September 26, 2013

Support group cares for cancer caregivers

Physical fatigue, anxiety and emotional distress are just some of the symptoms that caregivers may experience while undertaking the hard work of helping a friend or loved one cope with cancer.

Physical fatigue, anxiety and emotional distress are just some of the symptoms that caregivers may experience while undertaking the hard work of helping a friend or loved one cope with cancer.

Now, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center (VICC) offers “Caring for the Caregiver,” a support group for those who are helping cancer patients.

The free, weekly support group provides an opportunity to meet other individuals who are facing the challenges of caring for someone with cancer. By talking with others who are going through the same experience, caregivers can learn healthy tips to help them cope with the extra responsibilities and worries that go along with helping a cancer patient.

The group is led by VICC social workers who are experienced at helping patients and families deal with the stresses of a cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The support group meets every Friday, 9-10 a.m., in The Vanderbilt Clinic Conference Room 2701, across the hall from the Stem Cell Transplant Clinic.

For more information, call Linda Hudson at 343-6546 or Kelly Owens 322-4887.