Sarah Miretti Cassidy, Director of External Affairs, joined us virtually last week to give our members valuable information about the Cancer Hope Network. When a person gets the gut wrenching diagnosis of the C word, they are faced with unimaginable physical, metal and emotional challenges ahead. They and their family need resources to empower them to face these hurdles by connecting them to key resources that will benefit the patient and family. Because life doesn’t just stand still - they are there to offer encouragement from diagnosis, through treatment, and into survivorship.
Here is what you need to know:
- Cancer Hope Network provides free one-on-one emotional support to adult cancer patients and their loved ones. Each of CHN’s 400+ volunteers is at least one year post-treatment or successfully undergoing maintenance therapies. They have faced more than 80 cancer types and speak 15 languages. Volunteers offer support from diagnosis, through treatment and into recovery.
- Support Volunteers’ passion is to lend a listening ear and supportive presence for others on cancer’s journey. Their commitment is that no one face cancer alone. CHN provides support by training volunteers who faced similar experiences who are matched to those needing services. Through this process they strive to instill hope and make a positive difference in the lives of people touched by cancer.
- CHN is recognized as a support resource by National Cancer Institute, National Comprehensive Cancer Network, American Cancer Society of Clinical Oncology, American Cancer Society, CancerCare, Etc.
- Services are free and confidential and CHN is nonpartisan and nondenominational, non interventional.
- Your contribution creates hope. The service CHN Support Volunteers provide is free, but the training and support our survivor and caregiver volunteers receive isn’t. Your support makes it possible. Learn more about how you can help here https://www.cancerhopenetwork.org/how-to-help/donationoverview.html
- Patients and loved ones may contact Cancer Hope Network by calling 877-HOPENET (877.467.3638) or visiting cancerhopenetwork.org. They’ll work with a member of our Programs Team to connect with the Support Volunteer whose experience most closely mirrors their own.
- Sarah Miretti Cassidy, Director of External Affairs – 908.879.4039 ex 20 or scassidy@cancerhopenetwork.org.
While Sarah took questions from members, Bob Goehler shared that his family had a very positive experience with the Cancer Hope Network. Bob included some very helpful insight here in the Trumpet for our members. Thank you Bob!
“When our family was struggling with a family member’s cancer diagnosis, and reaching out to the Cancer Hope Network, they made us aware of the very robust Lehigh Valley Cancer Institute and the numerous free services they provide,https://www.lvhn.org/medical-services/cancer-counseling-services .
“When our family was struggling with a family member’s cancer diagnosis, and reaching out to the Cancer Hope Network, they made us aware of the very robust Lehigh Valley Cancer Institute and the numerous free services they provide,https://www.lvhn.org/medical-services/cancer-counseling-services .
We were advised that LVHN has very comprehensive resources to help an individual and their family to deal effectively with their cancer diagnosis, etc,
I have copied/pasted the following from these great local resources that may be of interest to any Rotarians, dealing with a cancer issue, as we weren't aware that such free services were available to Patients and their Families, right here!” (Click read more for that information!)
Bob G
FROM THEIR WEBSITE
At Lehigh Valley Cancer Institute, our whole-person approach includes the support you need throughout your cancer care journey. Cancer counseling services allow you to receive help from caring professionals who understand what you are going through.
Cancer counseling services at Lehigh Valley Cancer Institute
You receive services from experienced counselors who specialize in meeting the unique needs of people with cancer.
- Social workers get to know you as a person so they can provide the services that are right for you. One of our social workers speaks fluent Spanish.
- A psychiatrist (medical doctor) helps you manage severe symptoms such as sleeping problems that make it hard to go about your daily life.
Problems you can talk to us about include:
- Anxiety
- Challenges related to important care decisions
- Depression
- Difficulty coping with a cancer diagnosis and the changes it brings to your life
- Strained relationships with loved ones
Our nurse navigators are always looking out for you. If you might benefit from cancer counseling services, we can explain how these services can help you and coordinate your first appointment. Read more about our nurse navigators.
Cancer counseling options
Individual counseling
Speaking one-on-one with a counselor allows us to give you personalized recommendations. You can share any concerns you are having during individual counseling sessions.
Group counseling
Our counselors guide discussions in support groups where you interact with people who are experiencing some of the same things you are. We offer support groups for many topics, including women with breast cancer.
Family counseling
You and your loved ones work with a counselor to address challenges that are affecting your relationships. Our counselor helps each person feel heard and helps you work together toward a resolution.
Cancer counseling and psychiatric support
You may benefit from taking medications, which only a psychiatrist may prescribe. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as anxiety that keeps you up at night, we discuss how medications can help you feel better.
You’ll receive the option that’s best for your needs. Our years of experience help you get relief while avoiding side effects from medications, such as feeling dizzy or groggy.
Additional specialized support services
Grief support
Living with cancer can bring feelings of loss that may be difficult to manage. We help you and your loved ones find ways to work through these feelings and make life transitions more peaceful. Read more about our grief support services.
Lymphedema support group
Some cancer treatments cause a buildup of fluid called lymph (lymphedema). This condition causes discomfort and can change your appearance. Our certified lymphedema therapists help you get relief. You also have the opportunity to share information with fellow patients through our lymphedema support group.
Spiritual support
Our chaplains help you and your loved ones explore the many emotions you may be experiencing, including fear and hopelessness. We deliver compassionate services that help people of all faiths gain peace of mind.
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