Are There Any Conferences for Tinnitus Sufferers?

I've had tinnitus now for over 10 years. I describe it to family and friends as having a tea kettle at full shrill in my right ear...never-ending...not one second of reprieve in all this time. If I get a cold, it ratchets up a few more decibels, if you can imagine. Sometimes it is also in my left ear.

I downloaded a white noise app at work that I have going while at work and another app that I listen to on my iPod when I sleep (plus a fan on high).

I've been to 5 audiologists who all told me I just have to live with this and offered me anxiety meds which I refuse to take . I hope and pray that there is a cure (sooner than later).

Thankfully, I haven't let it stop me from living...but it sure would be nice to have a few moments of silence.

I have looked into hearing aids but at $3500/ear, I won't be getting those.

I'm grateful to have found this support group. Does anyone know if there are any conferences or groups who get together to support each other? The only conferences I have found online are for audiologists and students. I want to meet other people with tinnitus face to face! I don't know anyone else in my life with this affliction.