Support Groups
Although many cancer survivors have a strong network of family and friends eager to provide support, they may not fully understand what it is like to cope with a cancer diagnosis. That’s why Cancer Services offers support groups each month for cancer patients and survivors to share their stories with one another. Some are specific to the type of cancer, others are offered in outlying parishes, some are even for patients’ families and friends, helping them learn about the disease and connect with others who have loved ones living with cancer.
When one joins a cancer support group, one can:
- Share questions, concerns and feelings
- Connect with others who understand
- Enhance your knowledge and understanding of your type of cancer
- Reduce your level of stress and anxiety
- Increase your coping skills
- Develop a sense of well-being
Helpful Links
COUNSELING
Counseling is an effective tool used by many individuals from all walks of life seeking to improve their emotional and physical health. Any cancer diagnosis is stressful, and counseling can be very effective in learning how to cope with a new situation. With the help of a trained counselor, one can learn how to best manage the numerous issues that emerge during and after cancer treatment, issues faced by the cancer survivor and concerned family members. Clients and family members are each allowed six free sessions of counseling. We provide counselling in house with our licensed social workers or can make referrals to partner agencies. Call 225-927-2273 for more information.
REIKI
Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by laying hands on patients and is based on the idea that an unseen “life force energy” flows through us and causes us to be alive. If one’s energy is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy. A session feels like wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and around you. Reiki treats the whole person—including body, emotions, mind, and spirit—creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security and well-being. Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of spiritual healing. It also works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery.
By appointment only. Call 225-927-2273.
