The Chestnut Hill Hospital Cancer Program recognizes the importance of supporting people who are affected by a cancer diagnosis. Our oncology social worker, Patricia Wakefield, LCSW is available to assist patients and family members in coping with the physical and psychological challenges of the diagnosis and treatment of cancer as well as helping children and other family members understand and adapt to the changes in their lives.
The opportunity to connect with other individuals living with cancer is often comforting and encouraging to patients. The opportunity to interact with other survivors is available to patients through the many support groups and educational programs that we offer. currently hosts the following support groups:
Breast Cancer Networking Group: A support group for women diagnosed with breast cancer to share their experiences. This group is held on the fourth Tuesday of every month from 5:30 – 7 PM in William’s Conference Room.
Look Good, Feel Better: A free program offered two to three times a year that teaches beauty techniques to women who are actively undergoing cancer treatment to help them cope with the appearance-related side effects of radiation and chemotherapy. Licensed cosmetologists who have been specially trained to teach this course facilitate the program with the oncology social worker. Each participant practices these techniques by using products donated by the cosmetics industry. This program is sponsored by the American Cancer Society, the National Cosmetology Association and the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association.
Reach to Recovery: A peer support program, lead by the American Cancer Society, that uses carefully selected and trained volunteers who have fully adjusted to their breast cancer surgery and treatment experience to serve as a resource to a newly diagnosed person. A patient is carefully matched with an appropriate volunteer who can provide information on the diagnosis of breast cancer, lumpectomy and mastectomy surgeries, breast reconstruction, lymphedema, chemotherapy and radiation treatments or women living with metastatic breast cancer.
Caregiver Luncheons: A program that focuses on the challenges faced by caregivers and teaches caregivers how to replenish and care for themselves. Co-sponsored by the Cancer Foundation for Personal Wellness.
Journaling Workshop: A four week program that will guide participants to write about their experience with cancer, their struggles, insights and goals while using music and imagery to facilitate the writing process. Members will learn how to use a journal in everyday life to reflect their thoughts and feelings. Sponsored by the Cancer Foundation for Personal Wellness.
Art Therapy Workshop: Participants will explore their thoughts and feelings and find support through artistic means.