After being diagnosed in August 2007 with Bullous Pemphigoid (BP), I wondered what I could do to help others who were suffering with this disease. I felt that there had to be something that I could do to help. I became as educated as I could about the disease, I became active on the “Community” website (community.pemphigus.org) and I learned how to manage my disease. Then, the IPPF gave me an opportunity to help out as a “Certified Peer Health Coach” (PHC).
At this year’s Annual Meeting in Philadelphia, you will have many opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others who suffer from our disease by learning about, and considering becoming an IPPF Peer Health Coach.
This program matches Coaches with participants who will benefit from support. I will be conducting and hosting three, one-hour PHC sessions to help you learn about, and consider participating in, this crucial program.
As our community continues to grow, so does both the IPPF’s Peer Support and Health Management Programs. The IPPF’s Health Management Program was developed to help new and existing patients diagnosed with Pemphigus/Pemphigoid manage some of the challenges of the disease. As a bonus, the data collected helps doctors and scientists to get a better understanding of the disease and treatment outcomes through research questions.
The Health Management Program improves our understanding of the disorder, improves treatment, improves communication with healthcare providers, and give people an opportunity to find an educated, experienced and non-judgmental outlet to share experiences, and to learn how others are managing the disease.
If you would like to learn more about becoming a
Certified Peer Health Coach, please contact me at
916-922-1298 extension 1006, or you can email me at marc@pemphigus.org to get started.
Marc Yale is a Certified Peer Health Coach for the IPPF working to better the lives of patients around the world.
