Posted 3 years 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.
Chemo Chat (Online) – Join our Registered Dietitians, Lauren Duda and Brenda Gridley, as well as our Integrative Oncologist, Dr. Heidi Rula, as they provide an open platform for questions and answers about nutrition and managing side effects during chemotherapy. Whether you have been recently diagnosed with cancer or are a loved one assisting, all are welcome to join. Meets on the 1st Thursday from 12-12:30pm.
Breast Cancer Support Group (Chandler) – 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. Our East Valley Breast Cancer Group meets the first Wednesday of the month from 6-8pm and meets in person at our Chandler office.
Breast Cancer Support Group (Online) – 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. Our Online Breast Cancer Group meets the second Saturday of the month from 10am-12pm.
Head & Neck Cancer Support Group (Online) – For those that may be struggling to find or use their voice, Zoom makes in convenient to communicate via the chat function. Come join us and connect. Meets on the 3rd Thursday from 1pm- 2:30pm.
Prostate Cancer Support Group (Online and Chandler) – 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 6-8pm.
Young Adult Cancer Support Group (Online) – Join us monthly in creating a community of young adults, similar in age and struggles. If you are age 18-35 and have been diagnosed with cancer, this is the group for you. Group topics may include fertility, social media, school, work, and dating. Meets online on the 3rd Monday from 5:30-7:30pm.
