By Jan Cox
On some occasions, living in the mountains makes things a bit more difficult than living in the big city. One of these occasions may be getting to specialist appointments when someone discovers they have cancer. Another is finding a support system, both medical and psychosocial, that will help bring about healing. It is often much easier to find what we need in larger population areas.
Having spent time in Chico receiving cancer treatments, I found that there were many opportunities for support close by. I was able to attend a writer’s group that dealt with cancer concerns, an acupuncture clinic just for cancer patients, and a meeting that helped me deal with skin concerns due to medications. I also noted that there were active support group meetings for cancer patients. All of these activities took place at the Enloe Cancer Center. If you are in need of support and have plans to stay in Chico for any length of time, you might search these out on the internet at www.enloe.org. Or you may call the Cancer Support Center, 265 Cohasset Road, Chico, CA (530)332-3808. Information on housing is also available through Cancer Connections.
In the Almanor Basin, there is a cancer support group available in Chester sponsored by Sierra Hospice. It meets in the Educational Building Conference room near Seneca Healthcare District, 150 Brentwood Dr. Chester, on the second and fourth Thursdays from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Participants often bring their lunches and eat during the latter part of the meeting.
There are similar support groups in many areas and research evidence shows that survival rates increase in those who attend support groups. A cancer support group also offers a setting where the newly diagnosed, those being currently treated, and those who are in remission can meet together and talk about their experiences, struggles, joys, and healing. It offers a place where everyone present understands each other’s situation. It offers a place where cancer patients and survivors can learn more about their healing and return to wellness or where others receive support in their dying process.
The Chester group begins each meeting with a check in. New members, who can join the group at any time, are introduced and given time to share their stories. We all check in by letting others know what life has been like since the last meeting. If there is a new member, the rest of us quickly re-share our diagnosis in order to help the new member become an immediate part of the group.
Then we create a sharing circle and discuss a specific topic that relates to all of us. Such topics include how cancer has affected each of our lives and the lives of our family members, our coping techniques, and our various support systems that are part of our healing, including family, friends, medical and spiritual support systems. We explore complementary and alternative medical techniques, and we take a close look at emotions that can arise in this cancer journey and how to deal with them.
During circle time, each member has a chance to talk uninterrupted. Afterwards, we talk with each other as we eat lunch, have some coffee or tea, and relax. Books and other informational items are sometimes shared and discussed. Access to the Hospice library of books is available to participants.
Members come and go depending on their family plans, health, and work agendas. Newly diagnosed members will find support for the weeks ahead. Survivors have so much to give to others going through their therapies. All are welcome.
This group recently received a note from one of its members who left for the winter. It reads: “I am a recent cancer survivor and still have some side effects that I am dealing with. I joined this group with the idea that I could encourage others. To my surprise, I have found so much support and information on emotional feelings that I didn’t even know I had. So if you want: (1) mental and physical support, (2) to learn more about cancer, treatment and side effects, (3) find what you can do to help yourself, and (4) make new friends, come join us. You will love it!”
For more information call: Jan Cox 256-2119 or Janis Davies 310-1956 (facilitators). You may also receive information from www.sierrahospice.com.
Hospice is a nationwide organization with chapters throughout many locations. Check your local phone directory for Hospice care near you. On line, find them at www.HospiceCare.com.
You can also stop by Banner Lassen Medical Center in Susanville or your local hospital for literature and information on cancer support services in your area.
