04/25/11 Mrs. Kelly Gunderson of Plymouth is in the beginning stages of forming a resource and support group for parents and families of children with chronic illnesses and or diseases.
Gunderson said, “Obviously my special interest is Juvenile Diabetes, but I know that there are many families battling not only this disease, but other illnesses as well. Many of these families are facing many of the same daily challenges.”
Discussions with a social worker at Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center in Plymouth have lead to Gunderson receiving support for her efforts. She said, “I am looking primary for families in or around the Marshall County area, as we currently do not have any such programs.” She did clarify that anyone would be welcome to participate, regardless of where they are from.
Due to HIPPA regulations, which are privacy rules that were approved by the federal government in 1996 to help keep a patient’s personal health information private. Due to HIPPA, Gunderson is unable to directly contact potential parents and families that could benefit from this group.
It there are families who would be interested in helping create or willing to join a support group for families with chronically ill children they may contact Kelly Gunderson via email at kelashzach@aol.com or by calling her directly at 952-0891.
Many of you may now Gunderson’s daughter, Ashley Combs who was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes a few years ago. Her family has taken a very active role in raising money for research and to find a cure.
