Sleep apnea is a common disorder that directly impacts sleep health. Sleepdex reported that 1 in 15 Americans, which equates to roughly 18 million people, struggle with sleep apnea. If you or a loved one are struggling with sleep apnea there is help available. An A.W.A.K.E. sleep support group can be a valuable tool in dealing with sleep apnea.
What is A.W.A.K.E.?
A.W.A.K.E. is an acronym for Alert, Well, And Keeping Energetic. It is designed to give sleep apnea patients the tools to proactively manage their health care. By connecting current patients with those who have previously dealt with sleep apnea they can receive emotional support, as well as learn about tools available to help manage their condition. Meetings also focus on continuing education. Industry experts are brought in to speak, and equipment demonstrations can be made during the meeting. Every A.W.A.K.E. meeting is free of charge, and designed to help sleep apnea patients cope with their condition. Groups are available nationwide, so no matter where you live, you most likely have a group near you.
Who Is It For?
AWAKE support groups are designed to help sleep apnea patients and their families. The sleep apnea support groups are also open to healthcare professionals and sleep dentists. If you or a loved one are struggling with quality of life while using CPAP, unsure of how to follow through on treatments, or just need emotional support from others who have gone through the same situation, then A.W.A.K.E. CPAP support groups may be a good fit for you.
History of the Organization
The first A.W.A.K.E. support group was founded in 1989 by Lucy Seger, RPSGT. She was assisted by a board made up of Joyce Black, Nancy Kern, Jean Hardy, and Linda Napierala. According to Sleep Review Magazine, “Seger and her dedicated committee understood that by using mutual support it is possible to improve adherence to therapy among sleep apnea patients using CPAP.” Since the first group was founded in 1989, the organization has expanded, and groups are now available in all 50 states, and throughout Canada.
Why It Works
Support groups can be a valuable resource where patients can share their experiences, as well as receive help solving problems, and emotional support. The Mayo Clinic describes why support groups are effective, stating, “A support group can help you cope better and feel less isolated as you make connections with others facing similar challenges. A support group shouldn't replace your standard medical care, but it can be a valuable resource to help you cope.”
A.W.A.K.E. groups are a safe, supporting place to address the problems unique to sleep apnea patients. The American Sleep Apnea Association discussed the benefits of the group, stating, “Since 1990, the A.W.A.K.E. Network has helped enhance the lives of those with sleep apnea by providing educational resources, patient to patient support, and real life solutions. A.W.A.K.E. groups work by combating isolation, providing patients with information and a chance to digest it, and presenting opportunities to think out problems and ask questions.”
How to Find a Group Near You
The A.W.A.K.E. Network currently has groups located in all 50 states, as well as throughout Canada. You can find a group near you by searching the database found on the American Sleep Apnea Association’s website. Simply click on your state on the map, or select from the list of states and provinces linked below it.
There are currently 3 groups in Missouri. The contact information for each group is listed below.
Cape Girardeau
Affiliation: St. Frances Medical Center
Contact Name: Lisa Jennings/Geri Beussink
Phone: 573-331-5837
Meeting Schedule: Quarterly
Website: mailto:gbeussink@sfmc.net
Chesterfield
Affiliation: Sleep Medicine and Research Center
Contact Name: Jill Wilson
Phone: 314-205-6960
Meeting Schedule: Quarterly
Website: mailto:Stacy.Bilello@stlukes-stl.com
St. Joseph
Affiliation: Randolph Seating and Mobility
Contact Name: Roxane Peters
Phone: 816-364-4357
Meeting Schedule: Not Listed
Website: mailto:roxane@randolphmedical.com
How to Start an A.W.A.K.E. Group
If you are interested in starting a new group, you can reach out to members of the Coordinator’s Council to get more information on the logistics of running a successful group. Once you have determined that there is a need for a group in your area and understand what responsibilities you have as a group leader, you can fill out an About My A.W.A.K.E. Group form. This form serves as your application, and will also need to be submitted whenever there is a change in the group leadership or location. Patients, family members, and healthcare professionals are all welcomed as A.W.A.K.E. group coordinators.
Help For Sleep Apnea Patients
The A.W.A.K.E. network is a valuable resource for sleep apnea patients and their families. If you or a loved one are struggling with sleep apnea, you don’t have to feel alone. Find a group near you, and benefit from the support of others.
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