A life-changing event, cancer and its treatments can so often challenge a patient’s sense of self, physical appearance and emotional well-being. Living Through Cancer addresses many of the psychosocial needs facing cancer patients and survivors. We know that a cancer diagnosis can result in marked psychological distress. And, studies show that as the number of people living at least five years after cancer diagnosis has increased, cancer patients still report experiencing unmet emotional, physical, and treatment-related needs.
Specifically, cancer patients often have to deal with severe side effects and psychological distress during cancer treatment, which have a substantial impact on their quality of life. We know that many research studies have examined the potential benefits of psychosocial interventions for cancer patients and found that support can improve survival and/or enhance quality of life for participants.
We have adapted various models to fit local needs by responding to requests from hospitals and cancer centers for Living Through Cancer to deliver specific programs that address the needs of specific patients at their locations. We have designed and delivered programs on managing the fear and anxiety of re-occurrence, applicable to patients who have completed treatment; similarly, we have created stress management programs which focus on proper breathing, relaxation, visualization or meditation, so as to serve patients who may be in pain and find it difficult to move their extremities.
Physicians and medical staff increasingly rely on The Living Through Cancer Foundation to deliver critically important support services directed solely to the well-being and recovery of cancer patients. Our foundation is providing these services free of charge. Since our inception, we have worked hand-in-hand with hospitals, cancer centers, and community organizations—those who remain closest to patients and often best understand their needs. Our foundation services are a critical link in a patient's continuum of care, where education, screening, treatment and support are readily available within their communities.
Although medical research has made great strides in cancer treatments, unfortunately the numbers of new diagnoses are on the rise and requests for our services continue to increase each year. We measure our success not only by the numbers of patients and survivors we reach, but more importantly, by the improved quality of life and renewed hope we bring to those who attend our workshops.
The fundamental philosophy of Living Through Cancer is to empower and support those who live with cancer. We are deeply committed to each person we meet in these workshops, the testimonials herein confirm the importance and value of our work.
