We know that an active role in managing spondylitis, backed by a sound knowledge base, will positively influence its outcome. The people who lead SAA-Sponsored Spondylitis Educational Support Groups play a vital role by providing a forum for those with spondylitis to take an active role in taking charge of spondylitis. SAA-Sponsored Spondylitis Educational Support Groups provide:

• Current information and education about how to manage spondylitis;
• Speakers who are knowledgeable about spondylitis and related diseases;
• Literature and materials about these diseases;
• Confidential, non-judgmental interaction with others who know what it feels like to have spondylitis;
• Understanding and assurance that people with spondylitis are not alone, and;
• Resources to assist with education and management of the disease, including the Spondylitis Association of America.

Are you interested in starting a new SAA-sponsored spondylitis support group in your area? Contact us to get started!

Starting a spondylitis support group can be a fulfilling and rewarding challenge. As the facilitator or leader of the new group, you will be involved in coordinating support group meetings. The role requires you to make arrangements for meeting dates and locations, plan agendas, line up guest speakers, and respond to patient telephone calls and emails.

For more information on things to consider when starting a support group, please click here.

If you are interested in forming a group in your area, please contact SAA's Programs Manager, Melissa Velez, who will talk with you about the application process. E-mail her at melissa.velez@spondylitis.org or reach her by telephone at 818-981-1616, Ext. 227.

SAA is also interested in helping teens connect to share their experiences with other teens affected by spondylitis. Please contact Melissa Velez, as well, for more information.

You may also write to Melissa at this address: Spondylitis Association of America, P.O. Box 5872, Sherman Oaks, CA 91413