Cancer Services’ After Hours Support Group, founded in 2011 for those who work or receive treatment during the day, has further evolved to better meet the needs of our clients. Meetings held every Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. will now feature special topics or presentations to cater to those unique needs. These topics include special education sessions for the newly diagnosed and a chance for young adult cancer survivors to meet with peers.
The first Wednesday of each month will be “An Introduction to a Cancer Diagnosis.” These meetings will benefit anyone wishing to acquaint themselves with the facts and vocabulary of cancer and its treatments. Director of Support Programs Esther Sachse, LCSW, explains, “The newly diagnosed cancer survivor has an immediate need for accurate information regarding their cancer diagnosis and treatment options.” Dr. Andrew Lauve, an oncologist at The Pennington Cancer Center at Baton Rouge General, adds, “Lack of knowledge during a diagnosis or treatment is a huge struggle for many patients. It’s important for them to get as many resources as possible so they can absorb the information they need.” In addition to educational events like these, Cancer Services also offers a full Library/Research Center.
Third Wednesdays cater to the needs of young adults aged 18-44 living with, through and beyond cancer. This group gives them the opportunity to meet with those who can empathize with the struggles of balancing cancer with family, work and social lives. Adult Programs Coordinator Natalie Depp, LCSW, facilitates the group and explains the need, “Young adults need support from their peers going through the same things. We provide an atmosphere where they can develop new friendships while sharing information, experiences, fears and hopes.”
Second and fourth Wednesdays host a traditional support group, open to anyone in the community dealing with any type of cancer. For more information about Cancer Services’ Support Program, call 225-927-2273.
