My Nonprofit Reviews

The Northern California Chapter of the Neuropathy Ass'n has consistently provided very concrete information regarding the clinical trials as well as the anecdotal reports of the range of treatments (neuro-protective, and neuro-supportive) as well as palliative (pain reducing) methods that are offered to people with neuropathy. They are careful to distinguish between 'anecdotal' versus clinical trial data. What is amazing is how well organized and accessible the information is on their website and in the meetings, hosted by volunteers, who often keep good information on hand for those w/o internet access. The monthly support groups, with speakers at some meetings are a wonderful way to gain support from others who share this strange, debilitating and demoralizing condition and to hear from people who have helpful insights to share. The president of this chapter (Bev Anderson) has gone "above and beyond" with her informative newsletter, getting discounts for members (treatments can be expensive!) and was a member of the California Neuropathy Legislative Task force. I am very grateful that I stumbled upon this organization. Not only am I a client served, I am also a gerontology social worker, and I often refer patients (chemo-induced neuropathy and diabetic neuropathy) to their website and to their support group meetings. The local facilitators are VERY good! (as good as many social workers!) Additionally, Bev Anderson herself travels to small chapters to help them get started, and fills in as a facilitator when no one else can do so. The website is beautifully easy to navigate, and I used materials from their website for a presentation I gave at an oncology social work conference in May 2011 (last month) as well as to oncology staff at our local hospital.
It is important to note that neuropathy is actually relative common -- 22% of those over age 65 and more than 50% of those who have had diabetes for 10 yrs. Yet - it is very poorly managed by medical professionals who tend to rely on pharmaceuticals that only mask the pain, and don't address supporting the nerve or supporting safety/patient care (eg loss of balance, de-conditioning, cuts/burns .. all the things that arise as a result of neuropathy). Inability to button, to drive, to use fingers ... all activities that need physical therapy or occupational therapy to re-train the body/brain on how to do things. The NCCNA promotes self-efficacy in a safe and compassionate manner, in a topic that has no other source for info & support.

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