Fear of the unknown is the greatest obstacle cancer patients face after initial diagnosis and start of treatment. Some answers can be found by meeting with other patients who have successfully conquered cancer. From sharing common problems comes common solutions.
The Saint Francis / Mount Sinai Regional Cancer Center has several programs designed to assist cancer patients and their families.
The many support groups at Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center offer a safe place to talk, as well as to listen and learn from one another.
This group is for anyone with a cancer diagnosis.
Our support groups provide people with cancer and caregivers with a place to explore ways of coping with the stress of a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Our licensed clinicians help support group participants learn how to take an active role in their own health and well-being. Attendance at an orientation session is required prior to joining a group.
This group is for all patients facing cancer. The meeting enables participants to share experiences and express feelings and concerns. All cancer patients, family members and caregivers are welcome to attend. Meets weekly on Thursday from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., see calendar for conference room details. Video enabled attendance available. Patients can access remotely and join from any video-enabled device (smart phone, iPad, laptop, or webcam/desktop). Upon registering, you will receive instructions on how to virtually connect.
Registration required.
For adult patients with leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, myeloma or myelodysplastic syndromes and their family and friends. The group meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at 5:15 p.m. in the suite 450 conference room of Stoddard. For information, call (515) 241-8505.
General Cancers- patients/survivors & supporters
Ongoing groups for women recently diagnosed with breast cancer, those still undergoing treatment, and those who have completed treatment. Women may join at any time. REGISTRATION is required for new participants.
Moakley 3rd Floor Conference Room
A small group for women who have experienced any type of cancer. Female family members and supporters are welcome. The group provides an opportunity to check in with one another and discuss cancer diagnoses, treatment, post-treatment, and lifestyle concerns. Participants learn from, support, and encourage each other. Generally 4 to 6 attend the meeting. Continental breakfast and parking validation are provide
Site-specific support groups provide the opportunity for cancer survivors to meet other survivors with a similar diagnosis. Meetings are held once monthly and last approximately one hour. All noon meetings are served lunch and take place at Cancer Services unless otherwise specified.