Cancer Lifeline Support Groups & Classes | |
Celebrating Black History Month | |
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In recognition of Black History Month, we celebrate Cancer Lifeline’s BIPOC Cancer Support Group, a beacon of hope and understanding within the wider healthcare landscape. Hosted every 4th Saturday of the month via Zoom, this group provides a vital space for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) individuals navigating a cancer diagnosis and their loved ones.
The BIPOC support group signifies understanding the unique challenges faced by diverse communities within the healthcare system. These challenges range from implicit bias and cultural insensitivity to barriers in accessing quality care and language services. These systemic hurdles contribute to healthcare disparities, leading to higher cancer mortality
rates and delayed diagnoses among BIPOC communities. For example: "African Americans experience more illness, worse outcomes, and premature death compared to whites.” (American Cancer Society). The support group, spearheaded by two wonderful BIPOC women Trenecia & Shavon, fosters a safe and confidential environment for BIPOC individuals facing cancer, from diagnosis to survivorship. Whether sharing personal challenges, celebrating milestones, or simply offering a listening ear, the group empowers participants to find strength and community in the face of adversity.
Shavon and Veronica, two BIPOC women who work for Cancer Lifeline, recognize and appreciate the culture of belonging and security that originates with each meeting.
"Our support group offers a unique space where BIPOC individuals can connect with others who understand the specific challenges they face, free from judgment or stigma. It's about creating a support system that reflects their lived experiences and cultural nuances." ~Trenescia, BIPOC Support Group Facilitator
Looking ahead to 2024, Shavon is committed to enhancing the group's offerings. Plans include inviting guest speakers specializing in BIPOC cancer care, hosting guest speakers, partnering with local healthcare providers, hosting virtual workshops on coping mechanisms and navigating the healthcare system and offering additional resources tailored to specific needs. "Assisting with the BIPOC support group is an honor that allows me to empower individuals facing cancer within a community often experiencing unique healthcare disparities. Witnessing the resilience and courage of fellow BIPOC individuals navigating cancer journeys inspires me deeply, reminding me of the power of community and the importance of advocating for equitable healthcare access. This role allows me to not only contribute but also learn, grow, and connect with others on a profound level, enriching my life and perspective in ways I wouldn't have imagined.”
Veronica noticed the lack of BIPOC representation in support groups during her family member's cancer journey that ignited a passion within her. "This dedicated space for shared experiences and struggles brings immense joy, knowing the profound impact it has on our community. Joining this organization to empower the BIPOC community feels incredibly fulfilling, allowing me to contribute and grow alongside others in meaningful ways."
We are an organization committed to advancing the rights and well-being of BIPOC communities. Our goal is to create a platform that fosters inclusivity, equity, and empowerment for individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. Together, we can dismantle healthcare disparities and empower BIPOC individuals to thrive in their cancer journeys.
Visit our website to learn more and get involved. Remember, strength lies in unity. Let's stand together to build a more equitable healthcare system for all.
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Remembering Nancy Bell Evans | |
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Nancy Evans, former First Lady of Washington, died on January 26 from a fourth recurrence of breast cancer. Her death is a loss to so many people in our state, but a tremendous loss for our Cancer Lifeline community. She has been involved in Cancer Lifeline in one way or another since 1981.
Nancy Evans and Barbara Frederick (Cancer Lifeline’s beloved Executive Director of 23 years) and their husbands, met in a Bridge Club in 1967. When Barbara became Cancer Lifeline’s Executive Director in 1981, Nancy was her good friend and wise counsel.
Nancy was the Founder and Chair of the Friends of Cancer Lifeline Committee from 1989. This group provided support and fundraising help to Cancer Lifeline for many years. They were instrumental in raising funds for the building Cancer Lifeline purchased and settled into in 1999. When Barbara retired from Cancer Lifeline in 2005, the Friends of Cancer Lifeline initiated a major fundraising effort, in honor of Barbara, to ensure Cancer Lifeline’s future financial success.
The Friends of Cancer Lifeline was re-established in 2012 as the Cancer Lifeline Advisory Board. Nancy continued with her commitment to Cancer Lifeline by being an honorary but active member of the Advisory Board until her death. She seldom missed a meeting, a fundraising luncheon or breakfast, or a Resources for Hope event raising money for the Patient Financial Assistance Fund. She was a treasured colleague, trusted advisor, and dear friend to all of us. She showed up, did what she said she would do, and offered thoughtful suggestions. She asked the difficult questions that made us all stronger.
Nancy was honored to receive the Caregiver of the Year Award in 2007, and the Barbara Frederick Award from Cancer Lifeline in 2016.
All of us at Cancer Lifeline will miss Nancy’s wisdom, laughter and deep friendship. Members of the Advisory Board described her as one of a kind, feisty, remarkable, a treasured colleague, a shining light and beautiful spirit. We are so thankful her life of service included Cancer Lifeline. Nancy was a wonderful human and was so dear to Cancer Lifeline and those of us who were fortunate to get to work with her.
It’s truly special that her family chose Cancer Lifeline as one of the options for memorial donations. That was Nancy…a loyal and true friend to the end.
Lynn Behar
Chair, Cancer Lifeline Advisory Board
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Monthly Blog: Embracing Self Care & Self Love | |
Living with cancer can be an overwhelming journey that brings forth physical, emotional, and mental challenges. In the midst of medical treatments and uncertainties, it’s crucial for cancer patients to prioritize self-care and self-love. Nurturing one’s well-being can play a significant role in enhancing the overall quality of life during this challenging time. Let’s explore the importance of self-care and self-love for cancer patients and offer practical tips for incorporating these practices into daily life. Self-care is a holistic approach to maintaining and improving one’s health, encompassing physical, emotional, and mental well-being. For cancer patients, focusing on self-care is not only about managing the symptoms and side effects of treatments but also about fostering a positive mindset and enhancing resilience. Read More. | |
Get to know Board Member Reetu Ghumman | |
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What sparked your interest in joining Cancer Lifeline’s Board of Directors? I had been on the search for the right opportunity and cause to join an organization that aligned with my personal values, skills and experience for some time. I had recently completed a board training program at United Way and was ambitious to get to work with the knowledge and skills I had gained. I had the pleasure to work with our long time board member and friend, Susan Drummond. She invited our entire work team to a Cancer Lifeline event. While
I was unable to attend the event, I got to learn about the important work being done and was intrigued. I quickly set up some time to chat with Sue about the organization. Shortly after she set up a meet and greet with Joseph, and well, the rest as they say is history. I knew from the moment I entered the Dorothy ‘O Brien center, this was going to be a good fit for me. I couldn’t be more proud to serve on the Board of Directors for an organization that centers around providing support to cancer patients and families.
How long have you been volunteering with Cancer Lifeline as a Board Member and what is your role? I joined the board in the summer of 2019. I’ve had the pleasure of serving on the planning committee for what is now called Fundraising with Friends. In 2021, I co-chaired with Susan Drummond and navigated transitioning our in person events to a virtual platform and continue to be a part of the planning committee.
What do you find most fulfilling about serving on the Board of Directors? Being a part of something that is greater than all of us. All of our Board of Directors wear many hats in their day to day. However, we are all committed to coming together and being a part of a process to ensure what is in the best interest of the organization. My personal experiences have shown me the importance of accessing the right support during a family member’s cancer diagnosis. Cancer Lifeline’s ability to provide that support in any way big or small is something that is meaningful to me and the entire Board of Directors. I will also add that serving with Directors from different walks of life and professional backgrounds has been a wonderful way to connect with members of my community.
How has your life been affected by cancer? I lost my mother to lung cancer in 2006. It was a shock, and steep learning curve for myself and my family to navigate the cancer continuum. As a first generation American, I found myself providing medical interpretation for my mother and explaining the goal of chemotherapy in a different language. This experience ultimately led me to my day job at Fred Hutch Cancer Center. Over the years, like many of us I’ve had family and friends manage cancer diagnoses and it is very important to connect patients and families to resources and support.
What do you see as the biggest needs cancer patients and caregivers have?
The needs of cancer patients and their caregivers can vary widely depending on the individual's specific situation, the type of cancer, and the stage of the disease. However, some common needs include: emotional support, information and education, financial assistance, practical support, access to quality healthcare, advocacy and empowerment, supportive care services and communication and decision-making support.
Please tell us about your “Day Job” I am employed at Fred Hutch Cancer Center here in Seattle, WA. My current role is as Budget Analyst for the National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Information Service. I’ve been with the organization for 14 years and am grateful to be part of an organization dedicated to treating and defeating cancer.
Tell us something about yourself that you’d like to share in general.
In my down time I enjoy reading, playing badminton and spending time with our fun-loving four year old. It’s never a dull moment in our house. We bleed purple and gold, go Dawgs!
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Get to know Volunteer Susan | |
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Susan began volunteering with Cancer Lifeline as a Board Director about five years ago. As a retired oncology nurse and a cancer survivor herself, she could relate to many of the challenges cancer patients and their families face and wanted to give back however she could. Navigating through a sarcoma diagnosis at the age of 22 was an incredibly lonely and difficult journey for Susan, and she is proud to be part of an organization that has support that is tailored to young adults.
“Helping someone is always fulfilling, and it's a privilege to be a part of this amazing organization.”
Her decision to start volunteering on the Lifeline about a year ago was driven by a desire to provide support to others navigating the same path. One of Susan’s favorite things about being a volunteer are the personal connections she’s made between herself and the other Board Directors, Cancer Lifeline staff, and those who reach out via the Lifeline or chat. Each conversation is an opportunity to uplift someone’s spirit, provide guidance, or simply listen.
A fun fact about Susan: She loves listening to music and has fond memories of singing to the oldies while she cooked dinner with her children when they were little. She also loves dancing and does it often, which won’t surprise anyone who has seen her lighting up the dance floor at Cancer Lifeline events. Her children, who now are adults with their own children, still fondly remember the kitchen dancing and singing!
Interested in becoming a volunteer with us? Learn more about opportunities here.
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Tami received a shocking call at 8 am on a Friday, the first week of school, Sept 2019, saying she had Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL.) It is a very aggressive cancer, so she was already scheduled to be at the hospital by 11 am that day to begin chemotherapy…. oh, and pack a bag as she wouldn’t be coming home soon. Fortunately, the nurses didn’t snicker as she unpacked her curling iron, workout gear, and make-up. She had no idea she would stay in that room until November, and then on and off again until she received a bone marrow transplant in July. She was exhausted, had no immune system, COVID was raging, and she was facing at least another year of treatment in total isolation. Thankfully Cancer Lifeline came into her life!!! She signed up for every online class offered, even though she was barely conscious many days, just to see another human being.
"The Saturday morning Women’s Support group has been incredible throughout, understanding my demons and tears; now celebrating my joy as I cautiously step back into the world."
The class she never misses is Vital Moves with instructor Meryl. When she was confined to bed, unable to move, just her smile and the incredible music always summoned the joy of happier days. As she was recovering, the movements helped clear her lungs & built strength so she could walk again, and even helped bring her fingers back to life. She is the first to say that while Meryl is not a doctor, she can work miracles!! "Now if only she could teach me which foot is my right and which is my left."
Interested in sharing your story with others impacted by cancer? Click Here.
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Program Spotlight: In Person Nutrition Class returns to EvergreenHealth March 15th 12:30-2:30pm | |
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We are so excited to be returning to EvergreenHealth on Friday, March 15th and thrilled to be back in the kitchen for our first in-person nutrition class in nearly four years featuring the nutritional benefits of eating Mediterranean Cuisine.
Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, in-person cooking classes offer a unique and interactive way to learn about healthy nutritional choices and enhance your culinary skills in our shared community. We know that learning which foods to avoid and include in your daily meals, can help boost your immune system, increase energy and keep inflammation at bay- all of which is empowering to those living with cancer. Experience the joy of cooking and the culinary experience with others again!
Although the online format has allowed us to continue these classes while Ami invited us into her kitchen, she is looking forward to clients being able to see, smell & taste some samples of her amazing recipes. We'll explain the nutrients & why eating these can be beneficial to your health. Come with questions, leave with great meal ideas.
Erin, one of our clients shared, "I am so looking forward to attending the in-person nutrition class on Mediterranean Foods! Ami is fantastic at presenting & it only enhances the experience to be able to not only watch her create & educate but smell & taste her recipes. Space is limited, so please register today by clicking here.
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Join Our Team Of Fundraising Champions | |
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We're looking for passionate individuals like you to become Fundraising Champions for Cancer Lifeline’s annual spring fundraiser, Fundraising with Friends. This fundraiser is vital in ensuring that our programs and services remain free and accessible to all.
As a Fundraising Champion, you'll have the opportunity to raise vital funds for Cancer Lifeline through the power of crowdfunding.
It's simple – we’ll help you create your own personal fundraising website and you will share it with your friends, family, and social networks. By becoming a Fundraising Champion, you will:
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Make a meaningful impact: Your efforts will help keep Cancer Lifeline programs like Mental Health Counseling, Lifeline & Lifeline Chat, and support groups free and available to anyone affected by cancer.
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Spread awareness: Through your fundraising efforts, you'll help raise awareness about Cancer Lifeline and the programs and services we provide.
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Empower others: By engaging your network, you'll inspire others to join as Fundraising Champions and make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.
Please consider joining us in our mission to bring strength, dignity, and hope to all those affected by cancer. Click on the link below for more information.
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Double Your Impact With Workplace Matching | |
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Did you know that many workplaces offer donation matching programs? By participating in your company's donation matching program, you can double the impact of your contribution to Cancer Lifeline. Check with your employer today to see if they offer donation matching and help us make an even greater difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.
Questions? Contact deserie@cancerlifeline.org
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Sponsor Spotlight: Farmers Insurance Agency | | |
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With over 25 years in the insurance industry, local Farmers Insurance agent Jennifer Evans has the knowledge and experience to help you better understand your coverage options - whether that's auto, home, life, commercial and more! We thank Jennifer Evans and Farmers Insurance for your ongoing support that helps optimize the quality of life for all people living with cancer through FREE educational presentations, experiential classes, financial assistance, and personalized emotional support.
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Our Sponsors Make It Possible
Cancer Lifeline is grateful for the leadership and support of the following sponsors:
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We began our formal hospital partnership with Overlake Medical Center in September of 2017, but our relationship reaches back to 2004 when Cancer Lifeline had office space in Bellevue. We are grateful for Overlake's ongoing support of our events. | |
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Thank you to Seattle Children’s for their support! They provide patient care, advance new discoveries and treatments through pediatric research and they serve as the pediatric and adolescent academic medical center for Washington, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho – the largest region of any children’s hospital in the country.
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As we expand our services to serve cancer patients and their families in Pierce County, Cancer Lifeline is grateful for our collaboration with Northwest Medical Specialties and for
their support.
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Cancer Lifeline thanks myMDadvocate and Dr. Susan Baumgaertel for her ongoing support. myMDadvocate is a virtual consultation service serving patients as an advocate, guide, advisor, coach, resource, consultant, collaborator, educator, navigator, and partner.
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We are grateful for the support of the Fred Hutch Cancer Center organization on so many levels - for our current Board Directors who are on the staff at Fred Hutch: Joanna Diallo, and Reetu Ghumman, and for their sponsorship!
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Over 18 years ago, Cancer Lifeline was invited to host a support group at EvergreenHealth. That was just the beginning of our strong partnership. Cancer Lifeline thanks Evergreen for their continued support.
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The Commerce Bank of Washington has enriched local businesses with highly personalized banking from local, experienced bankers dedicated to long-term relationships. We are grateful for the ongoing partnership which began in 1995.
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Cancer Lifeline thanks wealth advisor, D A Davidson as an event sponsor. Our thanks to Advisory Board Member Jane Caron for her leadership.
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We thank Genentech as one of our sponsors. While this biotechnology corporation is committed to advancing science for the greater good, they are also committed to supporting our local cancer community.
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We welcome Seagen as one of our newest sponsors. They've been focusing on accelerating breakthroughs to transform cancer care and impact in patients lives for 25 years. We appreciate their support and passion for helping those living with cancer. | |
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We welcome back Royal Bank of Canada Wealth Management as a sponsor. We appreciate working together to support and serve those affected by cancer.
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Cancer Lifeline thanks Windermere Foundation for their support. The Windermere Foundations commitment to building thriving communities has helped them grow into one of the largest and most respected real estate brands in the country, with more than 300 offices and 7,000 agents throughout the Western U.S. and Mexico.
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A huge thank you to Safeco Liberty Mutual Insurance for their support. Since 1923, they have been in the business of protecting families and individuals, making it simple to protect what matters to you most.
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One of Cancer Lifeline's hospital partners, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has locations in both downtown Seattle and Federal Way. Cancer Lifeline is grateful for Virginia Mason's sponsorship of our events.
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Reaching as far back as 2006, Pathstone
(formerly Cornerstone Advisors) has been a steadfast sponsor of Cancer Lifeline's events.
Our thanks for their continued support
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One Dog Media helps businesses with website design that reinforce brand identity, e-commerce solutions, graphic design and more. We thank Lisa Oliver, in-kind sponsor, for this important work that allows us to reach and stay connected with the people we serve.
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Inquiries regarding opportunities to sponsor events and programs can be directed
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