Seeking a Support Group in Bay Area of San Francisco

[DAO]

My sister was recently diagnosed with ALS (65). It has been a whirlwind of emotions and we are across the country from one another. We are best friends and one another confidantes. This is in addition to having an aging mother who is 90 that cares for another sibling. I have found it hard to function in my everyday life of family and work since she was diagnosed. She of course is devastated and I want to support her any way I can and myself. Our family is contemplating moving her out west so that she can get family care from us as her current partner will not be able to provide the care she needs. It is confusing as she is comforable where she is in her environment. We also live in an end of life state where she does not. I feel lost on what to do in addition to all the emotions that involve this journey. I would like to connect with others or meet up in the area as a support system. Do these exist. Pardon my naivete as this is all very new and unknown besides the overwhelming information found online.
On a separate note we are going to try to be part of a trial if chosen. Thank you for all repliies

 

[lgelb]

A sad welcome, D. Your family has a lot going on even before ALS, it seems.

A peaceful passage can be accomplished regardless of State law, so long as that's your mutual wish, so I wouldn't worry about that. Of course, you want her to live where/how she's most comfortable. Can she afford in-home help where she is? Would her partner be moving with her? Could you consider moving in with her? Can the things that make her comfortable where she is be exported or replicated in some way?

It's good to just tick through all the options, no matter how wild they seem. A social worker at her current clinic and maybe an independent senior patient care advocate in your own neck of the woods might be able to support you in that.

All local ALS charities have patient and caregiver support groups of some kind, virtual and/or in-person. Google ALS support group and your zip code. Or hers.

We will support you however we can.