One of the greatest challenges of the medical community is balancing the delivery of quality care to our patients with the need of these same patients for a supportive hand and empathetic ear. The healing and comfort that comes from communications and communion with others dealing with a similar disease or medical condition is well documented and deserved. Support groups and self-help teams are especially important for disorders like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) where answers are so hard to come by.

The CPF is committed to meeting this need by assisting individuals and institutions with the development of support groups around the country. The CPF's "IPF Support Group Coordinator's Kit" is available for those interested in starting a local support group. Please contact Teresa Barnes at 888-222-8541, x. 702 or by email at tbarnes@coalitionforpf.org to obtain a copy of this valuable tool.