Outside the Hospital The American Cancer Society and other professional organizations have programs that help deal with physical, emotional and mental problems associated with having cancer. The Reach to Recovery program for women with breast cancer and the I Can Cope program of weekly seminars are two examples. Both include a comprehensive educational process for cancer patients and their families.
The Wellness Community is another example of an organization devoted to improving the quality of life of people with cancer. It features educational programs, seminars, discussion groups and the opportunity for everyone with cancer to relate to others with the same fears and worries. Many people find the approach of this rapidly expanding organization—which encourages you to become an active participant in your fight for recovery—extremely helpful ( see Coping with Treatment ).
Depending where you live, there also may be organizations designed to meet the needs of young adults who do not always feel comfortable in other support organizations. An organization called Vital Options, for example, meets these needs. This organization started in Los Angeles and is rapidly expanding nationally.
How the Groups Work There are great advantages to taking part in a group when you feel well enough to participate. A group of people in circumstances similar to yours can offer companionship and the chance to discuss many concerns and feelings.
How the support groups are designed and structured and what they cover vary. But they all have in common the gathering together of people with similar experiences. In these groups:
