What are Cancer Support Groups?
Support groups offer a place to get information, share comfort and support and reduce anxiety. They are a place where you can speak freely with others who share your experiences, concerns and emotions.
Many support groups are available in the Philadelphia area including these:
American Cancer Society Programs
For more info about the programs listed, class locations and schedules, visit the National Cancer Information Center of the American Cancer Society website.
- Cancer Information and Referral – The American Cancer Society can help people affected by cancer understand and manage the impact of the illness throughout their experience by providing information about community resources, support groups, educational programs and help with other practical needs such as transportation.
- Match with a Mentor – A one on one buddy program where patients are matched with cancer survivors who’ve had a similar type of cancer or who’ve been through similar cancer treatments.
- Look Good…Feel Better – workshops for women where trained and licensed cosmetologists teach how to cope with changes in appearance, such as hair loss and skin care, due to cancer treatments.
- Virtual Prostate Support Group – A self-help community for men with prostate cancer and their partners. Meetings offer education and networking opportunities with others who have the same diagnosis.
- Reach to Recovery – A breast cancer support program providing relevant information, practical tips and support for women with breast cancer. Support is provided before, during and after cancer treatment, through visits and phone calls by trained ACA -American Cancer Society volunteers who are breast cancer survivors themselves.
- Road to Recovery – A cancer patient transportation program. Rides are provided by volunteer drivers, helping patients get to and from cancer-related treatments and doctor appointments.
- Survivorship Resources – Cancer Nation’s platform that offers valuable resources to survivors
- Young Survival Coalition – Young women facing breast cancer together. Resources are available on their website.
- Send a Meal – Send a meal to a loved one or someone in need. For those times in life when filling their table will warm their hearts.
Local Philadelphia Area Cancer Support Groups
When Kim was diagnosed with stage 4 serous carcinoma ovarian cancer on August 9, 2022, she was hospitalized at St. Mary’s—an overwhelming start to a life-changing journey. But from the very beginning, one constant stood out: her connection with Dr. Krista Isaac. “She’s been more than just my oncologist,” Kim said. “She’s been a constant source of comfort, someone who listens to my fears, answers every question, and truly looks out for me.”