Support groups
Experiencing emotional trials from the diagnosis of cancer is normal, but that doesn’t make it easy. Simmons Cancer Institute at SIU believes that support groups are an important part of cancer care.
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 is open to any cancer patient, spouse/partner, friend, or caregiver. 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 5:00 p.m. in room E118. Contact Tia Rapps, BSN, RN, CURN at 217-588-5392 or rapps.tia@mhsil.com
Breast Cancer Support Group 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 at 5:30 p.m. at Memorial Hospital in room E118. Contact Tia Rapps, BSN, RN, CURN at 217-588-5392 or rapps.tia@mhsil.com
Prostate Cancer Support Group is open to men, spouses/partners and family members. Group meeting the second Wednesday of each moth from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. at Memorial Hospital in room B149. 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 4th Friday of even months (February, April, June, August, October & December) from 1-2 p.m. To sign up for the virtual group, contact: Jenny Varga, 217.862.0415 or varga.jennifer@mhsil.com.