Interstitial Cystitis (IC), also known as Painful Bladder Syndrome, affects approximately four million women and men in the U.S. It is characterized by urinary frequency, urgency, and bladder and pelvic pain in the absence of infection. It is a chronic disease for which there is no cure. The cause is still unknown.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, "The emotional support of family, friends, and other people with IC/PBS is very important in helping patients cope. Studies have found that people who learn about the disorder and become involved in their own care do better than people who do not."

Meetings are held every other month at Saint Peter's University Hospital CARES building. Anyone suffering from IC is welcome. Often family members or friends come along as it is so important for them to learn about the condition and to understand how they can help. Meetings are free and run from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. A wide range of guest speakers present current information on medical treatment, stress management, physical therapy, diet modifications, and other topics.