The Ruby Slipper Cancer Support Groupwill kick off regular meetingsMarch 16.
The Community Resource Centre (CRC) will host the support group every first and third Saturday of the month from 1 to 3 p.m.
This peer support group is for any Sunshine Coast resident who has experienced a cancer diagnosis. This is a drop-in group and no pre-registration is required.
The peer support group will grow and evolve as the community's needs do. Organizers plan to provide special sessions in the months ahead that are focused on areas of interest identified by members of the group. The group has already been meeting with representatives from the Canadian Cancer Society to be able to inform members of services they provide and to garner print materials.
Given the number of inquiries the CRC has received regarding this group, it is long overdue. The Ruby Slipper Fund board of directors looks forward to working with all involved to help meet the needs of Coasters who are experiencing cancer.
A second support group specifically for caregivers will beginMarch 25 and will be held weekly on Monday eveningsat 7 p.m. at the CRC (5520 Trail Ave.,Sechelt).
This group, made possible by the generous support of the Ruby Slipper Fund, will be led by Mary Pinniger and will consist of eight sessions. Participants who are living with a loved one or family member who has had a cancer diagnosis will experience a confidential and safe environment to share their feelings and experiences with other members who are in similar situations. Members often find that a bond is formed between them because they understand each other's struggles and victories. Topics will include: understanding boundaries, creating a self-care plan, the healing process, celebrating small victories, the effects of stress and trauma.
If you are interested in participating in this caregivers' support group, please register with either Pinnigerat 604-885-0834(mpinniger@telus.net) or Christabelle Kux-Kardos at604-885-4088 (admin@communityresourcecentre.info).
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