CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS
Cancer Support Groups and Services in the Triangle
Navigating a cancer diagnosis and treatment does not have to be a solo experience. Whether you are recently diagnosed, are already on your recovery journey, or are a family member of someone diagnosed, there are several cancer support groups throughout central North Carolina. These support groups can help patients and their families by offering a safe place to share feelings and emotions as they navigate a cancer diagnosis and recovery.
To help you connect with other cancer patients and caregivers, Personalized Hematology-Oncology has compiled a list of local support groups in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham and the surrounding area.
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA
A national program available at local YMCA branches, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is open to adult cancer survivors. While not an official support group, LIVESTRONG can help cancer survivors build a supportive network through fitness and routine.
Offered at YMCAs in Raleigh, Durham, Sanford and Chapel Hill, LIVESTRONG helps participants build muscle, strength and endurance through exercise and nutrition. Taught by certified instructors trained in cancer care and featuring small group sizes, this program is a great way to connect with fellow cancer survivors.
LIVESTRONG classes are offered as a 12-week course consisting of two 75-minute sessions per week. Prior to starting the program, participants will need medical clearance from their doctor. Visit the YMCA’s website to learn more.
Triangle Bladder Cancer Support
Originally founded in 2010 as a result of the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network’s Regional Forum, this in-person support group is open to bladder cancer patients, caregivers, friends, family and others who are affected.
The group typically meets monthly in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. For more information, visit the support group’s Google site or contact (919) 493-0551.
The Helene Foundation
Completely volunteer-driven, the Helene Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing assistance to families with mothers actively undergoing cancer treatments in the Triangle.
To provide targeted and individualized care, families must be referred to the foundation by a healthcare worker, family member or friend. If a referral is accepted, a woman and her family are sponsored in the program for at least six months.
During this time period, families can receive help with meals, tutoring, childcare, yard maintenance, house cleaning, transportation, and various family expenses.
To be eligible for sponsorship with the Helene Foundation, women must:
- Be a North Carolina resident
- Have at least one child under the age of 18 living at home
- Be undergoing active cancer treatment at a cancer treatment facility in the Triangle
If you know someone who would be a good fit for the program or are interested in joining yourself, visit the foundation’s website to learn more.
Cleaning for a Reason
Because of expensive medical costs and time-consuming treatments, cleaning may be the last thing on someone’s mind when you or a family member receive a cancer diagnosis. To help alleviate this chore, Cleaning for a Reason provides free support for cancer patients through home cleaning services.
While Cleaning for a Reason is a national organization, local businesses throughout the Triangle have partnered with Cleaning for a Reason to provide cleaning services for women undergoing chemotherapy treatments.
To find a local cleaning service, search your zip code on the organization’s provider finder.
Holt Brothers Foundation
Founded by former North Carolina State University football players Torry and Terrence Holt, the Holt Brothers Foundation was created in honor of their mother Ojetta who died of lymphoma. Based on their experience, the Holt Brothers Foundation supports children who have a parent diagnosed with cancer.
Kids are supported through the foundation with higher education scholarships and through KidsCAN!, an emotional support program.
Visit the foundation’s website to learn more about its mission and upcoming fundraising events.
Triangle Area Multiple Myeloma Support Group
Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects bone marrow plasma cells. For those in the Triangle diagnosed with multiple myeloma, there is a support group available once a month.
Those who undergo cancer treatment or treatment for other illnesses may have compromised immune systems. For the safety of those in this cancer support group, meetings are currently virtual.
To find out more about joining the Triangle Area Multiple Myeloma Support Group, visit the support group’s website.
Tennis For Life
Tennis for Life is a support group aimed at helping women who are recovering from breast cancer treatment. In this group, breast cancer survivors can stay physically active, connect with others, and become involved with their community.
There are multiple events throughout the year, and Tennis for Life is open to tennis players of all skill levels. Tennis for Life is also a free cancer support group for breast cancer survivors.
If you are interested in joining Tennis for Life, fill out a registration form online.
Learn more about cancer support groups
To learn more about cancer community support or about our practice’s cancer treatment options and gene-targeting cancer therapy, contact us today.
