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Greetings UCSF,

Each New Day

Embrace each new day with a sense of renewal and vitality,

just like the arrival of Spring.

Approach each moment with a fresh perspective,

ready to discover new opportunities and possibilities.

Let the beauty of each new day inspire you

to grow, learn, and create a life filled with joy and fulfillment.

-Unknown

Unsplash photo by Elena Rabkina

The Patient and Family Cancer Support Center

We want you to know that we are here for you!

Walk-In Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday

10:00 am – 4:00 pm

(However, stop by anytime the doors are open)

Come see the many resources and support services available to you and your family members.
Come and visit a comfortable resting area.
Come check your MyChart or emails.
Or stop by just to say Hi.

If you happen to miss us, we may be reached by e-mail at CancerSupportCenter@ucsf.edu or by phone at 415-885-3693. Our Social Workers are available to help you navigate the challenges you may be facing, we have a wonderful Peer Support Program, and our Psycho-Oncologists are conducting therapy sessions online, via Zoom.

~Happy Spring~

The Patient and Family Cancer Support Center Team

are here for you!

Please Stop By

NEW PFCSC SERVICE:

Notary Services at the

Patient and Family Cancer Support Center (PFCSC)

PFCSC Notary is able to provide acknowledgment for patients who have completed Advance Health Care Directives (AHCD) at no cost.

The Notary's duty is to screen those signing documents for their true identity, their willingness to sign without duress or intimidation, and their awareness of the contents of the document or transaction (needed identification is listed below).

What are the requirements to get Notary Services at the PFCSC?

Patient must be a UCSF Cancer Center patient.
Patient must come to the PFCSC suite at UCSF Mission Bay (exceptions)
Patient must have a scheduled appointment with PFCSC Notary prior arriving to the PFCSC.

How do I schedule an appointment?

Clinic/Admin Staff or Social Worker will email Bernardo Diaz or the Patient & Family CSC

or call 415-885-3785 to get an appointment scheduled. You may also call or email.

Moment of Pawse: Meet Indy & friends!

2nd Mondays of the month

10:00am – 11:00am

(Days and times may vary depending on availability)

Are you feeling a little overwhelmed

and need a break?

What about taking a “Moment of Pawse”

to become pals with our volunteer pups. We have Indy, Lia, Jaycee, and a few others that would love to share a moment with you.

They would love to meet you onsite from

10:00 – 11:00am. (Sometimes longer)

They will be hanging around our PFCSC Lounge then make thier way to the floors, in the waiting areas and the infusion centers, greeting patients and staff.

The next face they want to see is yours!

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE:

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

Take a Peek

UCSF Offerings

- May 14th: The Prostate Cancer Journal Club | UCSF

Osher Center for Integrative Health

- Nature Medicine thru Virtual Forest Therapy Walk | Individual Sessions

- May 3rd, 10th, & 17th: Movement Medicine: Qigong Practices to Promote Health

- Apr 30th, May 14th, May 28th: Integrative Cancer Care Group Visits w Dr. Donald Abrams

UCSF MERI Center

- NOW 2nd Wednesdays - Poetic Medicine for the "Wounded Healer" (See New Day & Time)

- 1st & 3rd Tuesdays: Serious Illness Support Group

- Tuesdays: Loss, Losing & Loosening Poetic Medicine Group

COMMUNITY Offerings

- May 4th: BIG CLIMB San Francisco | Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

- May 22nd: Creating a Body Cancer Doesn’t Like | Anticancer

- May 15th: Reshaping the Possibilities: Exploring Breast Reconstruction Options | Sharsheret

- May 1st: Networking: Unlock New Opportunities | Cancer + Careers

- May 8th: Ovarian Cancer: The Emotional Toll of Treatment Decision Making | SHARE CS

- May 15th: Breast Cancer: What is Mindset and Does it Really Matters? | SHARE CS

- May 23rd: Black Women with Breast Cancer: Societal pressures & stressors | SHARE CS

- May 24th: Part II - Body Grief | SHARE CS

- May 12th-8th: 2024 HOPE WALK | Cancer Support Community

- May 7th-28th, Mondays: Art Series: Self-Forgiveness (Via Zoom) | BACC

- May 2nd & 4th, Saturdays: Breast and Ovarian: Post-Treatment Support Grp. | BACC

- May 14th: Group X – Leukemia & Lymphoma: How to Talk to Kids (En español) | PICKLES

________________________________________________________________

SAVE THE DATE

COMMUNITY

- JUN 1st: “Dear Cancer” Magazine Release Event | Stanford Health (In-person)

- JUN 5th: Webinar: Balancing Work & Nutrition | Cancer + Careers

- JUN 21st: 14th Annual National Conference on Work & Cancer | Cancer + Careers

- JUN 26th-27th: Getting Our Fair Share Conference: Race, Culture & Identity | SHARE CS

PLEASE NOTE:

SUPPORT GROUP CHANGES & NEW ADDITIONS:

See Section - SUPPORTING YOU WITH OTHERS

To register for these Programs & Events, please refer to that organization

below in the body of the newsletter under their names

UCSF or Community Programs, Events & Resources

COME AND VISIT US

Friend to Friend Specialty Shops

Come See Our New Things this Spring!

Friend to Friend @UCSF Mission Bay is a cozy little oasis specializing in cancer products such as wigs, mastectomy bras, camisoles, breast prostheses, and headwear.

Come be pampered by our nurturing staff, many of them cancer survivors themselves. They’re here to listen, answer questions and assist you in selecting a beautiful wig or a naturally shaped prosthesis in a warm and welcoming environment respectful of your dignity and privacy.

We also have a unique selection of comfortable clothes, books, journals, greeting cards and gifts for all ages. Please consider dropping by to meet us, see what we have to offer, and discuss how we can help you on your cancer journey.

Located in the lobby of the

UCSF Precision Cancer Medical Building

Mission Bay

1825 4th Street, M1220, San Francisco

(Left of the information desk).

Open Monday - Friday, 9:00 am – 4:30 pm

Making a Difference Story

Mandy Zhao, Chris Wilhite (F2F), Skylar Dang

Mandy Zhao (High School senior) and Skylar Dang (High School junior) are students at Balboa High School of San Francisco. In 2022, they brainstormed ways to support underserved communities, especially low income, people of color. As students from similar backgrounds, they started San Francisco Health Outreach for Public Equity (SF HOPE) as a way to support vulnerable communities that face health disparities. SF HOPE has many initiatives from providing free mental health kits to medical patients, free wellness kits to unhoused communities and even providing free wigs to low-income medical patients. Learn more about their project on sfhope.org!

Presenting,

Mandy Zhao, Executive Director and Skylar Dang, Associate Director

of SF HOPE.

Friend to Friend @UCSF Mount Zion

UCSF Mount Zion is our 2nd location. It is filled with gifts, personal accessories, sundries and snacks to make your cancer journey or workday a little easier.

Additionally, we have an excellent selection of UCSF logo wear jackets, vests, hoodies, and

t-shirts available for purchase by staff, patients, and the public.

Located in the lobby of the hospital

UCSF Mount Zion Campus

1600 Divisadero Street, San Francisco

Open Monday - Friday, 9:30 am – 4:00 pm

Stop by either shop... we can help you make the right selection!

'- PLENTY OF JOURNALS ARE AVAILABLE -

Michael Alperstein is the author of the

"Joyful Heart Gratitude Journal."

This is a 60-day challenge to relinquish negativity and increase joy. Check it out and purchase your copy for just $13.00 at the Friend to Friend Specialty Shops in the hospital lobbies at Mount Zion and Mission Bay.

This Spring is a good time to slow things down

and focus on your inner self.

A Gratitude Journal is a great gift for yourself or for someone seeking to find moments of overflowing joy.

We hope to see you soon!

And don't forget to visit our website at www.friend2friend.org!

Art for Recovery Offerings:

Due to popular patient demand, many of the Art for Recovery Program workshops have currently reached maximum capacity. Those requesting to enroll in a workshop that has reached maximum capacity, will be placed on a waitlist.

(These Online Zoom Sessions are for Patients)

Expressive Healing: An Online Music & Creativity Workshop

6 -Week Workshop | Online via Zoom

Wednesdays | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm

Facilitated by Ned Buskirk, Writer, AFR, and Patrice Haan, Harper

HeART and Music

Thursdays | 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Facilitated by Patrice Haan, AFR Harpist & Amy Van Cleve, Program Manager

Musical Oasis: Healing Music

Tuesdays | 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

Facilitated by Patrice Haan, AFR Harpist

Writing with Music Workshop for Men:

Creative Community Connection & Support

Tuesdays | 12:00 – 1:30 pm

Facilitated by Ned Buskirk, MA, Creative Writer & Jim Murdoch, Musician / AFR

Open Art Studio!!!7

Open Art Studio (NOW in Person)

Limited space. To reserve your spot, please email Amy Van Cleve

Wednesdays | 1:00 – 4:00 pm (Mount Zion Campus)

Facilitated by Amy Van Cleve, Director and Elias Medici, Administrative Assistant

Young Adults Arts Group

Online Workshop

Reserved for Ages 18-25

Tuesdays| 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Our Young Adult Arts Group is for patients ages 18-25 to build community through expressive arts. This group connects online and gathers in a safe space to share updates, projects and alleviate isolation. No skill or experience is required.

To register, please email ArtforRecovery@ucsf.edu

What's New?!?

Join Our Weekly In-Person or Online

Expressive Art Group!

Open Art Studio NOW OPEN at UCSF Berkeley Out Patient Center

Thursdays | 1:00 – 3:30 pm

Open Art Studio is a safe space for people dealing with cancer to connect creatively in person or online. No skill is required to participate. The art studio is stocked with a variety of free materials for creative expression. Each week our team will guide participants through art projects, poetry and live music to inspire and support. We invite any living with cancer at any stage to join us in the healing process of art making in community.

Let's make art and memories together!

Facilitated by:

Amy Van Cleve, Director of Art for Recovery

Patrice Haan, Healing Harpist

call 415-885-7225

Art for Recovery New Art Installation

UCSF Women's Health Center

AFR EXHIBIT

Art for Recovery Presents: SERENITY

This Exhibit is available

through August 3rd

Art for Recovery is proud to have this collaboration

with the UCSF National Center of Excellence

in Women's Health at Mount Zion for the next few months,

five floor art exhibition.

Women’s Health Art Show – Recapture

Thank you to everyone for a beautiful evening celebrating our featured artists in the UCSF Women's Health Center "Serenity" exhibition welcome reception. We are so grateful for our community of artists, families, musicians and volunteers that made this all possible.

The exhibition spans to five floors featuring eight female voices from Art for Recover

See the individual artist's names and the floors where their art will be displayed.

First Floor: Amanda Flaim

Third Floor: Barbara Carbone

Fourth Floor: Nanci Reese

Fifth Floor: Marla Pedersen

Sixth Floor: Mary Casey

Seventh Floor: Jenni Mork, Karen Koltonow & Charlotte Marie Vick

A big thank you to Nancy Elgort for providing us the opportunity to display our artwork with the UCSF community. Please stop by in the next few months, if you can.

A smile, warmth, inspiration, and sense of community is guaranteed.

When in the area, stop by and see the gallery display at the

UCSF Women's Health Center

2356 Sutter Street

Near the Mount Zion Campus

(Cross Street is Divisadero)

Stories of Art for Recovery:

A YouTube Series

Featuring Marla

Marla Pedersen | Cancer as a Revelation

Stories of Art for Recovery

Marla Pedersen was just 40 years old when she was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer. A longtime artist and teacher, she shares the revealing nature of a life-threatening diagnoses.

Marla channels her art to connect with a community for support that she never knew she needed.

To watch Marla's Story

Click Here

To support more videos like this, visit:

AFR Video Projects

Visit our AFR website

(Registration is Required for all AFR Offerings)

Please Pre-register by emailing Art for Recovery or call 415-885-7225.

All sessions are free of charge

We thank you for your continued support.

PROGRAMS & SEMINARS

The Prostate Cancer Journal Club

Tuesday, May 14th | 2:00 PM PDT / 5:00 PM EDT

(Free Webinar)

The Prostate Cancer Journal Club offers an opportunity for patients to hear directly from investigators about the groundbreaking research they are doing, while avoiding medical jargon and focused on the direct impact this research may have on patients’ treatments.

The upcoming Club meeting will host Stephen J. Freedland, M.D., Neal D. Shore, M.D., and Rana McKay, MD who will discuss game-changing findings from the EMBARK clinical trial for patients with high-risk disease and a rapidly rising PSA after primary therapy.

Prostate Cancer and Prostate Cancer Treatment

To learn about prostate cancer and its treatments for localized and advance prostate cancer, as well as how to deal with side effects go to our main site here. You will also find information on different diagnostic tools, treatment modalities, their side effects and ways to cope with them, active surveillance, and the most recent medical research in easy-to-understand language.

First Journal Club Webinar

A video recording of our first webinar, describing a 15 year randomized trial comparing surgery, radiation, and active surveillance, is available here, and the patient Q&A is available here.

View the first Journal Club Webinar with

Matthew Cooperberg, MD, MPH of UCSF: click image below

For the next Prostate Cancer Journal Club on May 14th

The Prostate Journal Club for Patients is hosted by UroToday,

the Prostate Cancer Foundation, and the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Urology Patient Advocates.

Lipstick Angels are offering their

Beauty & Wellness 101 classes with UCSF

Virtual setting via ZOOM Offered Quarterly

Taking a Summer Break

Our Next Beauty & Wellness Session

will be in the FALL

Thursday, September 19th

2:00 - 4:00pm

Come enhance and restore healthy skin and beauty

with Lipstick Angels & UCSF

Each participant will receive a “complimentary, personalized, specially curated bag” of non-toxic makeup and skincare supplies to use during the class for the fully interactive experience.

The course includes:

• Aromatherapy & guided breathing

• Skincare basics

• Self-care tips

• Makeup tutorials (including eyebrow shaping)

*Required to participate: See below

“Come and enjoy this awesome experience and give yourself the pampering you deserve!”

Take a peek at what you may experience:

Class Video

*Patients must be under the care of a UCSF Cancer Center provider

and in the state of California at the time of the class to participate.

To find out more and pre-register: call 415-885-3693

or email us at cancersupportcenter@ucsf.edu

This program is brought to you by the Donna Smith Fund at UCSF Health,

Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center

MIND, BODY & SPIRIT

ONGOING

Are You Living with

Serious Illness?

Serious Illness Support Group

1st & 3rd Tuesdays | 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm

This group is for those with serious illness to meet and to connect with others.

Our goal is to provide a safe place for you to explore:

• To freely say out loud and share what you are experiencing, thinking and feeling

• To listen and learn from each other: what helps, what hurts and what heals?

• To express your concerns about the impact your illness has on others and yourself

• To talk about sharing information and having conversations with your loved ones

Sessions are open to people with serious illness. Meetings held virtually via Zoom.

Link sent upon registration. Registration closes the day before the group.

Facilitated by Lacy Fetting, LCSW | Redwing Keyssar, RN | Judy Long, Chaplain

Open to all (UCSF/non-UCSF community)

To Register please Click Here

For more information: Call 415-509-8645 or email Gayle Kojimoto

What Matters Most?

Advance Care Planning Workshop

Next Session

Wednesday

May 22nd | 1:00 - 3:00 pm

This is a free two-part workshop offered throughout the year in advance care planning for patients, staff, and caregivers that enable you to:

• Create a personalized plan to honor your wishes

• Have your questions answered

• Complete your new or revised Advance Directive for Healthcare and have it notarized for free (in-person workshops only)

Session 1:

Learn about the Advance Directive Form, what questions to ask yourself and your family, things to consider about your wishes, and how to complete the form.

Session 2: (In person)

Bring your completed form to the workshop, ask any additional questions you or your family may have, and have your form notarized on-site at no cost to you.

Please plan on attending both meetings. This workshop is for people with a cancer diagnosis (including Non-UCSF patients) and their loved ones.

Led by Redwing Keyssar, RN, Author & Poet

To Register, please Click Here

For more information: Call 415-509-8645 or email Gayle Kojimoto

Free Notary Service is available by appointment:

Please call: 415-885-3693 or email Patient & Family CSC

Loss, Losing, Loosening

Poetic Medicine Group

Tuesdays | 11:00 am

In these challenging times, it is important more than ever to express our feelings and connect to our own creativity and community. Join us in using poetry writing as self-care and to explore our feelings, fears, and hopes. This is an open group that will meet weekly. Come once, come every week; there is no commitment to join every week.

Each week we will:

Use poem-making to explore your grief, whether you are grieving the loss of a loved one or struggling due to this global pandemic
Find healing through listening to poems read out loud and exploring how it makes us feel
Create a supportive & caring community

You do not need to be a writer or poet to join.

All are welcome..(UCSF/Non-UCSF Community) Come when you can.

Led by Redwing Keyssar, RN, Author & Poet.

To Register, please Click Here

For more information: Call 415-509-8645 or email Gayle Kojimoto

*2nd Wednesdays | 12:00 - 1:00 pm

Note: New day and time of the month

*Next session: May 8th

Poetic Medicine for the "Wounded Healer"

Many of us, whether we identify as being in the “healing arts” or not, have wounds that we understand as the foundation of our own ability to heal and to have compassion for others. In these sessions we will open to whatever it is we consider our own “wounded places” and allow our poem-making to be part of our healing process.

The psychologist Carl Jung coined the concept of "The Wounded Healer." He took the insights of this Archetypal healing from Greek Mythology. Chiron, the wisest Centaur, was once inflicted with a severe physical wound. In his way to recovery, he found the goal of being a “Teacher of healing.” Many wise people have said, healing is not a process between the healer and the wounded. It’s a process of two equals. The teacher does heal the wounds, but the one who orchestrates it is the healer’s own experience of healing.

Redwing Keyssar, RN, Author & Poet, of the UCSF MERI CENTER for Education in Palliative Care will guide us in using poem-making to explore the concept of what it means to be a “wounded healer” and to find healing in our creative process together.

We will:

Use poem-making to explore ideas about health and healing
Create a supportive & caring community

“Everyone alive has suffered. It is the wisdom gained from our wounds and from our own experiences of suffering that makes us able to heal.”

~ Rachel Naomi Remen

“The wounds are the places where light enters.” ~Rumi

Led by Redwing Keyssar, RN, Author & Poet

Open to all (UCSF/non-UCSF community)

To Register, please Click Here (then select a date).

For more information: Call 415-509-8645 or email Gayle Kojimoto

Food for Thought: Poetry Café

Thursdays | 10:00 am

In these challenging times, it is more important than ever to express our feelings and connect to our own creativity and community. Join us in using poetry writing as self-care & to explore our feelings, fears & hopes.

We will:

Create a safe environment for each other-with a short-guided meditation and music
Listen to some poems read out loud and see how they make us feel
Use some specific words or “prompts” to encourage our own “poem-making”
Share our poetic explorations

Making poems can:

Surprise us
Allow expression of feelings in creative ways
Guide our own healing journey

“Poetry is simply speaking the truth.

Each of us has a truth as unique as our own fingerprints”

~Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen, from Intro to Poetic Medicine by John Fox

Open to all (UCSF and

Non-UCSF community)

To Register, please

Click Here

For more information:

Call 415-509-8645 or

email Gayle Kojimoto

Led by Redwing Keyssar, RN, Author & Poet

Learn More:

If you would like to receive our monthly newsletter or learn about upcoming events:

UCSF MERI Center mailing list. To see all our Eventbrite Offerings

Help keep the MERI Center workshops free by donating

WEEKLY OFFERINGS

Instructions:

Place the ingredients into a blender and process until smooth
Pour into 2 glasses and enjoy!

Notes:

Yields 2 servings. Photo and Recipe from Sharon Palmer, MSFS, RDN

The Plant-Powered Dietitian

Are you a UCSF cancer patient and have some nutrition concerns?

Note: One-on-one Nutrition Counseling is available with one of our four oncology dietitians at no cost to UCSF cancer patients. These appointments are available via zoom (video visit) or telephone, by scheduling through your oncologist office/team.

Jordan's Exercise of the Month

Exercise Counseling:

Are you a UCSF cancer patient looking to regain strength or range of motion? If so, you are eligible for a free one-on-one 60-minute exercise counseling video appointment. You will be able ask any specific questions you may have as it relates to exercising. If you have pain or discomfort limiting your participation in exercise, you should reach out to your doctor. They can refer you to physical therapy to manage your pain and help you get back to being physically active!

Please refer to your oncology department to make an appointment referral.

For more information, please call 415-502-5547

Wall Squat Exercise

This is a great exercise for strengthening your legs with no equipment! If you are preparing for ski season or want to have an easier time getting out of the chair or off the couch, this exercise will help with quadricep strength and posture with your squat. If you want to make it more ski specific, lower down slowly into the squat and hold the bottom position for a few seconds. If you want to pop out of your chair with gusto, try to get out of the bottom squat position quickly.

We will be doing this exercise with you this month in the Core and More Class!

Photo from HEP2G0.COM

Instructions:

1. Find an open wall space. Stand with your back against the wall, your feet hip-width apart, and your toes pointing slightly outward. Make sure your heels are about 12-18 inches away from the wall.

2. Begin the exercise by sliding your back down the wall, bending your knees, and lowering your body into a squat position. Your knees should be bent at a 90-degree angle, or as close to it as is comfortable. Ensure your back is firmly against the wall throughout the exercise.

3. Keep your chest up, shoulders back, and your core engaged. Your arms can hang by your sides, rest on your thighs, or be placed on your hips for balance.

4. Perform 6-10 repetitions, focusing on slow lowering down and coming out of the bottom position without arching your back. You can add holds in the bottom position as your strength improves.

5. To return to the starting position, push through your heels and straighten your legs, coming back to a standing position.

6. Repeat the exercise for 2-3 sets with a 30-60 second rest between each set.

Note: In the beginning, only go as low as comfortable for your knees and back. As it becomes easier, you can lower your body closer to a 90-degree angle.

Have fun, stay safe, and healthy!

-Jordan LaBrec, PT, DPT, MS, CSCS

Core and More Instructor

Did You Know...

Donations

Equipment/Supply Exchange Program + Resources

Striving to enrich the lives of those living with home intravenous nutrition and tube feeding through education, advocacy, and networking.

The Oley Foundation is here for you. Please note: As we work through this national crisis together, Oley staff and volunteers remain committed to handling donations and requests for supplies. You may experience a delay in response as we all try to navigate these changing times. As always, we are here to answer any questions.

Shipping Options

Below are links to recommend shipping organizations.

USPS Priority Flat Rate is the preferred shipping method (especially for heavy items like formula) because USPS Flat Rate does not charge for shipping based on weight - it's a fixed fee based on the size of the package.

Averitt Express or (800) 283-7488. Averitt operates at 143 locations and serves thousands of points throughout the Southern United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

UPS or (800) 742-5877
FedEx or (800) 463-3339

Make a Difference

or Receive Support

View our site

The Oley Foundation

Albany Medical Center, MC-28

99 Delaware Avenue

Delmar, NY 12054

518-262-5079

Community Programs, Events & Resources

American Cancer Society Road To Recovery Program

The program gives cancer patients free transportation for cancer-related medical appointments. Our trained volunteer drivers will pick you up, take you to your appointment, and drop you back at home when you’re finished, at no cost to you.

Lifesaving cancer care should not be prevented or delayed because of location or transportation. Connect with us to learn more about Road To Recovery availability in your area and other resources to help you on your cancer journey.

We are actively looking for volunteer drivers for those needing rides.

Thank you

Call the ACS at 800-227-2345 for more information.

For More Information

American Cancer Society Lodging Program is Back

Getting the best care sometimes means cancer patients must travel away from home. This can place an emotional and financial burden on patients and caregivers during an already challenging time. Extended Stay America, the leading mid-priced extended stay hotel brand in the U.S., has committed to making this difficult situation easier for cancer patients and their families. To reduce disparities in cancer outcomes and help patients affordably receive the treatment needed, Extended Stay America has renewed its partnership with the American Cancer Society to offer some reduced rate nights at over 760 Extended Stay America locations nationwide.

Patients who live more than 40 miles from the treatment location and have a demonstrated need for lodging assistance in order to receive cancer treatment will be eligible for the program.

You may call: 800-227-2345 or email SSBCREF@cancer.org

For More Information

More Resources to Explore:

ACS CARES™ (Community Access to Resources, Education, and Support)
Reach To Recovery (One-on-One Support)
Cancer Survivors Network (Support for patients, survivors, caregivers, families, and friends)
“TLC” Tender Loving Care (Discover essential products)

ACS Video Support

Caregiver Support Series

Caregivers are a crucial part of any cancer care team. The goal of this video series is to provide educational support to caregivers as they assist with the everyday needs of cancer patients and provide.

View Here

Serie de apoyo para cuidadores

Los cuidadores son una parte crucial de cualquier equipo de profesionales médicos contra el cáncer. Esta serie de videos tiene la intención de conformar un recurso educativo de apoyo para las personas encargadas del cuidado de una persona con cáncer en relación con sus necesidades cotidianas y ofrecer información sobre técnicas de cuidado para mejorar su calidad de vida.

Ver Aquí

Quit2Heal

Have cancer and want to quit smoking? Quitting smoking can help people with cancer. You may be eligible to join an American Cancer Society collaboration research trial and get exclusive access to a smartphone app with resources to help you quit – and get compensated while doing it. Your participation can not only benefit your health but will also help people in the future. If you have been diagnosed with cancer in the last 12 months and have smoked in the last 30 days, you may be eligible to participate. Today’s life-saving cancer care came from clinical trials like this one. You can be part of the future of cancer care.

Learn more at https://quit2heal.org

or Email: Quit2Heal@fredhutch.org

View Here

WHY RELAY

Relay for Life 2024

Throughout the year!

More than just a fundraising walk, the American Cancer Society Relay For Life brings together passionate supporters who embody the American Cancer Society vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. This volunteer-led experience unites communities to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost to cancer, and raise funds to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research, and patient support to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer.

Although each Relay For Life event embraces the uniqueness of the home community, every event does have the same four signature elements: a celebration of cancer survivors, a celebration of caregivers, a luminaria ceremony to honor and remember loved ones, and the opportunity to fight back against cancer.

Watch our Video

Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back

Throughout the year, find when your community

will support these efforts.

Use the link below to enter your county or zip:

JOIN A RELAY

BIG CLIMB SAN FRANCISCO

STEP UP TO TAKE CANCER DOWN

Saturday, May 4th

Join The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) in the fight to cure blood cancers by participating in Big Climb. Big Climb is more than a stair climb, it's an inspiring, fun & motivating experience. A community of survivors and fellow participants will get you pumped to conquer your climb in honor and support of our mission to find a cure.

You may register by:

…to help us reach our goal.

For more information: https://pages.lls.org/bigclimb/gba/bigclimbsf24

Or you may contact Erica Melgarejo:

415-625-1135 or erica.melgarejo@lls.org

Creating a Body Cancer Doesn’t Like

Wednesday, May 22nd | 4:00 PM PT

Dr. Alschuler and Karolyn Gazella, co-authors of “The Definitive Guide to Thriving After Cancer and The Definitive Guide to Cancer,” will introduce you to ways to reduce the risk of cancer and cancer recurrence by optimizing the health of 5 key pathways: immunity, inflammation, insulin regulation, detoxification, and hormonal balance.

Learn which lifestyle strategies can transform your body into one that cancer doesn’t like:

Diet

Mind/Body Practices

Physical Activity

Key Supplements

There will be a live Q&A at the end of the webinar.

Presenter:

Dr. Alschuler and Karolyn Gazella, co-authors

There will be a live Q&A at the end of the webinar.

Interested in the topic but can’t attend live? Register anyway, and we’ll send you the recording.

Anti-Inflammatory Diet and Chronic Illness:

What You Need to Know

Watch Our On-Demand Webinar

Curious about which foods are inflammatory, and how they might affect your health? Crystal Cascio, ACLP’s dietitian, will discuss specific foods that influence inflammation in the body and the role of inflammation in chronic illness. Research has found that inflammation can have impacts on overall health and disease risk, including cancer. By learning which foods are anti-inflammatory and which promote inflammation, you’ll be able to make changes in your diet that will lower your risk for chronic illness.

You will learn about:

Defining inflammation and its role in chronic disease
Foods that raise and lower inflammation
Herbs and spices that can decrease inflammation
Other lifestyle factors that can affect inflammation

Presenter:

Crystal Cascio, MS, RD, ACLP’s dietitian

Click Here

Reshaping the Possibilities:

Exploring Breast Reconstruction Options

and Aesthetic Flat Closure

Wednesday, May 15th | 5:00pm PST

Women undergoing mastectomies, whether for preventative reasons, or in response to a cancer diagnosis, have more options than ever today. There are a variety of ways to reconstruct, and ‘going flat’ is also an option. Join us to hear from experts as they discuss the popularity of aesthetic flat closure, advances in autologous reconstruction (from one’s own tissue), and the array of options for implant reconstruction. While not every choice is right for every woman, all women should educate themselves about their options and make informed decisions.

Event Presenters are:

Drs. Brian Buinewicz of Buinewicz Plastic Surgery

Joshua Levine of the Center for Breast Reconstruction

Harry Salinas of Miami Cancer Institute

For questions or more information, contact: Melissa Rosen

“Dear Cancer” Magazine Release Event

Saturday, June 1st | 12:00 – 8:00pm PT

(This is an in-person event)

This Magazine Release Events are completely free. It is open to the Adolescents and Young Adults - AYA Cancer Community (anyone/all cancer diagnosed between the ages of 15-39). Caregivers/friends/loved ones who are older than 39 are also welcome to attend. There are three workshops and time for you to hear from some of our authors, and spend time with others in the community.

Agenda for the Day:

12:00 - Check in, Snacks & Coffee

12:30 - Healing Through Writing Workshop

2:15 - Movement Workshop

*This workshop is sponsored by The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

3:30 - Mindful Mail Creative Art Workshop

*This workshop is sponsored by I’m Not Done Yet Foundation

3:30 - Fantasy Fish Clay Sculpting Workshop

*Texturize air-dry clay to make your very own sea creature. *All materials needed for the workshop are provided.

6:45 - Storytelling Soiree (food, drinks, author sharing, and mingling!)

Daytime workshops will be held at the Hoover Health Library on Stanford’s campus.

211 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA 94304

The Storytelling Soiree will be located at Mama Coco Cocina Mexicana.

1081 El Camino Real, Menlo Park, CA 94025

Balancing Work & Cancer Webinar:

Networking: Unlock New Opportunities

Wednesday, May 1st | 10:00am PT

Networking is one of the most important aspects of job search—and professional development—whether done in-person or virtually and from a distance. In this new session, learn tactics for developing and nurturing productive relationships that will benefit you now and in the future.

Julie Jansen, Speaker, Trainer and Author

UPCOMING

Balancing Work & Cancer Webinar:

Balancing Work & Nutrition

Wednesday, June 5th | 3:00pm PT

Maintaining a balanced diet while juggling work and cancer is key to maintaining energy levels, managing symptoms at work and feeling better overall. However, between treatment-related challenges (such as restricted diets, medication schedules, etc.) and workplace challenges (such as limited time, stress and unreliable storage options), doing so is often easier said than done. In this session we will explore the unique nutritional needs of working cancer survivors and practical solutions for healthy eating during the workday.

We’ll discuss:

How proper nutrition and eating habits can help you manage treatment side-effects on the job
Best practices for planning and preparing meals for your workdays
Tips for getting around obstacles to eating healthy at the office
And more!

14th Annual National Conference on Work & Cancer

Friday, June 21st

5:30am-5:45am PT | Attendee Login

5:45am PT | Program Begins

This free, daylong event brings together patients, survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, advocates, employers/HR, advocates and others touched by cancer to explore the complexities of balancing treatment and recovery with employment.

We know that not everyone has access to reliable technology in their home, which is why for this event we offered our Technology Assistance Program (TAP).This application-based program for cancer patients and survivors awards (1) laptop (such as a Chromebook or similar device) to a limited number of recipients. Although applications are now closed, if you'd like to learn more about the program and place yourself on a list for future opportunities please click here .

Topics are:

Working through treatment
Making disclosure decisions
Managing treatment side effects
Communicating effectively
and more!

Topics are still being added and are subject to change.

More Webinars & Events

See Here

Let's Talk About It: Breast Cancer

(What is Mindset and Does it Really Matter?)

Wednesday, May 15th

10:00 – 11:30am PT

Individuals with breast cancer can join Julie Larson, LCSW and peers via video or phone to talk about topics such as "What is Mindset and Does it Really Matter?".

Your mindset is the way you make sense of the world around you. This lens influences the way you think, the way you feel, and how you might behave in certain situations. Come join us on Wednesday, May 15th as we talk together about mindset myths that can get us into trouble and ways to cultivate a mindset to support your cancer survivorship in authentic ways. Let’s Talk About It!

Presenter:

Julie Larson, LCSW

Let's Talk About It: Black Women with Breast Cancer

(Societal pressures & stressors)

Thursday, May 23rd

4:30 – 5:30pm PT

If you're a Black woman who has completed active treatment and is in need of support during the survivorship stage, we'd like to invite you to join our 5-part support series. You'll be able to connect with other Black survivors who have been through similar experiences. The series will be facilitated by two Black women - Lisa P. Nelson, LMSW, OSW-C, an oncology social worker, and Megan-Claire Chase, a 7-year breast cancer survivor and SHARE's Breast Cancer Program Director.

This is a safe space that has been specially designed for Black women who are breast cancer survivors, to share their experiences and added stressors that often affect them. You don't want to miss this unique opportunity to connect with other survivors and learn from their journeys.

Presenters:

Lisa P. Nelson, LMSW, OSW-C

Megan-Claire Chase, ILC survivor & Breast Cancer Program Director

Let's Talk About It: Ovarian Cancer

(The Emotional Toll of Treatment Decision Making)

Wednesday, May 8th

10:00 – 11:30am PT

Individuals with ovarian cancer can join Julie Larson, LCSW and peers via video or phone to talk about topics such as "The Emotional Toll of Treatment Decision Making".

Making treatment decisions is stressful. The work of understanding complex medical information, crafting questions for your medical team, and trusting oneself is hard. Join us on Wednesday, May 8th as we break down this intense time in ways that might feel more manageable and help you regain a sense of calm as you work hard to care for yourself at each turn in the road. Let’s talk about it.

Presenter:

Julie Larson, LCSW

Part II - Body Grief: Losing parts of ourselves and our identity before, during, and after cancer treatment

Friday, May 24th

9:00 – 10:00am PT

When cancer is diagnosed, there is a common experience for people to feel under attack or betrayed by their own body. Some even experience distrust and dissociation with their body. The multitude of losses that come along with a cancer diagnosis are sometimes met with well-intended but insensitive feedback from those around you. Grieving for body parts that have been with you your entire life, that may even define parts of your identity, requires a vulnerable acknowledgement that cancer has taken something away. When someone has completed active treatment, a new version of grief may emerge regarding the changes in personality traits, roles, and identities.

Join us and our guest speaker, Kristy Case. She is a licensed clinical social worker and a certified oncology social worker with more than 15 years of experience in helping people and families dealing with cancer. In this session, we will learn about body grief and ways to cope with it. We will also explore methods to heal from this challenging experience.

The goals of this workshop are to provide you with:

Knowledge on how body grief may be present in your life
Adaptable emotional coping tools to face loss and change
Activities you may wish to incorporate as you grieve the loss of your body parts and identity

Presenter:

Kristy Case, LCSW and certified oncology social worker

UPCOMING

Focus on Race, Culture and Identity

Wednesday & Thursday | June 26th – 27th

5:00am PT – 1:00pm PT / 8:00am ET – 4:00pm ET

THIS IS A HYBRID EVENT (NY)

SAVE THE DATE

This year's Getting Our Fair Share will explore solutions to the challenges many women with cancer face because of biases around race, culture, language, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression. This is an interactive, action-oriented event. Come share your perspective and amplify your voice!

Reserve a seat or Receive a link to livestream

Location:

4 W 43rd Street

New York, NY 10036

Attentive Agenda is available – subject to change.

More about Programs & Specialized Support Groups

See Here

2024 HOPE WALK

Walk From Anywhere: SUN, MAY 12th thru SAT, MAY 18th

In-Person Walk: SAT, MAY 18th, Heather Farm Park, Walnut Creek

What about fundraising for Cancer Support Community?

You can help raised valuable funds for Cancer Support Community programs by registering for the walk and letting your family, friends, and colleagues know they can support your efforts by donating. Asking 10 people for $10 will raise $100 to support local cancer patients and their loved ones.

Download the flyer to share

How do I participate virtually?

Hope Walk Pet Grand Marshal

Your pet could be the star of the Hope Walk! Register your beloved furry friend ($10) and they will receive a Hope Walk pet bandana. The top fundraising pet will become the Hope Walk Grand Pet Marshal!

Fundraising Incentives

The prizes below are for funds raised by individual fundraisers (not team totals).

$100 - CSC car magnet

$500 - CSC baseball cap

$1000 - 12 oz. CSC wine tumblers - double set

$2000+ - one free ticket to the 2024 Gala in the Grove

Early Bird Check-in: Please note the different locations for each date.

Friday, May 10, 12 – 4 PM

Saturday, May 11, 11 AM – 3 PM

Tuesday, May 14, 3 – 6 PM

Click Here For Details

In-person Event Timeline

8:30 am - Check-in Begins & Community Fair Opens

8:30 am - 12:00 pm - Community Fair

10:00 am - Hope Walk kick-off!

12:00 pm - Event concludes

Registration:

There is a $35 registration fee for all walkers ages 10+.

Each registered walker will receive a Hope Walk event t-shirt!

Regi ster H ere

Please visit the calendar for more

events & programs

Our Calendar

Art Series:

Self-Forgiveness (Via Zoom)

Tuesdays, May 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th | 5:00pm - 6:30pm

When diagnosed with an illness, it can often be a catalyst for deeper inquiry. This series will help you explore the understanding of forgiveness as kindness to yourself, rather than an act of condoning other is harmful actions. We will deepen ideas of cultivating forgiveness through formal and informal meditation practices that you can incorporate into your daily routine. By cultivating forgiveness for others, and towards ourselves, we can begin to create more within ourselves for the things that bring us happiness and peace. No supplies necessary.

Led by: Lacey Morris, LMFT

For more information or to sign up, please contact:

Ámbar Sandoval, BACC Program Manager Ambar@bayareacancer.org

Breast and Ovarian Cancer

Post-Treatment Support Group (Via Zoom)

Saturday, May 11th & May 25th (2nd and 4th Saturdays) | 1:00 pm to 2:30pm

This is an ongoing support and education group for anyone who has completed treatment for breast or ovarian cancer and is now focusing on continued physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. At each group meeting, clients discuss issues, concerns, and emotions with peers

Facilitated by: Amy Armes, M.A., LMFT

For more information or to sign up please contact:

Ámbar Sandoval Ambar@bayareacancer.org or call our Helpline at 650-326-6686

Weekly Offerings

Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) with Breast Cancer Support Group (Via Zoom)

3rd Mondays | 5:30pm – 7:00pm

This group is for Black, Indigenous, and people of color who have also been diagnosed with any stage of breast cancer. In this group, individuals come together to offer support, resources, and encouragement while sharing experiences and building relationships.

Facilitated by: Dolores Moorehead, M.S., APCC

For more information or to sign up, please contact:

Ámbar Sandoval, BACC Program Manager Ambar@bayareacancer.org

Yoga for Healing and Recovery (Hybrid)

Mondays | 9:30 am – 11:00 am

In-person and via Zoom (This will be a drop-in class)

Location: BACC Office | 1511 S. Claremont Street | San Mateo, CA 94402

Join us, in person, for Light Athletic Stretch and Release (LASR) yoga using a mat or chair, blocks, and straps. This class is a moderate yoga flow for all levels.

Facilitated by Jido Lee Ferguson

For more information or to sign up please contact:

Ámbar Sandoval Ambar@bayareacancer.org or call our Helpline at 650-326-6686

PICKLES GROUP X LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY, YSC, NUEVA VIDA "HOW TO TALK TO KIDS ABOUT CANCER"

"CÓMO HABLAR CON LOS NIÑOS SOBRE UN DIAGNÓSTICO DE CÁNCER" [WEBINAR | TALLER EDUCATIVO]

el martes, 14 de mayo | Tuesday, May 14th

4:00 – 5:00 PM PT / 6:00 – 7:00 PM CT

Hablar con los niños sobre el diagnóstico de cáncer de su padre, madre o tutor puede ser difícil. Al mismo tiempo, las investigaciones muestran que las conversaciones abiertas y adecuadas para la edad con los hijos sobre la enfermedad de su padre o madre ayuda a disminuir su preocupación, estrés y ansiedad y promueve su bienestar socioemocional. Nuestra directora clínica, Kelsey Mora, LCPC, CCLS es experta en apoyar a las familias durante la enfermedad. Regístrese en este webinario para recibir una copia digital gratuita de nuestro kit de apoyo para familias de Pickles y aprenda cómo hablarles a los niños sobre el cáncer y escuche a un panel de padres y familias que pueden compartir su experiencia hablando con niños sobre la enfermedad. Este evento está organizado por Pickles Group, Nueva Vida, Young Survival Coalition y Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Lugar: Virtual (Zoom)

REGÍSTRESE AQUÍ

Did you know:

You can request a Family Cancer Support Kit

Request it Here

Community Supporting You

Support for Children & Teens

Who has a Parent with Cancer

Today our children and teens communicate differently.

Find what works best for your family.

Facebook | My Parent Has Cancer and It Really Sucks

First, know that there are an estimated 1 million other US teenagers with a parent who has cancer. Teens supporting teens can make a difference

American Cancer Society | “Helping Children When a Family Member Has Cancer”

Cancer Support Community | Talking to Kids & Teens

“Talking to Kids and Teens About Cancer”

“Worry about Family Children and Friends”

National Cancer Institute | “When Your Parent Has Cancer: A Guide for Teens”

MD Anderson Center | “When a parent has cancer: Helping teens and kids cope”

Camp Kesem | "Transformation Support of an Empowering Community"

We believe all children facing a parent's cancer deserve the chance to fully experience the joys of childhood and be their best selves.

I’m Still Okay!

What will happen if something happens to you?

I’m Still Okay is a free daily check-in service for seniors living alone, anywhere in the world. I’m Still Okay provides an option for you to stay in touch with loved ones and prepare for a possible mishap in a dignified and empowering way.

Even if you live alone, you can live your life with peace of mind,

knowing that your loved ones are notified if you ever need their help.

Click & Sign up here:

I'm Still Okay

Blood Cancer Information Specialists

Speak one-on-one with a blood cancer Information Specialist who can assist you through blood cancer treatment, and financial and social challenges, and give accurate up-to-date disease treatment and support information. Our Information Specialists are highly trained oncology social workers and nurses located in the United States.

Call: (800) 955-4572

Monday to Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT

Or leave a message 24/7 (anytime) and an Information Specialist will return your call as soon as possible.

You can also listen to recorded information about LLS and our programs.

If you need information about your Co-Pay Award or any other LLS Financial Assistance Program status, or help with the online portal,

please call (877) 557-2672, 5:30 am - 2:00 pm PT.

Chat with other patients and caregivers

in real time

Our live, weekly online chats provide a friendly and free forum each week for patients and caregivers to chat with others who are going through similar experiences.

We host 10 different chats, covering a variety of topics including living with blood cancer, caregiving, young adult survivorship, and more.

Chat Topics:

Acute leukemia
Caregivers
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)
Myeloma
Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN)
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)
Young adults

Each chat is moderated by an oncology social worker. The role of the moderator is to provide support and guide conversation, as needed, throughout the chats.

You may join the chats as often as you would like - there is no commitment.

We hope you will join us!

Check it Out Here

Local Financial Assistance for Napa County and

Bay Area Peninsula Residents

Those who qualify will receive $500 to cover the cost of non-medical expenses for the patient and caregiver including transportation, housing, utilities and more. Applicants must have a blood cancer diagnosis confirmed by a doctor.

For more information: Apply Here

LTo find out about additional resources

Call: 800-955-4572 or visit: LLS Support & Resources

All services are offered free of charge

Pink Ribbon Girls provide FREE direct services to women with

breast cancer and gynecological cancers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.

(Any stage, any age, no restrictions on income,

however some geographic restrictions may apply)

SERVICES

(Services are also available for men diagnosed with breast cancer)

Healthy Meals - Meals which target the nutrients a cancer patient needs, prepared by executive chefs and professionally delivered to your home
Housecleaning Kits - Provided with all-natural, plant- and mineral-based cleaning supplies along with a lightweight vacuum
Rides to Treatment - Provided by Uber Health
Peer Support - Offering you the support you need in the community you are in

OUR TWO PROGRAMS:

Simply Fight Program: For a diagnosis of Stage 1-3, the above services are offered for (2) Months.
No Age No Stage Program: For Stage 4 or Metastatic Cancer Patients and these services are provided for a longer period.

Geographical Limitations May Apply for All Services

We service the Bay area and within a 40-mile radius

For support for yourself or loved one, Click Here

If you would like to donate to this organization, Click Here

You may contact us directly at: 877-269-5367

Women’s Cancer Resource Center “WCRC” to provide direct services

to women with cancer, and to advocate for changes in the health care system.

Free Therapy Sessions with Women's Cancer Resource Center's

Licensed Therapists:

Cancer diagnosis and treatment can be challenging. While the journey can be a long road, we offer compassionate assistance along the way. We match eligible clients with one of our professionally licensed therapists for 12 sessions.

In response to public health and safety issues related to COVID-19, this program is being conducted via telehealth platform (video chat or phone). We understand that mental wellness is an important part of one's overall health. Brief term work can help clients prioritize personal goals, support emotional release of stress, and successfully identify techniques for coping and opportunities for emotional healing. Our Program is available for women and non-binary individuals, who make less than $30,000 per year and uninsured clients and couples.

To see if our Free Therapy Program is a proper fit for your counseling needs, or if you have general questions about the program, please call 510-809-0216 and leave a message.

WCRC Support Groups - See Website for Schedules

Latinas con cancer (En Espanol)
Holistic, Integrative and Alternative Medicine Support Group
Women with Metastatic Cancer (Daytime)
Women with Metastatic Cancer (Evening)
Adults with Blood-related Cancer and Their Friends, Families and Caregivers
Sister to Sister African American Women with Cancer (Berkeley)
Sister to Sister African American Women with Cancer (Richmond)
Women with Cancer
Bay Area Young Survivors

For more information or to register, please call Veronica 510-809-0209 or email veronica@wcrc.org

_____________________

WCRC also provides a range of services

to support women (and their families) throughout their cancer journey.

Website: www.wcrc.org or Email: wcrc@wcrc.org

Daily Weekday

Nature Meditations

An Online Practice Group, via Zoom

Mondays - Fridays | 7:30 - 8:15 am

Every weekday morning, mindfulness teachers/instructors will lead a nature-oriented, guided meditation session for anyone. Sessions include a short talk, followed by a 30-minute guided meditation.

Morning meditation can help one wake up and begin the day feeling more centered, focused, and uplifted, and the natural world can inspire our practice. Attendees are welcome to participate from any peaceful environment, ideally in nature or with a view of nature.

Instructors:

Mark Coleman, Rachelle Calvert, Diethild Simon, Nina Horne Odin Zackman

Love Recovery Meal 愛心康復餐

Nutritious diet supports cancer patients’ recovery

New Hope Chinese Cancer Care Foundation launches short-term meal service for cancer patients in need during treatment.

"Ask the Doctor" 問醫生

Free Doctor’s Consultation. Oncology specialist Dr. Dai Rongtao answers various questions about cancer treatment for cancer patients and their families.

As the situation with the pandemic improves, this event has returned to being conducted in-person at our Milpitas office.

Our Mission: 我們的任務：

To serve Chinese cancer patients and families through service, education, advocacy, and research.

New Hope Chinese Cancer Care Foundation serves patients regardless of religion, gender, age and region; and serves Chinese cancer patients and their families with the implementation of services and integrated use of resources.

透過服務、教育、宣傳和研究為華人癌症患者和家庭服務。

新希望中華癌症關懷基金會為病人服務，不分宗教、性別、年齡、地理；為華人癌症患者及其家屬提供服務實施和資源整合利用。

Visit our website 造訪我們的網站

For these services and more, please call the office for enquiries:

408-609-3338

如需這些服務及更多服務，請致電辦公室詢問：

408-609-3338

Bay Area Cancer Connections

Support Groups

Breast Cancer Support Group for BIPOC

3rd Mondays | 5:30 - 7:00pm

Facilitated by Dolores Moorehead, M.S., APCC

Please call our Helpline at 650-326-6686

__________________

Spanish Language Breast Cancer Support Group:

United Women

Grupo de apoyo de cáncer de mama en español:

Mujeres Unidas

3rd Thursdays | Tercer Jueves del mes | 6:30pm-7:30pm

(Space is limited) | (El espacio es limitado)

Facilitado por Tatiana Martinez, LMFT

To Register:

Please call our Helpline at | Para mas informacion, llame al 650-326-6686

Multiple Myeloma Support

for SF Bay Area

Multiple Myeloma Support Group

3rd Saturdays 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Virtual

We're here to help patients, their families, and loved ones. Multiple myeloma need not be seen as a death sentence, but rather a disease to be managed. Education and support are key. We have newly diagnosed patients as well as patients diagnosed more than 10 years ago. We share what we know about myeloma diagnosis, symptoms, markers, treatments, side-effects, clinical trials, quality of life, and many other topics of interest.

For more information email: Jack Aiello or Rob Salmon

Fertility

Health Benefits

Advocating for

Fertility Health Benefits

Fertility Within Reach is a national non-profit dedicated to helping individuals increase access to fertility treatment and preservation. Cost or access to fertility preservation should not be a barrier in someone’s ability to start a family when they choose.

Fertility Preservation (Adolescent Oncology)

Fertility preservation gives many families a chance to look forward, allowing them to imagine a future beyond cancer where they do not need to lose hope of having a biological child. Studies have shown that childhood cancer survivors express regret if their fertility is affected by prior therapy and they were not counseled at diagnosis and during their treatment. Fertility Within Reach aims to support youth and their families through this journey, expand the options for parenthood, and provide financial support for fertility preservation.

Fertility Preservation (Transgender)

Fertility preservation is a beacon of hope for many patients, allowing them to imagine a future where they do not need to give up the possibility of having a biological child. Studies have shown that most adults who chose gender-affirming treatment in adolescence were not counseled about preserving their fertility during treatment. Fertility Within Reach supports transgender youth and their families through this journey, broadens the options for parenthood, and provides financial support for fertility preservation.

Visit their website

Open to Options:

A service of the

Cancer Support Community

Have you recently been diagnosed with a new or recurrent cancer? Do you need to make decisions about treatment options? Do you have an appointment scheduled to meet with your doctor?

Cancer Support Community offers a question listing service to help you prepare for your upcoming oncology visit. This service is available at no cost to anyone diagnosed with a new or recurrent cancer who has to make decisions about treatment options. The goals of this program are to help you communicate clearly with your medical team, ask critical questions about your options, and help ensure that your treatment decisions fit your personal hopes and goals. To make an appointment, please call us at 925-933-0107 or 888-793-9355.

Learn more here

Motivate to Move & Heal

Since 1970, more than 15,000 published studies have proved exercise is medicine in cancer. Even in brain cancer. That’s important news for the more than 18 million individuals who have cancer worldwide. However, only 15-20 percent are told exercise can aid recovery and prevent cancer’s reoccurrence.

Filmed over two years and at major cancer centers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, California, Virginia and Denmark, MOVING THROUGH CANCER chronicles innovative programs that emphasize exercise throughout the cancer journey, with experts and patients providing first hand testimonies.

UCSF’s Dr. Susan Chang and her WOW – Workout for Wellness program are featured in the film as models for cancer centers worldwide. It’s only 17 minutes long, and you are welcome to post the link on social media or send it to friends. The book, MOVING THROUGH CANCER, is now available on Amazon.

Coming soon is a webpage on THEFUNDFOR SUSTAINABLETOMORROWS.ORG where you’ll be able to post comments and learn more about other leading programs. We hope this short video will motivate you or someone you know to continue to move through cancer.

To watch Moving Through Cancer

Click Here

MarinHealth:

Free Weekly Online QiGong for Cancer Survivors & Chronic Illness

Thursdays | 10:00 - 11:00 am

QiGong is a form of gentle, exacting movement and still meditation that uses the breath and mind to work with the body’s energy (or Qi). The intention is to help patients regain a deep sense of trust in their bodies and to encourage an open, relaxed, and calm mental state that more readily allows self-healing. This class is best suited to cancer patients and those with chronic illnesses. UCSF patients and caregivers are welcomed.

Visit our website

NCEFT Open House:

Mental Health & Resilience Program

Learn about the benefits of Equine Assisted Therapy. Join them for an informational hour. Meet the staff and their heard of horses, learn about what they do and stay up-to-date on upcoming programming.

NCEFT is a non-profit physical, occupational and mental health therapy facility in Woodside, CA. For over 50 years, NCEFT has tapped into the profound rehabilitative power of the human-horse relationship to facilitate healing to thousands of Bay Area children and adults (ages 2-85+) living with physical, cognitive, and neuromuscular disabilities, as well as mental health conditions/concerns.

Participants will learn tools to help cope with their diagnosis, and gain a positive sense of self through:

Mindfulness exercises with horses
Bonding and caring for horses
Group Discussion
Guided meditation
Participating in barn life
Journaling
Community building

For more information or to appllly for a program

Call: 650-851-2271 or see website

Visit our Website

Meditative Hiking

(In person)

Explore the outdoors and be present to the flow of conscious awareness in and around you. Meditative walks or 'mindfulness hikes' are a special opportunity for embodied walking, self-observation, mindful movement, reflection, lightheartedness, and building intra & interpersonal community.

This month's locations are coming soon:

Below are the usual locations, but may vary.

Please email the Facilitator or visit the website for details.

Mountain Lake to Baker Beach, round trip. Meet at the NE corner of the tennis courts, which are approximately 30 meters North of the intersection at Lake Street and 12th Avenue in San Francisco.

Park Presidio (round trip) meet in the parking lot at 300 Finley Road, San Francisco.

Glen Canyon Park to Cole Valley (one-way), meet at the corner of Elk and Chenery Streets in San Francisco. Public transportation is suggested for this hike. You can also utilize BART, MUNI, or Uber when arriving or when concluding our hike.

Cost: Donation based. A suggested donation of $10-20

Email to confirm dates and times: Email James Mitchell or text/call: 415-290-6718.

Visit our website

JAM4JOY Zumba Classes

Daily classes | See virtual and outdoor schedule below

JAM4JOY is a non-profit organization founded by Zumba instructors Judy Young and Angie Shin, who have been teaching together since 2015. JAM4JOY Zumba classes are offered for FREE or donations are gladly accepted. It is our mission to bring people together in community in a healthy way, to reduce isolation, and to educate about and support important causes impacting our community. Donations received for our classes, after expenses are sent to local organizations.

(Near various Holidays, dates may vary. Please email to confirm)

VIRTUAL CLASSES:

Mondays: 12:00 noon PT
Tuesdays: 5:30 pm PT
Wednesdays: 12:00 noon PT
Thursdays: 5:30 pm PT
Fridays: 12:00 noon PT
Saturdays: 9:00 am PT

IN-PERSON OUTDOOR CLASS:

Sundays: 10:00 am PT (Berkeley, CA)

Join JAM4JOY: Sign up now to get the weekly updates and zoom links

Contact for more information: jam4joy2020@gmail.com

Low Impact Virtual Exercise Classes

Tuesdays & Thursdays

12:00 - 12:30 pm PT

These 30 minute Low Impact Training Classes are free of charge for cancer survivors, thrivers, and caregivers.

Partnering with: Low Impact/Intensity Training (LIT)

What is Low Impact Training?

A combo of functional strength, stretching, balance, and low-intensity
Designed for those that want to improve their fitness level without feeling overwhelmed
Chair/wall useful for supported exercises
Alternative exercises offered for limitations/injuries
All exercises are low impact to reduce stress on body
Positive, encouraging atmosphere- you can do it!

Partnering with SweatCity Fitness

Campfires of Hope:

Stories of Cancer aims to empower the adult cancer community through storytelling and education.

The Campfires of Hope: Stories of Cancer podcast brings warmth, storytelling, and education to the cancer community. Campfire is a time for gathering together with family and friends, being in the present moment, and feeling love and connection as we share and receive knowledge from one another. During these campfire chats we discuss topics that empower those impacted by cancer, including mental health, living with stage 4 cancer, working with your medical team, personal wellness, fertility, and more.

Available where you listen to podcasts.

Join Our Podcast

JUST FOR FUN!

Last Month's Answers

Can You Find the 5 Differences?

There will be two new puzzles next month.

The answers will be revealed next month

Online Resources and Activities

COVID Information Resources

UCSF's FAQ: Coronavirus and Patients with Cancer
Coronavirus COVID-19 Links for the UCSF Cancer Community
Guide to Living with Worry and Anxiety Amidst Global Uncertainty
Coronavirus: What People with Cancer Should Know, by National Cancer Institute
Staying Well While Staying Home, for Cancer Patients, by CDC
What You Need to Know About Hand Washing, video tutorial by CDC
Coronavirus and Cancer Resources for Survivors, Nat'l Coalition for Cancer Survivorship
Cancer and COVID-19: What You Should Know about Increased Risk, Cleveland Clinic
Your Cancer Care during the Time of COVID, TIME article by UCSF's Dr. Laura Esserman

Well-Being Resources

12 Free Psychotherapy Sessions for low-income women with cancer from WCRC
COVID-19 and Cancer Patient Support Group by CancerCare
Healing Circles Global, with Commonweal
Resources for Coping with COVID-19, by Living Beyond Breast Cancer
The HeartMath Experience, to ease stress and increase your resilience
Managing Fear During Coronavirus, SurvivorNet video with UCSF's Dr. Dianne Shumay
Resources to Support Your Mental Health During Covid-19, from UCSF Psychiatry
How To Stay Resilient And Mentally Healthy During The Coronavirus Outbreak, NPR interview with UCSF's Dr. Elissa Epel
Healthy at Home: Tips for Wellness and Balance, by UCSF Campus Life Services
Coping with Quarantine, recording with Rick Hanson, PhD
B-Well Together: Wellbeing Breaks, by Salesforce
Guide to Well-Being During Coronavirus, by Greater Good Science Center
Six Daily Questions to Ask Yourself During Quarantine, by Greater Good Science Center
Mission Hospice and Homecare Events

Online Mindfulness / Meditation

Live:

Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD, founder of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, weekdays at 11:00
Ten Percent Happier, free live meditation sessions every weekday at noon PST

Recorded:

UCSF Osher Center Guided Meditations and Imagery
Mindfulness, Healing and Wisdom in a Time of COVID-19, with Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD
Pandemic Care Resources, meditations and talks by Tara Brach
Insight Timer, free meditation app for your smart phone

Online Movement Classes

Live:

Moving for Life, New York-based classes for cancer patients
Yoga on the Labyrinth, from Grace Cathedral

Recorded:

Massachusetts General Hospital's yoga video for cancer patients
Virtual Garden Yoga, recorded at the San Francisco Botanical Garden
UCSF Campus Life Services Workouts (especially yoga or low-impact exercises)

Online Education and Enrichment

Videos on Cancer

Movies and Talks

Kanopy (free with a library card)
TED Talks
Live Online Sundays in the Gardens Tours:
City Arts & Lectures events

Museum and Cultural Tours

12 Virtual Museum Tours, from Travel & Leisure
Virtual Tours of Museums, Zoos and Theme Parks, from Good Housekeeping
50 Ways to Experience Culture from Your Couch, from CNN

Concerts

Making Art

UCSF Maker's Lab's online classes. Note: non-UCSF patients must e-mail to register.
UCSF Art For Recovery, weekly Facebook group, e-mail Amy Van Cleve for details
Color our Collections, downloadable, printable coloring pages from the Smithsonian

Online Classes

Khan Academy
BerkeleyX, free online courses from UC Berkeley
HarvardX, free online courses from Harvard University

English

Español

中文

Cancer Center New Patient Guidebook

(Click preferred language or link above for all versions of the Guidebook)

For a printed copy, please call: 415-885-3693

For more support services click below

With Gratitude to the Donna Smith Fund

Our support groups are made possible in part by a generous donation from the Donna Smith Fund. Donna Smith was a woman of indomitable spirit, who met her cancer diagnosis with personal strength and dignity, with the support of her family and friends. Throughout her illness, Donna encountered many patients who did not have the same benefit of financial and family support systems; consequently, she found the physical and emotional suffering of her fellow patients intolerable. Despite her own deteriorating health, Donna and her family were moved by the plight of these patients, and they established the Donna Smith Fund to help them gain access to special resources and programs that might ease their burden.