Cancer Support Groups and Classes
Support groups help you connect with other patients and families coping with cancer. There is no cost to take part.
Support groups
There is no cost to take part in a support group or writing group.
Men affected by prostate cancer can find counseling, emotional support, information and a chance to meet others. Participation is free, and people may join any time. Family members are welcome.
Groups begin with introductions and announcements. When speakers attend, they speak for about 45 minutes and then take questions. The last half-hour is saved for participant discussion.
When: 5 to 6:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month
Where: This group meets online. You may join by video conference or phone.
Contact: Cat Christ at 503-346-0548 or email christc@ohsu.edu
Facilitators:
- Peter Bennett, LCSW
- Rachel Slottke, clinical research project coordinator, prostate cancer research
- Justina Lynch, RN, nurse coordinator, prostate cancer clinic
This program connects prostate cancer patients and volunteers by telephone. Volunteers, who may have had similar experiences, listen and offer support. To be connected with a volunteer, call 503-494-6117.
When: 2 to 4 p.m. Fridays
Where: Classes meet online. Register to receive a link, meeting ID and meeting password.
Register: Registration is required. Email Ryan Voelker atvoelkerr@ohsu.edu .
Facilitator: Ryan Voelker
When: 10 a.m. to noon Tuesdays
Where: Classes meet online. Register to receive a link, meeting ID and meeting password.
Register: Registration is required. Email Dawn Thompson at dawnrenethompson@gmail.com or call at 503-568-6145.
Facilitator: Dawn Thompson
This group is for people ages 15 to 39. Workshops use the Amherst Writers & Artists method to create a safe, relaxed, confidential and uplifting environment to connect with yourself and others through the written word. This is not a workshop where you will learn to write, but you do not need writing experience to take part.
When: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays
Where: Classes meet online. Participants receive a link, meeting ID and meeting password.
Facilitator and contact: Dawn Thompson
Mindfulness and yoga classes
Adults healing from cancer, and their caregivers, are welcome to attend.
When: 10-11 a.m. every Thursday and Friday
Where: Online
Cost: Free
Facilitator and contact: Kimberly Carson, M.P.H., C-IAYT, at carsonk@ohsu.edu
This course is based on a national model and decades of research showing that mindfulness can help cancer patients reduce pain, fatigue and anxiety while improving sleep and quality of life. Classes include instruction, practice, group discussions and education. Participants receive a workbook and recordings for home practice. Adults healing from cancer, and their caregivers, are welcome.
When: Eight-week sessions begin in January, March and September.
Where: Online
Cost: $150 (reduced from $400 thanks to a donation)
Facilitator and contact: Kimberly Carson, M.P.H., C-IAYT, at carsonk@ohsu.edu
This class welcomes adults who are healing from cancer and who are at least six weeks post-surgery. You will find a supportive environment for gentle stretching, breathing exercises, strength building and deep relaxation with guided imagery.
When: 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. Thursdays
Where: Online
Cost: First year free; possible nominal fee after that.
Registration and release forms: These signed forms are required. Have them completed by your oncologist and sent to Kimberly Carson at carsonk@ohsu.edu
Facilitator and contact: Email Elaine Cohn at elaine@onewithwellness.org
Patient advocacy
Prostate Cancer Patient Advocacy Group: This group of patients works to increase research and awareness across Oregon through fundraising, and legislative and educational efforts. To get involved, call 503-494-6117.
Learn more
Call Andrea Lehman, who supervises our adult oncology social work team, at 503-418-9758.
Read about our cancer social work services.