Posted 10 months ago
Peer Support Groups
You do not have to feel alone on this journey with cancer. A great way to connect with others, who know what it feels like, is by participating in a peer support group.
Our family and friends can be a significant source of support for us but finding someone who has “walked in your shoes” and knows what it is like to navigate cancer treatment, can be so important. Support groups help us feel a sense of connection to others with similar and shared experiences.
Research has shown that those who participate in support groups during cancer treatment report several positive benefits. Here are some of the top benefits reported during research conducted:
- Help you cope with the side effects of treatment more effectively
- A greater understanding of your diagnosis and treatment
- A feeling of connectedness to community and those who understand what you are going through
- Losing that feeling of being alone
- A greater sense of hopefulness for the future
- Having a forum to discuss and work through emotions more effectively
- Participants report improved quality of life
- A feeling of empowerment and more confidence to advocate for yourself and your needs
At Ironwood, we over a variety of support groups to patient through our Supportive Care Services department. Here is a list of the groups we are currently offering. If you see one you like, feel free to reach out to Social Work at socialwork@ironwoodcrc.com or by calling 480-314-6660.
Metastatic cancer support – for those patients facing a Stage IV diagnosis or one that is no longer considered curative. This support group takes place on the fourth Wednesday of the month from 3-430pm
Breast cancer support – for men and women with a breast cancer diagnosis, at any stage of their journey. Here you can hear stories and experiences from those currently in treatment or post treatment about surgery, reconstruction, radiation, chemotherapy, immune therapy, ongoing hormonal therapy as well as so many more subjects relevant to breast cancer treatment. We offer breast cancer groups on the first Wednesday of the month from 6-8pm and on the second Saturday of the month from 10am-12pm
Survivors support group – for individuals who have completed treatment for their diagnosis and now are now trying to navigate the new normal, the new you, and concerns that arise for the cancer survivor. Survivors meet on the fourth Monday of the month from 6-730pm
Prostate cancer support – an outlet for support and education for our patients with and surviving from prostate cancer. This group takes place on the second Monday of the month from 7-9pm
Caregiver support – an opportunity to connect with other caregivers who have taken on a role to ensure the care of a loved one. It is a great forum to feel supported in this role, gain advice from others who have lived through life as a caregiver and to know your feelings are shared by others. Caregivers meet on the third Saturday of the month from 10am-12pm
Young adult cancer support – this group is for adults ages 18-25 who are living with a cancer diagnosis. Your unique and special needs are addressed in this group. In this group, you can connect with others your age who may be facing similar challenges and needs. We offer this group on the first Tuesday of the month from 530-7pm
If you are interested in a support group but do not see one that works for you, please give us a call and we may be able to connect you to a support group in the community.
At this time, all of our groups are held virtually on Zoom. We hope to return to in person activities once we feel it is safe for our patients