The "ASAA A.W.A.K.E. Network" is a trademark of the ASAA. "A.W.A.K.E." stands for "Alert, Well, And Keeping Energetic" with each word capitalized and a comma between "Well" and "And." In the term "A.W.A.K.E.," the use of periods is key as "AWAKE" is a trademark of another association.

In order to participate in the A.W.A.K.E. Network and before using the A.W.A.K.E. name, coordinators must sign and return to the ASAA the "Statement of Understanding" which is included with the guidelines and on-line here. This ensures that all coordinators understand their responsibilities and support the goals and missions of the ASAA and the ASAA A.W.A.K.E. Network.

A.W.A.K.E. Network groups may use the ASAA logo in their material, such as invitations to their meetings and their newsletters. The ASAA mission statement can be incorporated into ASAA A.W.A.K.E. Network material. In accordance with the ASAA policies, each ASAA A.W.A.K.E. Network group must also use caution in acknowledging any sponsorship of such material or other support. Any contributions, direct and in-kind, should be appropriately noted but in an unobtrusive, subtle manner that does not detract from the purpose of the communication. The ASAA A.W.A.K.E. Network is not to be used for commercial purposes. If you have any questions about proper phrasing and placement, please contact the ASAA office directly.

The ASAA is a 501(c)(3) organization subject to IRS regulations that must be considered before implementing any activity. Because ASAA is a nonprofit organization, all A.W.A.K.E. groups are bound to follow certain restrictions. One of the most important is that the groups cannot endorse or recommend (or imply endorsement or recommendation of) any company, product, or health care provider. This is one reason we use generic terms, not trade names and require that A.W.A.K.E. groups do the same. In addition, A.W.A.K.E. groups are not just about CPAP, but about sleep apnea overall. A.W.A.K.E. groups must be open to everyone, regardless of where they were diagnosed or treated.

The ASAA A.W.A.K.E. Network is committed to the philosophy of patient-centered self-help groups. It is the people with sleep apnea themselves, often with the guidance of some sleep professionals, who should make the decisions about the group, its structure, and functions.

For A.W.A.K.E. groups started by a sleep professional, one or more coordinators who will take leadership responsibilities should be identified. People affected by sleep apnea, often patients with appropriate skills who are known by the sleep professional are the appropriate choice for this role. The structure of self-help groups should be that they are run by and for the people affected by sleep apnea, with the professional in an ancillary role.

If you are a person affected by sleep apnea and a potential coordinator, your group is not required to be sponsored by sleep professionals or organizations, but we do strongly recommend that each group find at least one sponsor, and preferably more than one, to assist you in your efforts.

Contact the sleep disorders centers, doctors and dentists working with sleep apnea, home health care companies, and any other appropriate sleep professionals in your area. Explain that you are considering starting an A.W.A.K.E. group, what you are looking for in a sponsor, and invite them to participate as sponsors if you think they can help your group thrive. Sponsors can be very helpful in arranging speakers, distributing meeting announcements, and providing refreshments. Your sponsor/s will also serve as a resource and advisor for your group.

Health professionals are frequently involved with self-help groups; however, their extent of involvement can vary greatly. Professionals have specialized knowledge that is valuable to the group, but the role of sponsor is different than the role of coordinator. Professionals starting a support group need to encourage leadership from within the group.

If a company sponsors an ASAA A.W.A.K.E. Network group, the relationship must be clearly understood so that the group knows what aspects the company is supporting; for example, mailings or refreshments. In relationships with different institutions and organizations, please remember the issue of patient confidentiality.

If the coordinator of your group changes, the new coordinator must read the guidelines and send an updated and signed copy of the "Statement of Understanding" for our records as well as an updated "About My A.W.A.K.E. Group" form.

We receive requests for information about A.W.A.K.E. groups every day. We will provide callers with the coordinator’s name and phone number to contact the closest groups directly. If your group is not active or we have not heard from you in the last year, we will not give out information about your group.