Start a local chapter!
Our chapters serve as a local touchpoint for families grappling with neuroimmune disorders including all types of encephalitis, PANS, and PANDAS. We are always accepting applications for new chapter leaders worldwide!
- Please first read over our 10 Principles and then submit your application below.
- Chapter leaders are required to host at least one meeting per quarter and commit to leading a chapter for twelve months. Willingness to fundraise is appreciated but not required.
- Please be as honest as possible in your application.
- Please note chapters are have been on hold due to COVID-19 however, we are resuming them in fall 2023 and now accepting applications.
Our chapters adhere to the following 10 principles:
- We provide peer-to-peer support but never provide medical advice. We do not share confidential stories with others.
- We share from our personal experiences with acknowledgement that no one treatment works for everyone.
- We acknowledge that PANS, PANDAS, and neuroimmune disorders have a very wide spectrum of severity. Treatment failure does not mean an individual does not have PANS, PANDAS, or a neuroimmune disorder.
- Families of individuals without abrupt onsets are welcome in our groups and will not be made to feel less than given there is no scientific evidence that sub-acute onsets represent a completely different medical disorder.
- PANS has no age restrictions. Adults with neuroimmune conditions and parents of adults with neuroimmune conditions are welcome in our groups.
- Individuals with autism can have PANS or another neuroimmune disorder just like any neurotypical person. Families of individuals with autism and a neuroimmune disorder are welcome in our groups.
- We do not tolerate discrimination or personal attacks.
- We whole-heartedly welcome new families and caregivers into the fold.
- We accept that the research on PANS, PANDAS, and neuroimmune disorders is in its infancy and more questions exist than answers.
- Above all, chapters exist so that families and caretakers have a safe space to share their experiences and embrace each other in an encouraging, warm, and non-judgmental atmosphere.