These are groups that meet face to face. Some of them are run through MDANZ and others are run by members.
Livewire is a free, safe and fun online community for young people aged over 10 and under 21 years living with a serious illness, chronic health condition or a disability. Go to their website to join, or to speak to someone please call the Livewire support team on 0800 000 680 (11am - 7pm) or send them an email. Check out this video to get an idea of what this community is all about.
There is a Myotonic Dystrophy support group on Facebook for people who have DM, and families/caregivers of those who have the disorder (all types - DM1, DM2 and Congenital Myotonic Dystrophy). The group was created so people can support each other, ask questions, offer advice etc. The admins are Muscular Dystrophy Northern member Yaz Dolbel-Neville, and former fieldworker Darian Smith.
For more information go to www.wilsonhometrust.org.nz, phone 0800 948 787 or 09 488 0126, or email [email protected].
The IBM Gathering happens approximately three times per year and is primarily for people in Auckland with IBM. These gatherings are held at Rehab Plus in Point Chevalier from noon-2pm. It is a positive support group where attendees use the space as a forum to share and socialize, often over a shared lunch. Guest speakers attend from time to time. Anyone with IBM or anyone who has family/friends with IBM is welcome to attend. Notes from previous meetings are sent out to members who are unable to attend. For more information on this group, please email [email protected].
Muscular Dystrophy Northern's Hamilton coffee group meets at Palmers Garden Centre café, Rototuna on the second Wednesday of the month at 10.30am. For more information email [email protected].
The Christchurch North Coffee Group meets on the first Saturday of the month as Columbus Café in Mitre 10 Mega, Papanui at 10am. Contact Paul Arthur on 027 2606 180 or email [email protected].
The Christchurch South Coffee Group meets in the private room at McDonalds Riccarton on the second Saturday of the month at 10am. Contact Heather Anderson on 020 4062 9014 or email [email protected].
The Christchurch Late Risers Coffee Group meets at Dux Dine on the third Wednesday of the month at 1pm. Contact Bruce Dodd on 027 4499 794 or email [email protected].
For information about the South Canterbury/Timaru Coffee Group contact Dave and Fran Aitken on 021 1028 296 or email [email protected].
The Nelson Coffee Group meets every 6 weeks at Pic’s Peanut Butter Factory Café. For more information and dates please contact Kevin Page on 029 7774 403 or email [email protected] or George Martin on 027 4205 631 or email [email protected].