There are more than 14.5 million cancer survivors living in the United States. A cancer survivor is anyone living with a history of cancer – from the moment of diagnosis through the remainder of life. National Cancer Survivors Day in the month of June is a great opportunity to recognize and connect with survivors, celebrate milestones and recognize those who have supported them along the way.
We had a lot to celebrate at the Sue Ann Wortman Cancer Center in June. It was the one year anniversary of the opening of our beautiful facility.
We are so fortunate to have a caring community that helped build our facility which is so welcoming for our patients and their loved ones. From the moment you arrive, you are greeted by friendly valet staff, smiling volunteers and our passionate and caring staff. The facility highlights beautiful lighting, textured walls and comfortable furniture. Of note is the stunning water wall and the colorful glass flowers that make up our donor wall. It’s a true garden of love and hope from our generous community. Hearing the words “you have cancer” is probably one of the scariest things to hear. Having such a beautiful facility with such compassionate staff and volunteers certainly helps ease one’s journey.
We certainly strive to support and care for our patients and their loved ones. Our staff work together to offer state of the art treatment in a safe and comfortable environment.
Besides our incredible treatment staff in Radiation Oncology and Medical Oncology, we are fortunate to have several services to help our patients and their loved ones along their journey:
- Boutique Services: offers a comfortable place to shop for items to help with healing: wigs, swimwear, post-surgical garments, compression sleeves, as well as prosthesis and bras billable to insurance. We are fortunate to have a Certified Mastectomy Fitter on staff too.
- Massage Therapy: we have a massage therapist on site every other Monday, offering a complimentary massage to new patients, as well as hand massages in the chemotherapy area.
- Dietary Services: we have registered dietitians who introduce themselves to newly diagnosed patients so they know who to contact for nutritional concerns. They are here to meet with patients and help with nutritional needs throughout treatment.
- Financial Counseling: our Financial Counselor is here to help patients with financial concerns, medication expenses, etc. She has extensive experience in local and national patient grants, drug replacement and drug co-pay assistance.
- Patient Navigation: we also have RN Patient Navigators in Medical Oncology and Radiation Oncology. They are here to work collaboratively with patients and our medical team; ensuring patients understand their treatment recommendations and help manage their care.
- Social Services: we have an Oncology Social Worker who facilitates our support groups, assists patients with resources, addresses emotional needs and oversees our Support Programs.
Recently we have added a variety of Support Programs to help patients and loved ones along their journey. Here is a sampling of the programs we offer, all free of charge:
- Cancer Support Group: offered weekly and open to all adult cancer patients who are in treatment or have completed treatment.
- Caregiver Support Group: offered weekly and open to all adults caring for a loved one.
- Mindfulness for Health: offered twice a month to learn how to lessen stress, enhance calm, and try simple techniques for maintaining a positive attitude and practicing self-care.
- Creative Imagery for Health: offered once a month to learn how the images we hold in our minds can help us find a sense of stability and peace.
- Gentle Stretch Yoga: open to cancer patients and loved ones. Slow and gentle yoga movements to help relax your body and mind.
- Art Workshops: offered the third Friday of each month and open to patients and caregivers. This is a great place to relax and create something fun.
- Look Good Feel Better: a wonderful program from the American Cancer Society for women in active cancer treatment. They address skin care, makeup, tips on wig selection and care, nail care and how to style with turbans, scarves and hats.
Offered every other month.
For more information, or to get involved with any of our Support Programs, please contact Dwayne Kniola by e-mailing dkniola@hancockregional.org.