addiction Recovery Group, Based on Biblical principles; Food Addiction/Disorders Biblical Based 12-Step Recovery Program; H.O.P.E., Christian support for friends and families of those in the homosexual lifestyle; Trusting God’s People Again, Healing and hope for those who have been hurt by someone in the church. Preschool childcare available during meetings with reservation. Call 226-0363 or visit www.heart2heartsa.org.

Jewish Family & Children’s Service of San Antonio support groups and therapeutic services: Anger Management Therapy, individual sessions or groups 5 p.m. Offers skills to learn to improve control and reduce angry outbursts. Call for appointment, 302-6852.

Breast Cancer Support Group 4:30-5:30 p.m. second and fourth Tuesdays. 302-6920.

Eating/Feelings Workshop Five-week program helps people get in touch with feelings about eating and body image. Psycho-educational and experiential approach to eating disorders. 302-6920.

Helping Children Cope With Divorce Various times and locations. Call for schedule, 302-6920.

Parents of Adopted Children 7-8:30 p.m. first Wednesdays. 302-6920.

Pregnancy Loss Support Group For parents who have experienced miscarriage or stillbirth. 302-6920.

S.A. Help – Living with Herpes Support Group 7 p.m. second Wednesdays. 302-6920.

University United Methodist Church sponsored groups: Al-Anon 7:30 p.m. Mondays and 10 a.m. Saturdays. Fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics; Alateen 6:45-7:15 p.m. Mondays. Support for teenage children of alcoholics; Alatot 6:45-7:45 p.m. Mondays. Support for young children of alcoholics; Nurses Helping Nurses 7:30 p.m. Mondays. Fellowship, learning and support for RNs and LVNs; Codependency with a Sex Addict (COSA) 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sundays. Twelve-step program for all relatives of sex addicts; Debtors Anonymous 7 p.m. Tuesdays. Help for those with compulsive debting; Texas Burn Survivors 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays; Burn Support for Family Members 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays. For families of adult burn survivors; Grief Support Lifeline 7:15 p.m. second and fourth Wednesdays. For those facing a transition or loss through death, divorce or separation; Recovering Couples Anonymous 7:15 p.m. Fridays. For couples committed to restoring healthy communication, caring and greater intimacy in relationships; Overeaters Anonymous 5 p.m. Sundays. All groups meet at church, 5084 De Zavala Road at Vance Jackson. Contact church in advance for childcare. Church office, 696-1033.

Coping with the Crisis of a Loved One’s Incarceration Family Renewal Support Group 6:30 p.m. Mondays, Bexar County Detention Ministries, 503 San Pedro. 299-4540 or e-mail bcdmcharles@sbcglobal.net.

Celebrate Recovery support group 7-9 p.m. Mondays, Westover Hills Assembly of God Church, 9340 Westover Hills Blvd. Support for anyone over 18 years dealing with addictions, co-dependency, women’s and men’s hurts, habits or hang-ups, or homosexuality. Services are free to the public. Child-care services available. Sue Bennett, 692-1790.

Never Ending Grace 7 p.m. second Mondays, Trinity Baptist Counseling Center, Library. For parents of emotionally disturbed children. 738-7780.

Generic 12 Step Program (Teaching Model) focuses on all types of addictions (relationship as well as chemical). Alcohol and drug addicts must

Monday, May 08, 2006
HEALTH SUPPORT GROUPS

Alabama Head Injury Foundation

For people with traumatic brain injuries and their families and friends. AHIF Small Places, United Way Building, 3600 Eighth Ave. South, 6:30 p.m., third Thursdays.

ALS Strength and Courage Care Group Supports comprehensive services and research for adults and families affected by Lou Gehrig’s disease. Sponsored by the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, 4887 Valleydale Road, 10:30 a.m., third Saturday of the month. Free. For more information, call 823-8191 or 800-525-6793, or visit www.als.mdausa.org.

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Groups are for anyone caring for an Alzheimer’s or dementia patient.

Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama offers a newsletter five times a year, as well as scholarships for adult day care and for continence products. Care teams are available for home visits and a resource library is open 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday, 300 Office Park Dr. For more information, call 871-7970.

Here are the meeting schedules:

ACA – 300 Office Park Dr., Suite 200, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., second and fourth Tuesdays. Information: 871-7970.

Bessemer – Bessemer Carraway Hospital, Level C, Doctor’s Dining Room, 6-8 p.m., first Mondays. Information: 481-8500.

Eastern area – Jefferson State Community College, Fitzgerald Student Center, room 403, 7-8:30 p.m., third Mondays. Information: 934-2178.

Source: http://www.al.com/healthfit/birminghamnews/index.ssf?/base/living/1147080131168350.xml&coll=2

Name : JOHN-HENRY DOUCETTE, The Virginian-Pilot

PORTSMOUTH – A woman has been accused of murdering a 2-year-old boy she was caring for in October, when he suffered injuries that doctors suspected show abuse.

Koby Stewart Jr. suffered injuries so severe he suffered seizures and could not walk or talk, according to police. His face, chest and back were bruised when he was admitted to a hospital.

He died a week later .

A grand jury on Thursday indicted Shawntisha Y. Gatling , 21 , on charges of murder and child neglect, according to court records. Robert E. Waddler , 25 , was also indicted Thursday on a charge of child neglect in connection to the case. In a search warrant, police identified Waddler as Gatling’s boyfriend.

Police had not yet arrested the accused Friday afternoon.

Neither they nor the victim’s family could be reached.

Gatling and Waddler were caring for Koby at an apartment in the Dale Homes neighborhood, according to the search warrant. Gatling called Cyntra Pete, the boy’s mother, on Oct. 6 , and said Koby was not responding, according to the warrant. Pete picked him up and took him to Maryview Medical Center . The child was later taken to Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters .

Gatling had told investigators Koby had walked into a wall and been jumping on a bed, police wrote. Yet when a forensic pediatrician examined Koby, he found the injuries were “consistent with abuse and not from a fall off a bed or walking into a wall.”

An autopsy found the cause of death to be “inflicted traumatic brain injury,” police wrote in the search warrant.

• Reach John Doucette at (757) 446-2793 or john.doucette@pilotonline.com.

Source : http://home.hamptonroads.com/stories/story.cfm?story=104046&ran=152457

Family comes back from the brink after crash.
If anyone deserves a break, it is 2-year-old Abigail Graybill and her family.

Abigail — Abby for short — has always loved watching movies, having books read to her and playing ball with her big bros.

Sometime today, the budding tomboy will leave Children’s Hospital and Regional Medical Center in Seattle to rejoin her siblings and her mom and dad in Kirkland. After seven long months in the hospital, Abby is looking forward to it.

She is the last in her family to get out of the hospital — and the one who faces the toughest road after what happened.

Abby is a quadriplegic; she can’t move from the neck down and needs a ventilator to breathe.
“One day she’s running around the yard,” her mother, Tanya Miller, 32, tells me. “Next day, she can’t move.”

The day the lives of the family changed — Sept. 15, 2005 — was extraordinary in its ordinariness.

Miller went to pick up her 14-year-old son Riley from football practice. The family was heading back to their home in the Shelton area. Riley sat in the back next to Abby. Their brother, Brent, 10, rode shotgun.

They were on Agate Road, north of Shelton, when a Suzuki Sidekick veered into their path and plowed into their Mazda Protege.

One thing about the accident seared into the mind of State Patrol Trooper Brian George when he looked at the mangled steel.

“The children,” George says. “So many people in one family. Someone crossed the centerline and almost took out a whole family. We didn’t think they’d make it.”

Medic crews rushed the family to hospitals in Seattle and Tacoma. The mother was in such bad shape that last rites were administered.

The catalog of injuries is profoundly sobering.

Brent suffered fractures to his arms, hands and wrists. He lost a spleen. His left leg snapped.
Riley, now 15, sustained a traumatic brain injury, a broken jaw and a broken left leg.

Miller broke a staggering number of bones: her collarbone; pelvis; hips; both femurs; knees; ankles; and all the toes in her left foot. The mother also lost her right kidney, part of a liver, her gallbladder and her appendix. Her spleen and pancreas were damaged. She was in a coma for many weeks.

But day by day, the miracle of healing has inched this family back from the brink.

Brent was released from the hospital Nov. 1. Looking at him now it would be hard to tell anything happened; he’s bounced back even though he has a metal rod in his leg.

His mom got out Dec. 8. She has graduated from a wheelchair to a walker to a cane. But pain still pulses through a leg, reconstructed with rods, pins and plates.

The day after she was let go, doctors gave Riley the green light to leave. He suffered no other internal injures except for a severe one to his brain.

Riley had to relearn how to tie his shoes and make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Although at times his memory and thinking are foggy, he has made huge strides in recovering his cognitive abilities. After spring break, he’ll be returning to school in a special-ed class.

This leaves Abby, who suffered two fractures to her spine.

As the girl has convalesced, her family had to deal with other challenges. They lost their Shelton apartment during the prolonged hospitals stays.

Miller’s fiancé — and Abby’s dad — left a job hanging drywall back in Shelton. A job can be replaced. Jesse Graybill vowed to keep a vigil at the bedsides of what mattered most — Miller and the kids.

Some family possessions got ruined in storage as mold took hold of bedding and furniture.
Despite the hardships this family has endured, good has shone through.

While the family had been living in free housing provided by the Ronald McDonald House, they’ve now secured an emergency Section 8 voucher for affordable housing with wheelchair access in Kirkland.

As word of their plight has spread, donations have trickled in. Beds. Chairs. Even money — as much as $12,000. Most of that sum has gone toward the purchase of a special van for Abby. The account now holds $56.

It is unthinkable that this family is fighting to make ends meet, all because someone crossed a foot-wide centerline in a renegade vehicle. Douglas Burgess, the driver of the Suzuki, is that someone. After the crash, he was treated for scrapes and chest pain. He faces multiple counts for vehicular assault. A trial is slated for spring.

Abby faces a whole different trial. For now, her mom, dad and brothers are looking forward to the long-awaited reunion of a family that survives.

“She’s alive,” Miller says. “She’ll be at home with us. Everything is going to be the way it should be.”

WILLISTOWN — Lisa Yaffe was riding a bicycle near Dartmouth College, where she was attending school, when she was struck by a vehicle traveling 55 mph.

Yaffe twice went into cardiac arrest before slipping into a five-week coma.

She was taken to Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital to recover from brain injuries suffered in the accident. Although she still has some balance problems and experiences other residual effects of the accident, Yaffe graduated from Dartmouth and can now walk on her own.

“From the moment we arrived at this hospital, they adopted her,” Yaffe’s father, Dr. Harold Yaffe, said of the doctors at Bryn Mawr. “They took us under their wing and fought with us for her recovery.”

With a 50 percent increase in patients with brain injuries during the past few years, the hospital, located at 414 Paoli Pike, is renovating and expanding its brain injury unit to better treat patients and help them through what can be a long, frustrating road to recovery. On Wednesday evening, hospital administrators held a meeting in the main therapy gym to discuss the expansion and give family members of brain-injured patients the opportunity to talk about their experiences with the hospital.

The hospital, among the first institutions in the country to specialize in the treatment of brain injury, began the $2.9 million project March 8 and is expected to complete construction in early 2007. All of the expansion is occurring on the second floor of the hospital.

Main Line Health, which includes Bryn Mawr Rehab, Bryn Mawr, Lankenau and Paoli hospitals, has committed $1.9 million toward the project. Another $625,000 has been raised in donations, and hospital personnel are asking for donors to help raise an additional $375,000.

Joanne Stevens Hoertz, vice president of clinical and support services, said the hospital is expanding the number of beds in the brain injury unit from 29 to 41. Also included in the project is the addition of a gym on the second floor, an intensive monitoring suite for patients with a higher level of acuity to experience increased visual stimulation and an expanded family lounge.

Family members often spend numerous hours at the hospital to be near their loved ones, and families of different patients often end up establishing a close bond, Hoertz said. By expanding the lounge, more family members will be able to visit the hospital and be comfortable while there.

“A brain injury changes the entire family’s life,” Hoertz said.

About 600 brain injury patients receive inpatient care each year at Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital, and an additional 500 patients participate in outpatient and day treatment programs. Traumatic brain injury — whether caused by car accidents, sports, aneurysms or other illnesses and accidents — is the leading cause of death for people younger than 45.

Dr. David F. Long, medical director of the brain injury program, said the expansion will give hospital personnel the means to provide the best possible care. An example of an improvement, Long said, is a planned observation room that will help recently injured patients adjust to their environment. Patients often go through a period where they become easily agitated, Long said, and the observation room will give them practice in adjusting to an environment similar to their home.

Such additions are welcomed by people like C. Lee Hervey, whose daughter was injured in a 1986 accident and continues to see Long as a patient.

“Bryn Mawr is our home,” Hervey said. “It’s in our backyard.”