Cancer Support Groups
Coping with cancer doesn't have to be as difficult as many may think. Cancer support groups are available for all types of cancer, stages and people.A support group isn't just sitting in a room talking about cancer. It's about making friends that can identify with your disease and help to cope. Many cancer groups have outings to parks, movies and other venues to develop these friendships.
Online Communities
Joining a support group online can be one of your best bets in coping with cancer. If you are experiencing major side effects from therapy and have difficulty leaving your home, an online community is your first step in coping. You still maintain somewhat of your anonymity, which helps many become more candid about their feelings, fears, and frustrations. Plus, you can discover information and tips that you might not have been aware of about your disease.
Here are some online canncer support groups definitely worth checking out:
- Cancer Care offers online support groups for many types of cancers, patients, family members, and caregivers.
- The Cancer Survivors Network is a an online support community sponsored by The American Cancer Society. It is designed for survivors, patients, family members/friends, and caregivers. It is free to join and offers support from many different aspects.
- OncoChat is online chat group for cancer patients. Now in it's 10th year of operation, it is a great way to connect with other survivors and patients.
Community Support
Community cancer support groups are the best way to actively get involved. They can be held in hospitals, churches, community centers, and even in personal homes. Most are free to participate, and some require a small registration fee. Your doctor or nurse should be able to provide you with groups in your area.
Community groups are a fantastic way to meet people in your area that have the common bond of cancer with you. You can share tips, be a support for one another, and generally vent out frustrations with people who know exactly how you feel.
Many community groups are led by psychologists, or cancer specialists.
Here are cancer support groups that have nationally sponsored support meetings:
I Can Cope is a support program provided by the American Cancer Society. It is available in many cities nationwide. The program is designed for anyone affected by cancer- patients, friends, family, and caregivers.
The Cancer Hope Network is an organization the matches cancer patients with patients or survivors who have had similar experiences.
Gilda's Club was founded in honor of comedian Gilda Radner, who died of cancer. It is one of the best support groups available. Support is available for people of all ages, including children and teens. They currently operate in 25 cities nationwide, with hopes to open more "clubhouses" soon.
No matter which type of cancer support you choose, remember that emotional support and care is just as important as physical care. You don't have to feel isolated when having cancer. Having a good outlook on life and being optimistic is the goal of support groups, and this makes the cancer journey a lot easier.
