Patient and Family Support
Click here for a complete listing of RMH classes and events.
A number of support groups are available to help patients and families cope with the changes resulting from cancer diagnosis or treatment. To register for any of the groups listed below call Elaine Dunaway, LCSW at (540) 433-4249.
You Can Live Well!This is a six-week program offered three times a year for cancer survivors and their caregivers. The group is designed to help lower the distress associated with a diagnosis of cancer, cancer treatment, care giving and survivorship. Based on an evidence based program from Stanford University- Chronic Disease Prevention: www.vdh.virginia.gov. Next group begins in February 2010, Mondays from 4:00-6:30pm. A workbook is provided.
Prepare For Surgery Heal WellThis is a one-one-on-one session that teaches persons to prepare for surgery mentally, spiritually and physically. Participants will learn to use mind-body techniques to relieve anxiety, reduce the need for pain medications, and heal faster following surgery. The cost is $35 to cover a book and CD.
Includes 5 steps:
- Calm pre surgery jitters
- Visualize recovery by turning worries into positive images
- Surround yourself in the love of family and friends
- Use “healing statements” – spoken during surgery
- Establish supportive doctor- patient relationships
Prepare For Treatment Heal WellSimilar to Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster, this program is aimed at preparing the patient to cope with the treatment of a cancer diagnosis. A one hour session is available to assist a patient in preparing for treatment. Persons learn to turn anxiety into positive images. Cost is $35 to cover the cost of a book and CD.
Facing Forward- Survivorship ProgramThe completion of cancer treatment can be an anxious time. RMH offers a survivorship program that helps persons transition back to life as a cancer survivor. The goal is to provide education and reduce recurrence. It is offered the first 4 Wednesdays of the month at 4pm. A person can start at anytime. Topics are:
- What’s “Normal” after treatment. This session includes a survivors’ personalized wellness plan.
- Nutrition
- Managing Symptoms
- Emotional Wellness
Leukemia & Lymphoma Family Support Group
The Cancer Center collaborates with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) to provide a family support group for anyone affected by blood cancer. The group is facilitated by a mental health professional and oncology-certified nurse with extensive cancer and group work experience. Facilitators are prepared to handle sensitive issues such as loss, guilt, treatment questions and family stressors. The group meets the first Thursday of each month at 4 p.m. in the RMH West Tower.
Man to Man
This American Cancer Society (ACS) program is for men with prostate cancer and their families. The group provides education, support and awareness about prostate cancer. Man to Man meets the third Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m., at the local ACS office at 1920 H Medical Avenue. For more information call the American Cancer Society at 540-434-3360. |