Now more than ever, people affected by cancer need resources and support. For cancer patients, survivors and caregivers, the threat of COVID-19 may be a considerable source of stress. In addition to the concern for illness in those who are immunosuppressed, there are the heart wrenching effects of social isolation during a time when community and support is vital to healing and wellbeing.
Though much of the “Caring for the Whole Person” support normally available on our website cannot be provided in person at this time, there are still a lot of organizations that offer services online or by telephone. You can connect with peer mentors, receive professional counseling by phone or video chat, and join an online support community.
Several of our local support organizations are offering live yoga, specifically intended for those with a cancer diagnosis and their caregivers, via online platforms. It can be a stressful time for all involved and yoga is a great way to connect lovingly with one’s body and enhance a sense of peace and wellbeing.
Many are also affected by financial pressures so we have listed a couple of organizations that offer financial support. More are available on our website in the Resources section.
Also, the North of Boston Cancer Resource Speaker Series continues via Zoom this month. “Tools for Mindful Living in Challenging Times” with local mindfulness experts Lisa Dorval and Heidi Kelleher will be presented Thursday June 18 at 7 pm. Please join us!
For emotional support check into these fine organizations:
After Breast Cancer Diagnosis ABCD offers free one-on-one peer counseling over the phone for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis and their caregivers.. Mentor matches are personalized based on similar diagnoses, treatment plans, and life circumstances and values and are available at any time throughout the course of treatment and beyond.
Cancercare.org Professional oncology social workers provide free emotional and practical support for people with cancer, caregivers, loved ones and the bereaved.
CancerConnect.com An online platform to ask, share, learn and connect with other cancer patients. CancerConnect also offers health & wellness resources, videos and newsletter updates.
Cancer Support Community A wealth of resources and support for people living with cancer, including free counseling and support by phone and cancer-specific information.
Frankly Speaking About Cancer An internet radio show that invites medical experts, opinion leaders, authors, caregivers and survivors to share information and advice on how to live a better life with cancer.
Explore the options for live online Yoga classes specifically for people affected by cancer:
Some resources for financial assistance. For additional resources click here.
Joe Andruzzi Foundation The Joe Andruzzi Foundation is committed to providing help, hope, and a reason to smile, for New England cancer patients and their families by contributing financial support when it is needed most. Grants are offered for non-medical costs such as rent/mortgages, utilities and other household expenses. Applications are accepted from health care providers on behalf of those requesting support.
Miss Pink Miss Pink accepts requests for breast cancer patients currently undergoing treatment to help offset the daily stresses of life. Miss Pink offers emotional, physical and, when possible, financial support to help women being treated for breast cancer re-focus their time and attention on friends and families.
