Support Groups

APFED Connect Virtual Support Group

APFED Connect is a program launched in 2025 in partnership with the Center for Chronic Illness to provide small-group, virtual support.

To register to participate in an upcoming support group meeting

• Set up an account on the HeyPeers platform.
• Click on the “Meetings” tab at the top right-hand corner of the page
• In the search box, search for APFED Connect
• Select the group that you want to participate in and click register

3rd Monday of each month at 4pm PST / 7pm EST  – Start date: August 18th 

Please note: This is a private group, and a password will be needed to join the group. Passwords will be provided once a parental consent form has been signed and submitted to the Center for Chronic Illness.

Facilitated by: Jenna Tso, MSW, ASW is an associate clinical social worker based in Los Angeles who received her MSW from California State University, Long Beach, and her BS from the University of Toronto, and specializes in working with teens and young adults with food allergies and autoimmune disorders. As someone with lived experience of chronic illness and severe food allergies, Jenna is passionate about providing disability-affirming care and advocating for healthcare accessibility.

Groups are limited to 12 people.

2nd Tuesdays of each month at 4pm PST / 7pm EST – start date: August 12th

Facilitated by:  Kerry Heckman, MSW, LICSW is a therapist in private practice in West Seattle, who has a passion for working with clients who have chronic illness and rare disease. Kerry believes that when it comes to chronic illness or any challenge, it is essential to remember you do not have to face it alone.

Groups are limited to 12 people.

3rd Tuesday of each month at 4pm PST / 7pm EST – start date: August 19th

Facilitated by:  Kerry Heckman, MSW, LICSW is a therapist in private practice in West Seattle, who has a passion for working with clients who have chronic illness and rare disease. Kerry believes that when it comes to chronic illness or any challenge, it is essential to remember you do not have to face it alone.

Groups are limited to 12 people.

2nd Tuesdays of each month at 4pm PST / 7pm EST – start date: August 26th

Facilitated by:  Kerry Heckman, MSW, LICSW is a therapist in private practice in West Seattle, who has a passion for working with clients who have chronic illness and rare disease. Kerry believes that when it comes to chronic illness or any challenge, it is essential to remember you do not have to face it alone.

Groups are limited to 12 people.

APFED Connect Group Guidelines 

Respect & Privacy

• Do not share other people’s information outside of the group
• Listen when others are speaking
• Refrain from negative comments
• Be supportive of new members
• No screenshots or recordings during meetings

Communication

• It’s okay to pass if you don’t want to share
• One person talks at a time, no interrupting others

Safe Space

• This is a judgment-free zone, everyone’s feelings are valid.
• It’s okay to have different experiences with your eosinophilic disease
• It’s okay to feel upset, frustrated, or angry about having an eosinophilic disease
• It’s also okay to feel positive or share successes
• Do not contact anyone outside of the group unless you have prior permission

For questions, comments, or concerns, please contact mail@apfed.org.

The APFED Connect Program is made possible thanks to a partnership with the Center for Chronic Illness and grants from Sanofi/Regeneron, GSK, and the Robert & Toni Bader Charitable Foundation.

Eos Connections: APFED’s Online Support Community on Inspire

APFED’s online community on Inspire, EOS Connections, is a free, safe, and moderated space for anyone affected by eosinophil-associated diseases. Share your story, ask questions, and learn from patients, caregivers, and experts who understand the day-to-day realities of diagnosis, treatment, and living well. You’ll find practical tips, emotional support, and up-to-date information about research, events, and resources—all in a privacy-minded community that’s available 24/7. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or a long-time advocate, you’re welcome here. Join today to connect, learn, and feel less alone

There are also a number of Facebook groups for people with eosinophilic disorders. You may use the platform’s search function to find groups to engage with.

Local Support

APFED does not have affiliated in-person support groups, but as a courtesy, a list of volunteer-led support groups are below. Please verify meeting information, location and times with the group leader prior to attending each meeting because all information is subject to change. This list does not imply endorsement or affiliation of any support group with APFED. This list is intended only for local groups that meet in-person