Cancer Support Services Program
The Cancer Care Center of Boston Medical Center (BMC) has developed a Cancer Support Services Program designed to focus on the needs of patients from the time of initial cancer diagnosis through treatment and beyond. The Program offers multiple ongoing and special services to meet the needs of our patients. These services are focused on patients’ overall physical and emotional wellness. The four major areas of services offered include: support groups, support activities, integrative medicine services, and special events/programs. The aim of the program is to continue to deliver “exceptional care without exception” during all stages of a cancer diagnosis, including recovery. Cancer Support GroupsAt the foundation of healing is the ability to cope with a cancer diagnosis. BMC offers support groups that meet regularly to help patients adapt to the changes that come with a cancer diagnosis. These groups are an opportunity to discuss, learn and share with others who have had similar experiences. These support groups offer the opportunity to give and receive support from fellow survivors. Many of the groups are cancer specific, language specific, and/or gender specific so every patient can find a place where they feel comfortable connecting with others and learning more. Support ActivitiesA cancer diagnosis and ensuing treatment may present multiple challenges to a patient and his/her family and may lead to increased stress and worry. We design programs to help ease the burdens of diagnosis and treatment while creating an environment that fosters connection with others with similar experiences. Our dedicated and experienced staff shares a deep understanding of the challenges of cancer survivorship and has developed activities geared towards sharing special interests and hobbies. Some examples of the regular meetings include yoga classes, zumba, a knitting club, and a men’s interest group. Integrative Medicine ServicesLife continues despite a diagnosis of cancer. BMC has established special integrative services designed to help patients learn techniques to regain control of their lives, decrease the stress and overwhelming feeling that treatment can cause and provide some much deserved relaxation and a sense of healing. Massage and acupuncture therapy, meditation, cooking demonstrations and various forms of exercise are some of the services available. Special Events and ProgramsBMC organizes special events every few months for our patients to participate in. The aims of these events are twofold: to help patients rejoin the community, and to bond with fellow survivors. Past events include lectures, retreats and organized trips to local sites. Finally BMC organizes an annual Survivors’ Celebration Luncheon that draws large crowds to celebrate the amazing lives of the patients of BMC’s Cancer Care Center. LinksSee our Cancer Support Services Newsletter and Calendar (PDF) for a complete listing of support groups, activities and events.
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