Who we are
The Chronic Haven is an international volunteer-led peer support organization for people living with chronic illness and chronic pain.
At The Chronic Haven, we're dedicated to creating a supportive community where individuals living with chronic illness and chronic pain can find solace, connection, and empowerment. Our mission is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for sharing, learning, and growing together.
Our community is designed to provide a secure and supportive environment for individuals with chronic illness or chronic pain. To ensure the confidentiality and comfort of our members, we limit participation in our private groups to patients only, not caregivers.
Our Story
The Chronic Haven was founded on the principle that no one should have to navigate the complexities of chronic illness and chronic pain alone. Our team is passionate about creating a community that understands the unique challenges of living with chronic conditions. We believe that by sharing our experiences, supporting one another, and advocating for ourselves, we can build resilience and find strength in the face of adversity.
Our Values
Empathy and Compassion: We deeply understand the struggles of living with chronic pain and illness, and our voice reflects warmth, compassion, and genuine care for our community.
Inclusivity and Diversity: We celebrate diversity and ensure that all voices, especially those from rare disease communities, are included and represented.
Empowerment and Support: We strive to uplift our members, encouraging them to take charge of their health journey and find strength in community support.
Authority and Trust: We aim to be a trusted resource, offering accurate and reliable information, expert insights, and educational opportunities.
Our Community
The Chronic Haven is more than just a support group – we're a family. Our virtual meetings, private Facebook group, and Discord server provide a safe space for connection, sharing, and growth. Our community is built on the principles of mutual support, respect, and inclusivity.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create a warm and welcoming community that fosters hope, resilience, and strength for individuals living with chronic pain and illness. We aim to be a trusted resource, offering accurate and reliable information, expert insights, and educational opportunities to help our members navigate their health journey.
Join Our Community
If you're living with chronic pain or illness, you're not alone. Join The Chronic Haven today and discover a community that truly understands. Together, we find strength and resilience.
The Founders
“Chronic illness warrior, word weaver, and desert dreamer.”
Elle Becker is a writer, artist, and advocate who calls the Arizona desert home. As a woman living with multiple chronic illnesses, including MCAS, EDS, and celiac disease, Elle has learned to navigate the complexities of her conditions while pursuing her passions. She finds solace in writing, reading, and painting, and is a proud winner of the Tempe Writing Competition in Poetry and a Highly Commended recipient in the McLellan Poetry Competition.
As the founder of The Chronic Haven, Elle is dedicated to creating a supportive community for individuals living with chronic illness and chronic pain. Her own experiences with isolation and struggle inspired her to create a safe space for others to connect, share, and grow. When not advocating for chronic illness awareness, Elle can be found enjoying the Arizona winter outdoors, playing Scrabble, or dreaming of becoming a crazy dog lady.
“Supporting others, because we’re stronger together.”
Priscilla O'Connor is a seasoned business builder and marketer who brings 25 years of expertise to The Chronic Haven. As a co-founder, she's passionate about creating a supportive community for individuals living with chronic illness and chronic pain. Priscilla's own experiences with misdiagnosed and undiagnosed chronic illness sparked her desire to help others, and she's dedicated to providing a safe space for connection, sharing, and growth.
When not advocating for chronic illness awareness, Priscilla can be found juggling the demands of mothering teenagers, enjoying quality time with her husband, and snuggling with her pets in Northwest Arkansas. She's also an avid traveler, whenever her body allows it. As someone living with MCAS, mycotoxicity, and ME/CFS, Priscilla understands the complexities of navigating chronic illness and is committed to supporting others on their own journeys.
