Peer Support Groups

In 2003, at the age of 36, I survived a heart attack and after a six week stint off of work and other things I decided it would be prudent for me to join a cardiac rehabilitation class so I joined and did the six month session.
During this time I found many benefits going to exercise regularly (3 times a week) and having trainers/therapists around, the group however was predominantly older people, the average age was likely around 70, they questioned me sometimes on why I was there, was I a "therapist" or was I there to "show off"?

My main objective was to exercise, to maintain a heart rate that was appropriate for me (the individuals age) (this was my introduction to heart rate training). Since I was much younger I was instructed to raise my heart rate higher than most others in the group, therefore I pushed faster on the equipment. I am not sure if my presence had a demoralizing effect on others (I hope not) or if I inspired them at all, I was just aware that I was out of place.

After the stroke, my main request had been to meet someone who has been here and done this and has bounced back. I wanted some reassurance things would be different than this initial dismal time post stroke. Even though doctors, nurses and therapists would reassure me that I would bounce back because of my age and physically fit condition, it was hard to believe considering how I felt.

One of my therapists, Elizabeth, handed me a brochure for a Peel / Halton Young Stroke Survivor (PHYSS) group on my way out of the hospital on discharge day. She knew of my experience with the cardiac rehabilitation and knew I would engage in a support group and knew that I would be more comfortable surrounded by younger people with other common interests like returning to parenting, work etc.

Six months later, I was in a little better condition and decided it was time to go to a support group. After a few meetings with younger stroke survivors I remember being a little disappointed in not meeting a fully recovered survivor, but, quickly I became appreciative of where my condition was, I could speak and get around with a cane unlike many other survivors. Although I'm not fully recovered maybe I could be to others what I was looking for myself?
I became co-chair (vice president) of this group, one of the other volunteers called me a "reluctant" volunteer. I live nearly an hour away by car and did not want to commit.

Knowing my interests in the group, the March of Dimes who help get these groups established encouraged me to form one in my area, Hamilton, Ontario. So with the help of the Ontario March of Dimes I did form a group in the summer of 2010 and I am the currently residing chair or president.

The Hamilton Young Stroke Survivor (HYSS) group meets the first Wednesday of each month at 1579 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario 2nd floor -  the west entrance of the building gives quicker access and an elevator should it be needed. The time of the meetings are from 6:30pm to 8:30pm to accommodate people (survivors/caregivers) who have day job. Usually we alternate meetings to include a speaker and then the next to be more of a social meeting. This Wednesday the meeting will have a speaker on income tax preparation...it 'tis the season.

Unfortunately my minor hockey coaching obligations have me coaching hockey games on Wednesdays so I have been unable to attend group meetings. I have been attending executive meetings and will commence attending group meetings next month, April.

The group has other very capable volunteers and will continue with or without me...that's what I was hoping for.