For Immediate Release

February 10, 2003

Mercy Offers Chronic Pain Support Group

Oklahoma City-Mercy Health Center is now offering a chronic pain support group for any Mercy patient and their significant others beginning February 26 through May 14 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. This unique support group will offer individuals who suffer from chronic pain the chance to learn techniques to manage their pain.

The 12-week program is free of charge but limited to15 people. The meetings will follow the program outlined in the book, Managing Pain Before It Manages You, written by Margaret A. Caudill, MD, PhD. Each chapter identifies methods participants can practice in order to cope with chronic pain. Participants will learn how to understand, effectively communicate and take control of their pain, as well as learn about proper nutrition and how to network with individuals in similar situations.

"The group will help people find support in the community," said Anita Bell, Mercy pain management coordinator. "We see so many people suffering from chronic pain who need to find different avenues to manage their pain. This support group is likely the first of its kind in the state."

Stephani Brill-Turner, LSW, will lead the support group at Mercy. To register, call 405-752-3600.

Mercy Health Center is a member of Mercy Health System of Oklahoma and the Sisters of Mercy Health System-St. Louis.

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