Support for restless leg sufferers

DEAR SUN SPOTS: To the person who wrote in concerning the awful malady, Restless Legs Syndrome, in your column on Friday, Nov. 3, www.rls.org has marvelous resources, including webinars with physicians who specialize in this disorder. Membership costs $35, but you can use much of the website for free. There is a support group that meets at Allen Avenue Universal Unitarian Church located in Portland at 524 Allen Ave.

We are each unique so perhaps some of the folk remedies might work, but I suggest going right to the website before suffering any longer. My mother had RLS, I have it, and, I’m sad to say, so does one of my children. If the reader will write again with their contact information, I would be happy to talk with her/him.

—No name, Auburn

ANSWER: I’m always so grateful when a reader takes the time to reach out to help others who have written about a particular topic. You all make Sun Spots shine all the brighter!

I researched the National Restless Legs Syndrome website and spoke with Lindy Hough, who facilitates the support group mentioned above. Currently, the nearest group meets quarterly, with the next meeting from 7 to 9 p.m. on Jan. 17.

Lindy said that there was a great need for more support groups and encourages anyone who wants more information to contact her. To form a group, you only have to have the syndrome yourself, have the desire to gather together at least five people, find a place to meet, and join the National Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation by paying $35 in yearly dues. By being proactive, you could not only find answers for yourself, but also help others.

Lindy can be reached at somaine@rlsgroups.org and at 510-508-8163.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Our Lady of Ransom Church at 119 Elm St. in Mechanic Falls is holding a craft fair including raffles, lunch and other food items on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tables are available to vendors for $20. Please call Josie @345-3274 FMI.

—Josie, no town

DEAR SUN SPOTS: A couple weeks ago, I tried to fill my gas tank at BJ’s, but my credit card wouldn’t work. After trying repeatedly, the attendant advised me to go to the Service Desk. As I went to do that, a lady who I hadn’t noticed before ran up to me and said, “Wait! Here use my card!” She inserted her card in the pay slot, and said “Fill it up!”

I said, “Thank you. How much do I owe you?” She replied, “Nothing. It’s from me for a former serviceman.” (I was wearing my Air Force cap.) She wouldn’t accept any money and just said, “Thanks for your military service. This is my good deed for the day.”

Thank you kindly, dear lady. I’ll pass on the good fortune. It’s so gratifying to see that there are still good-hearted people around.

—Bob, Lewiston

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