Support Groups Key to Living Beyond Cancer

Breast Cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, and is also one of the most curable types of cancer – especially if detected early. Aside from the physical elements associated with breast cancer, this type of cancer can also cause significant depression and stress.

A 2010 study in the Journal of North American Association of Christians in Social Work found that groups meeting at least once a month were able to work through various emotional elements of breast cancer treatment and survival by discussing stressors and coping strategies. Studies of breast cancer over the past two decades have shown the importance of support for surviving the process from diagnosis to treatment to remission.

According to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, social support can significantly improve the quality of life for people going through cancer as well as those surrounding the cancer victim. Research found that social support groups reduce anxiety and stress, lower the risk of emotional distress and depression, and decrease feelings of fatigue and pain. In addition, social support groups can improve mood, self-image, and ability to cope with stress. Furthermore, the group’s benefits go beyond the diagnosis and treatment phase by helping breast cancer survivors adjust during the remission phase of cancer.

On the local level, there are several breast cancer support groups that exist throughout Crawford County. Once such group, however, has been in existence for more than 20 years and has helped more than 200 women through breast cancer. The “Looking Ahead Breast Cancer Support Group” is a strong support network of women in the area who help each other through the stresses of breast cancer. One of the key leaders, Terry Hood, remarked that the group has a strong core membership of about 20 women, but so many more have been part of the group over the past two decades.

A key element that makes “Looking Ahead” such a strong support for women is that are no judgments made about any woman or her experiences. Each woman is encouraged to speak freely about her feelings and receives a plethora of support from all in the room. “There is no right or wrong way to feel,” Ms. Hood remarked. “We are there to help anyone with their questions, thoughts, fears, and anything else that is on their mind.”

“Looking Ahead” meets on the second Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. on the second floor of St. Brigid’s Church, 967 Chancery Lane in Meadville. It is important to note that the group is not associated with this church or any other religious denomination. It is also not affiliated with any of the cancer treatment centers or healthcare facilities in the area. It is a separate entity operating solely for the purpose of supporting those with breast cancer – men and women alike.

For more information on the support group, contact 814-382-8904. There are several cancer support groups operating in the area and can be found by connecting with the Yolanda G. Barco Oncology Institute in Meadville at 814-373-2335.

References

Collins, W. L., & Antle, B. (2010). African American women living beyond breast cancer in a Kentucky support group. Journal of the North American Association of Christians in Social Work, 37(1), 65-77.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure. (2011). Benefits of social support. Retrieved August 31, 2011 from http://ww5.komen.org/Content.aspx?id=5904.