How To Connect With Others Living With Graves Disease and Thyroid Eye Disease…Join Our monthly Virtual Support Group
Hi friend, I’m Elena.
I can’t wait to meet you! I’m a holistic integrative pharmacist, functional medicine practitioner, but more importantly i’m someone who has been exactly where you might be right now, living through the fear, confusion, and isolation of Graves’ disease and Thyroid Eye Disease (TED).
When I was first diagnosed, I was so sad, terrified, and lonely. I began isolating myself, pulling away from friends and family because I didn’t know how to explain what was happening to me. I was overwhelmed by the whirlwind of scary information and confusing advice. I was confused and scared, so I spent nearly all my time at home in bed, hiding my face, crying, and endlessly Googling.
I went down the rabbit hole of every forum post I could find, reading strangers’ stories late into the night. Those stories brought me comfort and gave me hope… but it still didn’t feel REAL enough. I wanted more than typed words on a screen. I wanted to see real people’s faces, hear their voices, ask questions, and connect in a way that felt human. I wanted to talk to someone who truly UNDERSTOOD what I was going through, not just the medical facts, but the emotional ups and downs, the lifestyle changes, and the daily wins and challenges that come with these conditions.
That’s why I started our monthly Graves’ + TED Virtual Support Circle, to fill a need I didn’t see being met, and because I’ve always loved creating workshops and gatherings where people can come together, learn, and feel seen.
What It’s Like to Join
If you’ve never been in a support group before, it can feel a little intimidating at first. You might wonder:
Will I have to share my whole story? (No, only share what you’re comfortable with.)
Will everyone already know each other? (Some do, but newcomers are always welcomed warmly.)
What if I cry? (Many of us do. And it’s absolutely okay.)
Do I have to be on camera? (You don’t have to speak or be on camera if you don’t want to!)
When you log in, you’ll see faces from all over the world, we’ve had people join from the U.S., Canada, India, Europe, and beyond. Some are in the very early days of diagnosis. Others are years into their journey, navigating life after treatments or surgeries. We welcome all ages, all genders, and all backgrounds.
We usually start with a quick welcome exercise, introductions, and check-in. You can share a quick update, talk about a recent challenge or win, or simply say, “I’m here to listen.” Sometimes we focus on symptoms, treatments, and flare triggers. Other times we share lifestyle tips, nutrition, helpful products, mental health strategies, or just everyday life moments.
There’s no pressure to “perform” just an open invitation to show up exactly as you are.
What You Can Expect
Connection — A safe, understanding space where you don’t have to explain yourself or justify the basics.
Shared stories — Hearing from others who truly understand.
Practical ideas — Tips for managing symptoms, appointments, and self-care.
Focused topics — Sometimes we will have a discussion on a theme based on group needs, like nutrition, flare management, or self-advocacy.
A gentle open & close — We often begin or end with breathing, grounding, or calming techniques so you leave feeling lighter.
What’s Not Allowed
To keep this circle safe, supportive, and respectful for everyone:
No judgment — We all have different paths and treatment choices, and all are respected here.
No closemindedness or meanness — This is a space for compassion, even when we don’t agree.
No self-promotion or promotion of products/services — This includes your own work, other practitioners, or anything for sale.
I will never promote my own services during these calls. If you’d like to work with me, I’d be honored — all of my offerings are listed on my website and social media, and those conversations happen outside of group time.
Be mindful of time — If there are a lot of people on the call, please keep shares to 3–5 minutes so everyone has space to speak and feel heard.
No recording — Our sessions are not recorded due to the sensitive nature of the subject. You just had to be there!
How to Shape Our Conversations
You’re welcome to request topics or submit questions before or during a meeting. Some members email or DM me in advance so I can prepare resources, while others ask live during the call. This is your space, and your voice matters.
Who Can Join
Everyone is welcome no matter where you are in your journey, your age, gender, or location. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, post-surgery, in remission, or supporting someone you love, you have a place here.
What You Might Feel
On your first call, you might feel relief of finally being with people who get it. You might also feel a little sadness as you realize how much you’ve been carrying alone. Both are normal. Over time, many people tell me they leave feeling more grounded, more hopeful, and more connected. My heart always feels full by the end of the call
When and How to Join
Join here via Google Meet video: meet.thyroidloveclub.com
We meet once a month via Google meet.
The time & date changes every month, so keep an eye on this page for updates: https://www.thyroidloveclub.com/community
It’s usually the 3rd or 4th Sunday of the month, at 12pm EST (New York time)
You can sign up for our mailing list here for announcements & follow along on social media [Instagram]
There’s no cost to attend, just bring yourself, your story, and an open heart.
If you’ve been carrying this alone, I want you to know there’s a seat for you here. We’ll listen. We’ll share. And we’ll remind you that you are not alone in this.
Warmly,
Elena
Founder of Thyroid Love Club and Soul Script
Holistic Integrative Pharmacist | Graves’ + TED Advocate
