A cancer diagnosis can instill fear and a sense aloneness.
But a support group that meets at the Canadian Cancer Society every month can help alleviate those and other concerns for women with cancer and caregivers.
“The group provides a safe place, a place where everything that’s being said is confidential, where people understand what others are going through, express concerns and help each other with their suggestions,” says facilitator Tovie Green. “For caregivers, it’s a place to express their issues and get feedback.”
Oftentimes, what arises is not so much about the disease, but about what’s going on in their lives at an emotional and sensitive time, says Green.
The group meets for anywhere from one to two-and-a-half hours depending on attendance, and includes a cup of tea and a snack, providing a social aspect as well.
Housed in the back room are a number of wigs and prostheses available to help women deal with the physical aspects of the disease.
“This is a huge service the Canadian Cancer Society provides,” says Green.
“Wigs, bras and prosthetics are available by donation, but if money’s an issue, people can have it anyway.”
The group is always open, with a very simple format, and members are encouraged to come and go as they need.
“Some people have been attending for more than 15 years,” she says. “Someone else might come once and not come back because that’s all they needed.”
Green, who obtained initial training through the Canadian Cancer Society, is a certified life coach.
The group meets on the first Monday of the month at noon, but Green suggests people call first to make sure there are no changes.
For more information, call the Canadian Cancer Society at 250-833-4334.