http://www.racoon.com/dcforum/DCForumID8/948.html

Am still in the process of setting up a HELP group, a herpes support group affiliated w/ASHA (American Social Health Association). ASHA has a few requirements, but nothing too hard. I must admit, the hardest part in the beginning was making cold calls to strangers, giving them my name and number, and talking about herpes!

The most time-consuming part for me so far is finding a medical advisor, as each group much have an MD, NP, RN, or some kind of medical professional willing to work with the group. I've been in contact with the local county health department and there's a NP at their STD clinic who's interested. They've invited me to their next staff meeting to see if we can drum up some more support. Also, good news today: I got a call from the person who directs clinical operations for PP in my region and she might have someone interested in helping as well.

The other details are fairly minor: deciding how to handle phone service (if it will be donated by a sponsoring organization or if I'll get another line or cell phone); mail (home address or p.o.?); and finding a suitable place for a regular monthly meeting (still haven't settled on one yet).

ASHA has a helpful kit that spells out all the steps required for affiliation, if you are interested.

I'm hoping to have it up and running by Labor Day...hope that's not too optimistic on my part!