Chronically Invisible Conditions Support Community

The Chronically Invisible Conditions Support Community is a peer-led support group for adults in the Bay Area living with complex and/or chronic illness. Whether you're newly diagnosed, years into your journey, or still searching for answers, you're welcome here.
We meet twice a month in person in the San Jose/Santa Clara Valley area, Saturday around noon. Our meetings are welcoming and conversational, with a loose theme or topic to give each gathering some direction, such as navigating the medical system, building a care team, pacing strategies, or staying resilient when trying to find answers, with open discussion where members can share, ask questions, and simply be heard.
We also will be incorporating disability-friendly social events for members who want connection outside the support group setting.

Who this is for: Anyone 18+ living with chronic, invisible, or complex illnesses, including but not limited to: chronic pain, chronic fatigue, ME/CFS, POTS, dysautonomia, EDS, Fibromyalgia, MCAS, autoimmune conditions, arthritis, and more. Caregivers are also welcome.

Locations:

• Saratoga Library, Oak Room, 13650 Saratoga Avenue Saratoga, CA 95070
• West Valley Branch Library, Group Study Room B, 1243 San Tomas Aquino Road, San Jose, CA 95117
• Virtual Sessions (Starting in Summer 2026)

Accessibility:
Saratoga Library: (408) 867-6126 (reach out directly for specifics)
Wheelchair Accessible

West Valley Branch Library: (408) 244-4747 (read out directly for specifics)

COVID Safety:
Masks optional at this time

About the Facilitator: This group's facilitator, Sena, was the facilitator for the Santa Clara chapter of the Better Because Collective's Chronic Pain and Illness Peer Support Group. She's excited to continue her peer support group efforts through the Chronically Invisible Conditions Support Community!

Meaning Behind the Name and Mascot: Living with chronic illness can be isolating and it can be easy to feel chronically invisible. "Chronically Invisible" reflects the experience of living with conditions that are often overlooked by medical systems and misunderstood by society. It speaks to the reality of being unseen despite very real challenges. Our hummingbird mascot represents the hidden effort behind that experience. Any bird watcher knows, hummingbirds take a careful observant eye to see, otherwise they are nearly invisible.

Any Questions? Feel free to reach out at sena@chronicallyinvisible.com

Community Agreement: Our Commitments to Each Other

Show up for each other — Come ready to both give and receive support.
Share the mic — Be mindful of how much space you're taking. Make room for others to share.
Don't interrupt — Please let people finish their thoughts. Raise your hand if you want to speak.
Stay with the conversation — Keep contributions relevant. Check in with the group before changing direction.
Respect the facilitator's guidance — Redirects are to protect everyone, not a personal judgment.
Confidentiality — What's shared here stays here.

On Medical Sharing
You are welcome to share what has helped you in your healing journey. That peer knowledge is invaluable. Just remember we're not medical professionals: phrase things as your experience, not prescriptions, and always consult your own providers.

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On Group Fit
This is peer support, not therapy. If you're in active crisis or need clinical support, we'll help point you toward something better suited. Following this agreement is required for continued participation.