Support groups provide patients, families, and friends an opportunity to express and share their concerns, fears, and hopes with those who are experiencing similar life challenges. Support groups are led by oncology social workers and oncology nurses, who are specialists in providing reliable information in an atmosphere of encouragement.
Support Groups Offered through Taussig Cancer Institute Include:
Bone Marrow Transplant Groups and Post-Transplant Preparation Group
The post-transplant preparation group is an educational group to help current inpatients and their caregivers prepare for care and treatment after a bone marrow transplant. This group meets monthly in the G110 lounge.
Contact: Jane Dabney, LISW-S, OSW-C, 216.445.2483
Brain Tumor Family Support Group
For patients, families and friends to share resources on coping with brain tumors. Meets the fourth Wednesday of each month from 5-7 PM in R3-027.
Contact: Kathy Lupica, RN, MSN, CNP, 216.445.6910
Breast Cancer Support Group
For patients at any stage of breast cancer. The group meets the third Monday of each month from 10-11:30 AM in R3-002.
Contact: Rene Barrat-Gordon, LISW-S, 216.444.2260
Caregiver Support Group
"Circle of Friends" is a support group offering a series of educational and supportive sessions for adults caring for loved ones with cancer. Each meeting offers information to help Caregivers in adapting to their roles.
Contact: Christa Poole, LISW-S, OSW-C, 216.445.4557
Kidney Cancer Support Group
For patients, families, and friends to share their experiences in coping with kidney cancer.
Contact: Karen Fireman, LISW-S, OSW-C, 216.444.0945
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Monthly Support Group
For adult patients with leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, or Hodgkin’s disease and their family and friends.
Contact: Debbie Kendig, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Patient Aid Coordinator, 216.910.1234 or 800.589.5721
Living with Bone Marrow Transplant
For adult patients or family members who have been through or are anticipating having a bone marrow or stem cell transplant. Meets quarterly at the Gathering Place East: 23300 Commerce Park Drive, Beachwood, OH 44122. This support group is sponsored jointly with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Contact: Linda McLellan, LISW-S, 216.444.5079
Look Good, Feel Better
This program is designed for those with cancer who are undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy treatments. This group focuses on the use of skin care and makeup products before, during, and after cancer treatment. This program is sponsored by The American Cancer Society and Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute. All participating clients will receive a complimentary gift bag of skin care and cosmetic products. The group meets every month, and registration is required.
To register: please contact American Cancer Society at 888.227.6446
Lymphoma Patient Education Group
For patients, families, and friends affected by lymphoma.
Contact: Christa Poole, LISW-S, OSW-C, 216.445.2148
Multiple Myeloma Support and Education Group
For patients, families, and friends affected by multiple myeloma. Meets quarterly.
Contact: Barb Savage, LISW-S, CASWCM, 216.444.6465
Prostate Cancer Support Group
A group offering information and support for men facing prostate cancer. Family members are welcome to all meetings which are held at The Gathering Place East (23300 Commerce Park Drive, Beachwood, OH 44122).
Contact: Ellen Heyman, RN, MSN, CS, 216.595.9546