Ashtabula Quarterly Lupus Support Group

2023 Meeting Dates

March 12th (Theme: Butterflies and Metamorphasis)

June 11th

September 10th (Location May Change For This Meeting Date)

1p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
*This group will not meet during the month of December.

In-Person Location:
Pizza Hut
1951 W Prospect Rd., Ashtabula, OH

Keep in mind that support group locations and times are subject to change, particularly in times of severe weather. Please call the LFA, GOC office before 5p.m. on the day of the meeting for the most up-to-date information.

Meet Your Facilitator!

Brenda Angle

A note from Brenda:

I know many people do not think about or use all of their skills and talents.  Sometimes it takes a tragedy, illness, or simply an unpleasant experience to bring creativity to the surface.  A change of lifestyle due to events occurring out of your control may take up to five years for adjustment or acceptance. God will grant you the wisdom to know your limitations.  You can find peace within yourself, IF you want to.  Your mind will automatically pursue an interest or a way to occupy time if you give in to your intuition. Motivation is the key! “I think I can, I KNOW I CAN, therefore I do”!

For many years my feet literally did not touch the ground.  I worked at a dance studio, taught dance, and performed.  I went to Aerobics, and the Y and was told I looked like the perfect picture of health. I planned a great vacation every year with my friends.  I worked at my job as an Information Systems Director at The A. Louis Supply Company, and also joined AITP (Association of Information Technology Professionals.

When I was almost 30 years old, I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.  I put away the dancing shoes but could not believe that life as I knew it was over.  Nineteen years later I realize I did not understand what ‘chronic’ meant.  I was hospitalized several times, each time learning more as doctors hovered about me.   My life changed dramatically as I learned lupus had affected most notably my muscles, nerves, and spine.  At one point I spent 4 months in the hospital.  I knew when my spine was affected I would not remain in a wheelchair and would continue working.  I believe it is essential to maintain an exceptional attitude about my (your) life and circumstances occurring in my (your) life.  I developed a working relationship with a great doctor and also sought out ADJOINING  therapies.  Spiritual growth, chiropractic, relaxation and music therapy helped me immensely. The most valuable knowledge is that gained by experience.

I have returned to normal life and even dancing.  My mission is to teach and help others know that they can live with a chronic illness.  I have been to beginning, intermediate and advanced facilitator training, not to mention many seminars.  Most of this training was provided by the Lupus Foundation, Greater Ohio Chapter.  I have been helping lupus friends for over 25 years, and there is always something new and wonderful to share.