Support groups

Support groups provide those diagnosed with cancer a place to learn information about their cancer; a place to share feelings, experiences and concerns with others who have the same cancer diagnosis; and a place that gives emotional and spiritual nourishment. Support Groups connect people facing similar challenges.

Finding Hope Support Group (virtual option available) is open to any cancer patient, spouse/partner, friend, or caregiver, in person and virtually. The focus is to provide a safe place to address the emotional needs of cancer patients and their families, provide support and improve health and wellness. Group meets the third Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m. in the 2D Classroom at Memorial Learning Center 228 W. Miller St. For questions or virtual links, contact Tia Rapps, BSN, RN, CURN at 217-588-5392 or rapps.tia@mhsil.com

Breast Cancer Support Group (virtual option available) is for anyone who has faced breast cancer, as well as their spouses/partners, friends and family. Group meets the second Tuesday of each month in person and virtually at 5:30 p.m. in the 2D Classroom at Memorial Learning Center 228 W. Miller St. For questions or virtual links, contact Tia Rapps, BSN, RN, CURN at 217-588-5392 or rapps.tia@mhsil.com 

Breast Cancer Minority Support Group Finding Solace Together is a welcoming support group for individuals affected by breast cancer. Through education, mentorship, and emotional support, the group provides a safe space for healing, connection and shared experiences. The group honors the unique experiences of minority communities while welcoming individuals of all races, genders, and identities. The group meets once a month on Monday from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. at Simmons Cancer Institute in the Robbins-Woerner Conference Room  for more details about the group contact Dr. Erica Austin at 217-553-1815 or download the details here.

Prostate Cancer Support Group (virtual option available) is open to men, spouses/partners and family members. Group meeting the second Wednesday of each month in person and virtually from 5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. in the 2D Classroom at Memorial Learning Center 228 W. Miller St.  For questions or virtual links, contact Tia Rapps, BSN, RN, CURN at 217-588-5392 or rapps.tia@mhsil.com 

Virtual Head & Neck Cancer Support Group is a patient-directed, self-help organization that was founded in 1991 by an oral cancer survivor. It is a non-profit organization dedicated to meeting the emotional, physical and humanistic needs of oral and head and neck cancer patients and their caregivers. Join Simmons Cancer Institute on the first Friday of the months of March, June, September, and December from 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.  in the Side by Side Wellness room on the third floor of Simmons Cancer Institute. For questions, contact: Jenny Varga, 217-862-0415 or varga.jennifer@mhsil.com