About

Patient Needs Come First

The GBS/CIDP Foundation International is working for a future when no one with Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), and related syndromes such as multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) suffers alone and that everyone has access to the right diagnosis and the right treatment, right away.

Our commitment is our story. It all began with eight people sitting around a dining room table 30 years ago. Through the hard work and determination of our Founder, Estelle Benson, the Foundation grew larger and has become able to support thousands of patients, family members, friends and caregivers. The Foundation is committed to continuing to provide the experience of care and support so indicative of the original grassroots mission.

Our commitment is to support those touched by GBS | CIDP and variants so that every patient has access to an early and accurate diagnosis, proper treatment, and the opportunity for a full recovery. Learn about our original Founders, Bob and Estelle Benson, and the fascinating historic journey that was once 8 and is now over 30,000 members! Our Leadership, guided by our Board of Directors, is committed to success in all areas of support, education, research and advocacy. The Foundation is extremely fortunate to be associated with the top experts in neurology. This expertise extends to you in many ways, including the Centers of Excellence programs which provide first-class care to GBS-CIDP patients.

  • Founded in 1980
  • 35,000 members worldwide
  • 160 chapters in 47 countries
  • 44 global centers of excellence
  • 75 US chapter support group meetings annually
  • 20 member Global Medical Advisory Board
  • Funding research
  • Improving access to care and global awareness
See our videos for more information.