Cardiovascular Support Groups
The Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute offers support groups for individuals affected by cardiovascular disease. Through these support groups, individuals are provided with emotional and moral support.
Support Groups
Amputee Service Association
The Amputee Service Association provides support to persons facing an amputation. Their peer visitation program allows the person undergoing amputation to speak with an amputee prior to or after surgery. For more information, call (773) 282-1354.
Heart Transplant and Ventricular Assist Devices (VAD)Support Group
Heart transplant and Ventricular Assist Devices (VAD) candidates and recipients come together on the second Thursday of each month to share information, learn about heart transplantation and VAD, and receive emotional support. Each meeting includes a presentation on topics ranging from immunosuppression to coping with stress, followed by group discussion and support. For more information, call (312) 695-4965.
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)
Sponsored by Northwestern Memorial Hospital and major ICD device manufacturers, the ICD group offers an education and support network for patients who have received an ICD and their families and friends. Groups are available for patients under the age of 40 and over the age of 40. Patients learn from each other under the guidance of nurses and a clinical psychologist. A free monthly newsletter is available. For more information, call (312) 926-4753.
Mended Hearts
Sponsored by the Local Chapter of Mended Hearts, Mended Hearts provides education and support to patients facing treatment or surgery for heart disease. Meetings feature interactive lectures as well as social interaction. Many participants are former cardiac patients and their spouses who help alleviate fears about cardiac surgery and rehabilitation. Members also visit cardiac patients in the hospital. For more information regarding membership dues, call (312) 926-2498.
Young Hearts
Adults who were born with congenital heart disease or who were diagnosed with heart problems in their teen/early adult years come together to share information and learn more about living with a heart condition. Each meeting includes a speaker followed by discussion on topics ranging from managing one's heart problem to lifestyle issues and coping strategies. For more information contact Linda Hellstedt at (312) 926-5130.
