[ICIC Interstitial Cystitis Information Center]

Our Director - Kay Hutchison Benton, B.S., M.A.

[Photograph of the Author Kay Hutchison Benton]

As Founder/Director of the Interstitial Cystitis Information Center and Health Products Distributorship (ICIC/HPD), I welcome each of your to our website. I am a former IC patient who knows only too well the suffering that occurs with this disease. For six years I was undiagnosed and literally felt I was going through hell. Once diagnosed and treated properly, my bladder became healed over a period of time. (Click on Kay's Story in the CONTENTS panel to the left.)

There is NO quick cure for IC--we need to learn the 3 P's (pun intended): patience, persistence and perseverance: three of the most difficult qualities we ever have to learn. But if we truly want to get well, we must take on and keep these qualities always in front of us. Without all of these, it will be most difficult for you to succeed in your goal of healing.

For two years, until moving to south central Virginia in September of '96, I facilitated the Northern Virginia IC Support Group, not connected to the Interstitial Cystitis Association (ICA). Before then, I was an assistant ICA coordinator for Virginia. My mission in life today is to help as many IC patients as I can to recover healed bladders so they can return to normal living once again.

As you can see, ICIC/HPD is run by a former IC patient. My goal is to help you by providing a variety of products and services.

E-mail me at dbenton@moonstar.com. I welcome your thoughts and comments regarding our website.

ICIC Disclaimer:
The ICIC/HPD is not a medical authority. We do not engage in the practice of medicine. In all cases, the ICIC/HPD recommends the patient consult her/his physician regarding any course of treatment or medication.