My Nonprofit Reviews

I am 24 years old and have been suffering from Paruresis since I can remember. It is difficult to pin point what triggered this condition but my difficulty urinating in public really became a problem during high school and college with large public functions and such. As most people with paruresis will explain, and I am not different, you think that you're the only one with this problem. It forces you to "avoid" the issue, making life out in public a very difficult thing. One spring day a year ago I decided enough was enough and did a google search for shy bladder. I had heard of the problem shy bladder but didn't think it was real, just that something was wrong with me only. To my surprise and amazement I found the International Paruresis Association website and the shy bladder center workshops and forum. I was so excited! Such as weight off my shoulders. I took the first step and called the office and spoke with Yvonne, who made me feel so comfortable. We spoke for a bit and she filled me in on shy bladder workshops. I quickly signed up for my first in Boston last June. What began as a pretty nerve wrecking experience (actually exposing myself fully for the first time) turned into one of the most beneficial experiences of my life. I have been to one additional workshop since then, only due to a busy schedule. I would go to them once a week if I could. But I have made numerous friends through the IPA including Dr. Steve Soifer who is an amazing person for helping so many people with this condition. Everything that IPA does has been a blessing for me. I am currently on the Board of Directors in a minor role but hope to help this organization improve in the future because I truly cannot describe in words how much it has helped my life. I recommend getting involved with this organization for anyone who suffers from paruresis, you won't regret it. Overall this is the most beneficial non-profit organization out there. This phobia is so unique and can be so crippling to sufferers that the continuation of the IPA is so, so important. Whether or not we win an award, the benefits of this organization needs to be made public. As well as the truth of this condition that people with paruresis are not alone and the IPA is here to help.

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