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Greetings UCSF,

The Patient and Family Cancer Support Center

We want you to know that we are still here for you!

Walk-In Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

(However, stop by anytime the doors are open)

Come see the many resources and support services available to you and your family members.
Come and visit a comfortable resting area.
Come check your MyChart or emails.
Or stop by just to say Hi.

If you happen to miss us, we may be reached by e-mail at CancerSupportCenter@ucsf.edu or by phone at 415-885-3693. Our Social Workers are available to help you navigate the challenges you may be facing, we have a wonderful Peer Support Program, and our Psycho-Oncologists are conducting therapy sessions online, via Zoom.

Happy Spring

From Winter's end, Spring will share - new beginnings!

The Patient and Family Cancer Support Center Team

are here for you!

Please Stop By

NEW PFCSC SERVICE:

Notary Services at the

Patient and Family Cancer Support Center (PFCSC)

PFCSC Notary is able to provide acknowledgment for patients who have completed Advance Health Care Directives (AHCD) at no cost.

The Notary's duty is to screen those signing documents for their true identity, their willingness to sign without duress or intimidation, and their awareness of the contents of the document or transaction (needed identification is listed below).

What are the requirements to get Notary Services at the PFCSC?

Patient must be a UCSF Cancer Center patient.
Patient must come to the PFCSC suite at UCSF Mission Bay (exceptions)
Patient must have a scheduled appointment with PFCSC Notary prior arriving to the PFCSC.

How do I schedule an appointment?

Clinic/Admin Staff or Social Worker will email Bernardo Diaz or the Patient & Family CSC

or call 415-885-3785 to get an appointment scheduled. You may also call or email.

Moment of Pawse: Meet Indy & friends!

2nd Mondays of the month

10:00am – 11:00am

(Days and times may vary depending on availability)

Are you feeling a little overwhelmed

and need a break?

What about taking a “Moment of Pawse”

to become pals with our volunteer pups. We have Indy, Lia, Jaycee, and a few others that would love to share a moment with you.

They would love to meet you onsite from

10:00 – 11:00am. (Sometimes longer)

They will be hanging around our PFCSC Lounge then make thier way to the floors, in the waiting areas and the infusion centers, greeting patients and staff.

The next face they want to see is yours!

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE:

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

Take a Peek

UCSF Offerings

UCSF PFCSC Offerings

- Mar 9th: 4th Annual Patient Conference on Prostate Cancer | UCSF & CPCC

- Mar 12th – Superfoods! | UCSF Cancer Center Dietitians

- Mar 12th: Integrative Approaches to Living Well with a Brain Tumor | Sheri Sobrato Brain Cancer Prog.

- Mar 26th – APR 15th: MBCR Winter 2024 Session | UCSF PFCSC

Osher Center for Integrative Health

- Nature Medicine thru Virtual Forest Therapy Walk | Individual Sessions

- Mar 7th-28th: Group visits: Integrative Approached to Common Cancer-Related Symptoms

- Mar 19th, Apr 2nd, Apr 16th: Integrative Cancer Care Group Visits with Dr. Donald Abrams

UCSF MERI Center

- Mar 13th - May 1st: Sustainable Caregiving for Care Partners of People with Cancer

- Mar 26th: What Matters Most? Advance Care Planning Workshop

- 1st & 3rd Tuesdays: Serious Illness Support Group

- Tuesdays: Loss, Losing & Loosening Poetic Medicine Group

COMMUNITY Offerings

- Mar 19th: Boosting Your Immune System Through Movement | Anticancer

- Mar 20th: Starting and Sustaining Anticancer Living | Anticancer

- Mar 10th: Music & Movement Therapy | Sharsheret

- Mar 6th: Career Shifting: Tips, Tools & Techniques | Cancer + Careers

- Mar 22nd: 11th Annual Midwest Conference on Work & Cancer | Cancer + Careers

- Mar 7th: Chemo-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy | SHARE CS

- Mar 13th: Uterine - Surveillance Strategies, Testing, & Watching for Recurrence | SHARE

- Mar 27th: Tips for Managing Chemobrain | SHARE CS

- Mar 5th: Ayurvedic Body Clock | Cancer Support Community

- Mar 12th: Hypnosis for Pain Relief & Healing| Cancer Support Community

- Mar 19th: Healing Imagery | Cancer Support Community

- Mar 27th: Healthy Detoxing | Cancer Support Community

- Mar 19th: Metastatic Breast Cancer (Hybrid Offering) | BACC

- Mar Mondays: Yoga for Healing and Recovery (Hybrid) | BACC

- Mar Fridays: Mindfulness & Gratitude Experiential Group (In Cantonese) | Family Caregiver Alliance

________________________________________________________________

SAVE THE DATE

UCSF

- APR 3rd: National Webinar: How to Talk to Kids About a Cancer | PICKLES

- APR 3rd-MAY 1st: Optimizing Nutrition and Weight in Cancer Care | UCSF Osher

- APR 30th: Beauty & Wellness virtual session | Lipstick Angels & UCSF PFCSC

- MAY 4th: BIG CLIMB San Francisco | LLS

PLEASE NOTE:

SUPPORT GROUP CHANGES & NEW ADDITIONS:

See Section - SUPPORTING YOU WITH OTHERS

To register for these Programs & Events, please refer to that organization

below in the body of the newsletter under their names

UCSF or Community Programs, Events & Resources

COME AND VISIT US

Friend to Friend Specialty Shops

Come See Our New Things for this Winter!

Friend to Friend @UCSF Mission Bay is a cozy little oasis specializing in cancer products such as wigs, mastectomy bras, camisoles, breast prostheses, and headwear.

Come be pampered by our nurturing staff, many of them cancer survivors themselves. They’re here to listen, answer questions and assist you in selecting a beautiful wig or a naturally shaped prosthesis in a warm and welcoming environment respectful of your dignity and privacy.

We also have a unique selection of comfortable clothes, books, journals, greeting cards and gifts for all ages. Please consider dropping by to meet us, see what we have to offer, and discuss how we can help you on your cancer journey.

Located in the lobby of the

UCSF Precision Cancer Medical Building

Mission Bay

1825 4th Street, M1220, San Francisco

(Left of the information desk).

Open Monday - Friday, 9:00 am – 4:30 pm

Stop by either shop, we can help you make the right selection!

Friend to Friend @UCSF Mount Zion

UCSF Mount Zion is our 2nd location. It is filled with gifts, personal accessories, sundries and snacks to make your cancer journey or workday a little easier.

Additionally, we have an excellent selection of UCSF logo wear jackets, vests, hoodies, and

t-shirts available for purchase by staff, patients, and the public.

Located in the lobby of the hospital

UCSF Mount Zion Campus

1600 Divisadero Street, San Francisco

Open Monday - Friday, 9:30 am – 4:00 pm

Michael Alperstein is the author of the

"Joyful Heart Gratitude Journal."

This is a 60-day challenge to relinquish negativity and increase joy. Check it out and purchase your copy for just $13.00 at the Friend to Friend Specialty Shops in the hospital lobbies at Mount Zion and Mission Bay.

Starting the new year is a good way to slow things down

and focus on your inner self.

A Gratitude Journal is a great gift for yourself or for someone seeking to find moments of overflowing joy.

Please stop by either campus – We hope to see you soon!

And don't forget to visit our website at www.friend2friend.org!

Art for Recovery Offerings:

Due to popular patient demand, many of the Art for Recovery Program workshops have currently reached maximum capacity. Those requesting to enroll in a workshop that has reached maximum capacity, will be placed on a waitlist.

(These Online Zoom Sessions are for Patients)

Expressive Healing: An Online Music & Creativity Workshop

6 -Week Workshop | Online via Zoom

Wednesdays | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm

Facilitated by Ned Buskirk, Writer, AFR, and Patrice Haan, Harper

HeART and Music

Thursdays | 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Facilitated by Patrice Haan, AFR Harpist & Amy Van Cleve, Program Manager

Musical Oasis: Healing Music

Tuesdays | 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

Facilitated by Patrice Haan, AFR Harpist

Writing with Music Workshop for Men:

Creative Community Connection & Support

Tuesdays | 12:00 – 1:30 pm

Facilitated by Ned Buskirk, MA, Creative Writer & Jim Murdoch, Musician / AFR

Open Art Studio!!!7

Open Art Studio (NOW in Person)

Limited space. To reserve your spot, please email Amy Van Cleve

Wednesdays | 1:00 – 4:00 pm (Mount Zion Campus)

Facilitated by Amy Van Cleve, Director and Elias Medici, Administrative Assistant

Young Adults Arts Group

Online Workshop

Reserved for Ages 18-25

Tuesdays| 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Our Young Adult Arts Group is for patients ages 18-25 to build community through expressive arts. This group connects online and gathers in a safe space to share updates, projects and alleviate isolation. No skill or experience is required.

To register, please email ArtforRecovery@ucsf.edu

What's New?!?

Join Our Weekly In-Person or Online

Expressive Art Group!

Open Art Studio NOW OPEN at UCSF Berkeley Out Patient Center

Thursdays | 1:00 – 3:30 pm

Open Art Studio is a safe space for people dealing with cancer to connect creatively in person or online. No skill is required to participate. The art studio is stocked with a variety of free materials for creative expression. Each week our team will guide participants through art projects, poetry and live music to inspire and support. We invite any living with cancer at any stage to join us in the healing process of art making in community.

Let's make art and memories together!

Facilitated by:

Amy Van Cleve, Director of Art for Recovery

Patrice Haan, Healing Harpist

call 415-885-7225

Art for Recovery New Art Installation

UCSF Women's Health Center

Art Reveal & Reception

SERENITY: Art for Recovery

Friday, March 22nd | 5:30 - 7:30 PM

Art for Recovery is proud to announce our collaboration with the UCSF National Center of Excellence in Women's Health at Mount Zion for a two month, five floor art exhibition.

The Women's Health Center hosts three different exhibits a year featuring Bay Area artists. These art installations include a large opening and the opportunity to engage and uplift patients, practitioners and staff. Art for Recovery will be on display with a large body of our community's work related to the exhibition themes on their respective floors.

See the individual artist's names and the floors where their art will be displayed.

Come and meet the artists!

The gallery will be displayed on five floors of the

UCSF Women's Health Center

2356 Sutter Street

Near the Mount Zion Campus

(Cross Street is Divisadero)

Stories of Art for Recovery:

A YouTube Series

Featuring Marla

Marla Pedersen | Cancer as a Revelation

Stories of Art for Recovery

Marla Pedersen was just 40 years old when she was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer. A longtime artist and teacher, she shares the revealing nature of a life-threatening diagnoses.

Marla channels her art to connect with a community for support that she never knew she needed.

To watch Marla's Story

Click Here

To support more videos like this, visit:

AFR Video Projects

Visit our AFR website

(Registration is Required for all AFR Offerings)

Please Pre-register by emailing Art for Recovery or call 415-885-7225.

All sessions are free of charge

We thank you for your continued support.

PROGRAMS & SEMINARS

THE 4th ANNUAL

PATIENT CONFERENCE ON PROSTATE CANCER

PRESENTED BY CPCC AND UCSF

The California Prostate Cancer Coalition (CPCC) and

the Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center of UCSF proudly present

“The 4th Annual Patient Conference on Prostate Cancer”

(This is a hybrid event / In-person and virtually)

Saturday, March 9th | 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (PT)

An exceptional conference for patients, families, caregivers,

health professionals, and advocates from across the country

Our Stellar Faculty Presenters are:

Eric Small, MD; Peter Carroll, MD, MPH; Matt Cooperberg, MD, MPH; June Chan, ScD; Mack Roach III, MD; Rahul Aggarwal, MD; and Thomas Hope, MD

Our Overview Topics will include:

Genetics and Genomics; ADT; Localized, Recurrent, and Advanced Prostate Cancer; Active Surveillance; AR Targeted Treatment; Chemotherapy and Radioligand Therapy for Metastatic CRPC; Immunotherapy; Bone Health; Surgery; Radiation; Focal Therapy; Imaging; Diet and Exercise; Symptom Management; and New Treatments on the Horizon.

This Conference will help patients become better informed about their care and learn how to engage in effective, shared decision-making. This is an outstanding opportunity to hear from leading experts in prostate cancer.

The cost for attending the conference:

In-Person is $50 including light breakfast and lunch

Virtual Participation is $25

These amounts and your donations help us defray some of the costs of holding this exceptional conference. If the amount presents a hardship, an adjustment can be requested. For additional information, please contact mgrey@ucsd.edu.

Cancer Center Nutrition Presents:

Superfoods!

Tuesday, March 12th | 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

In-person Seminar (Space is Limited)

Superfoods are those whole foods that are superior sources of

phytonutrients and essential nutrients that we need in order to thrive.

Due to the significant interest in our previous

'Super Foods' seminar back in June, we are thrilled to announce a special repeat session this March.

This will provide another opportunity for those who missed the first one to join us. You will learn our top choices for foods that may be protective against cancer and promote overall wellness.

You’ll leave with practical tips and great tasting recipes that incorporate many of these superfoods so that you can get started right away.

Facilitated by:

Claire Mogelvang, RD

Greta Macaire, MA, RD, CSO

Please note:

Masking and social distancing are recommended for this in-person event.

(Tasting samples will be available, however you are welcome to bring your lunch).

This offering is available for UCSF patients

Space is limited – Register Today!

See Mission Bay Location on Registration

2 hr validated parking available for that day

Integrative Approaches to Living Well with a Brain Tumor:

3-Part Series

Please plan to attend all three sessions.

Tuesday, March 12th,19th & March 26th

10:00am – 11:30am (Virtual Series)

This three-part course will provide evidence-based integrative approaches tailored to people with primary brain tumors. Each session will include time for questions and end with a goal-setting session. This program is open to UCSF brain tumor patients and their caregivers. Please plan to attend all three sessions.

Introduction to Integrative Oncology Practices

With Shannon Fogh, MD, MA

What is Integrative oncology and how can it help people with brain cancer
The magic of movement (exercise, yoga, qi gong, etc)
Cannabis for symptom management

Nutrition for People with Brain Tumors

With Greta Macaire, MA, RD, CSO

The Anti-Cancer Diet
The keto diet explained
Supplements for memory and cognition and fatigue management

Stress Management and Mindfulness for People with Brain Tumors

Melissa Brie, PsyD and Alex Keller, PsyD

Stress management (coping with anxiety/scanxiety)
Emotional well-being
Living mindfully
Managing sleep and coping with fatigue

This program is open to UCSF brain tumor patients and their caregivers and is sponsored by our Sheri Sobrato Brain Cancer Survivorship Program

UPCOMING

Lipstick Angels are offering their

Beauty & Wellness 101 classes with UCSF

Virtual setting via ZOOM Offered Quarterly

Our Next Beauty & Wellness Session

will be in Spring

Tuesday, April 30th

10:00am - 12:00pm

Theme: "Spring Glow"

Come enhance and restore healthy skin and beauty

with Lipstick Angels & UCSF

Each participant will receive a “complimentary, personalized, specially curated bag” of non-toxic makeup and skincare supplies to use during the class for the fully interactive experience.

The course includes:

• Aromatherapy & guided breathing

• Skincare basics

• Self-care tips

• Makeup tutorials (including eyebrow shaping)

*Required to participate: See below

“Come and enjoy this awesome experience and give yourself the pampering you deserve!”

Take a peek at what you may experience:

Class Video

*Patients must be under the care of a UCSF Cancer Center provider

and in the state of California at the time of the class to participate.

To find out more and pre-register: call 415-885-3693

or email us at cancersupportcenter@ucsf.edu

This program is brought to you by the Donna Smith Fund at UCSF Health,

Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center

MIND, BODY & SPIRIT

Directions:

1. To cook squash: Put squash chunks and 2 to 3 cups water into a large soup pan with a lid. Cover and cook until tender, about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the squash variety. Remove the squash from water. Reserve the cooking water. Peel cooked squash and mash into chunks or puree to desired texture.

2. In a small skillet, gently warm the oil and cook onion over moderate heat until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook until soft, without browning.

3. Add onion-garlic mixture, applesauce, and cooked squash to the reserved cooking water in the soup pan. (If using precooked squash, add 2 to 3 cups fresh water to the pan at this time.) Stir in ginger and nutmeg.

4. Bring soup to a boil, turn heat down, and cover. Simmer 15 minutes to let flavors blend. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve topped with a dollop of yogurt and garnished with parsley.

Notes:

Makes 2 servings. Recipe by Rowena Hubbard Cancer Survivor’s Nutrition & Health Guide

Are you a UCSF cancer patient and have some nutrition concerns?

Note: One-on-one Nutrition Counseling is available with one of our four oncology dietitians at no cost to UCSF cancer patients. These appointments are available via zoom (video visit) or telephone, by scheduling through your oncologist office/team.

Jordan's Exercise of the Month

Exercise Counseling:

Are you a UCSF cancer patient looking to regain strength or range of motion?

All UCSF cancer patients are eligible for free one-on-one exercise counseling.

Please refer to your oncology department to make an appointment.

For more information, please call 415-502-5547

(Currently available via Zoom)

Don’t miss the opportunity to add a simple and effective exercise!

Little to no equipment needed! Can be done anywhere with BIG value!

Band Wall Clocks

Have shoulder pain with reaching overhead or with opening/closing doors? This might be an exercise that can help you! This exercise helps with improve shoulder stability by strengthening the muscles around your shoulder blade and the muscles that provide stability to your shoulder joint (rotator cuff). It is a great way to develop stability with movement, which is crucial for the shoulder. It also helps us develop a sense of where the shoulder and hand are positioned (proprioception), which is compromised when we have an injury or chronic pain. We have done this exercise in our Core and More class, and is back by popular demand!

Video from YouTube

Set up Instructions:

Place a TheraBand loop around wrists or hold in your hands.
Place hands on the wall with hands parallel to each other in the middle (starting position).
Move right hand up, then back to the middle, then out to the side, back to the middle, and down, then return to middle. Repeat with left hand.

Tips:

As the hand is moving, keep your shoulders from rising towards your ears and
Actively push the wall away from you with the stabilizing arm.

Repeat the exercise for 3-5 sets on each side.

Have fun, stay safe, and healthy!

-Jordan LaBrec, PT, DPT, MS, CSCS

Core and More Instructor

Did You Know...

Donations

Equipment/Supply Exchange Program + Resources

Striving to enrich the lives of those living with home intravenous nutrition and tube feeding through education, advocacy, and networking.

The Oley Foundation is here for you. Please note: As we work through this national crisis together, Oley staff and volunteers remain committed to handling donations and requests for supplies. You may experience a delay in response as we all try to navigate these changing times. As always, we are here to answer any questions.

Shipping Options

Below are links to recommend shipping organizations.

USPS Priority Flat Rate is the preferred shipping method (especially for heavy items like formula) because USPS Flat Rate does not charge for shipping based on weight - it's a fixed fee based on the size of the package.

Averitt Express or (800) 283-7488. Averitt operates at 143 locations and serves thousands of points throughout the Southern United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

UPS or (800) 742-5877
FedEx or (800) 463-3339

Make a Difference

or Receive Support

View our site

The Oley Foundation

Albany Medical Center, MC-28

99 Delaware Avenue

Delmar, NY 12054

518-262-5079

Community Programs, Events & Resources

American Cancer Society’s Palliative Care

Webinar

Wednesday, January 24th | 11:30 am PT

The purpose of this webinar is to focus on the benefits of Palliative Care for patients with cancer. We will cover the overview of palliative care landscape and resources.

Target Audience: Nurses, providers, case managers, social workers, and others.

(Note: Although this is geared to medical professionals, it may still apply to patients/caregivers.)

Speakers:

Robert L. Fine, MD, MACP, FAAHPM, HEC-C,

Director, Office of Clinical Ethics and Palliative Care

Kristen Rombach, RN, BSN, OCN, American Cancer Society

American Cancer Society Road To Recovery Program

The program gives cancer patients free transportation for cancer-related medical appointments. Our trained volunteer drivers will pick you up, take you to your appointment, and drop you back at home when you’re finished, at no cost to you.

Lifesaving cancer care should not be prevented or delayed because of location or transportation. Connect with us to learn more about Road To Recovery availability in your area and other resources to help you on your cancer journey.

Call the ACS at 800-227-2345 for more information.

For More Information

American Cancer Society Lodging Program is Back

Getting the best care sometimes means cancer patients must travel away from home. This can place an emotional and financial burden on patients and caregivers during an already challenging time. Extended Stay America, the leading mid-priced extended stay hotel brand in the U.S., has committed to making this difficult situation easier for cancer patients and their families. To reduce disparities in cancer outcomes and help patients affordably receive the treatment needed, Extended Stay America has renewed its partnership with the American Cancer Society to offer some reduced rate nights at over 760 Extended Stay America locations nationwide.

Patients who live more than 40 miles from the treatment location and have a demonstrated need for lodging assistance in order to receive cancer treatment will be eligible for the program.

You may call: 800-227-2345 or email SSBCREF@cancer.org

For More Information

More Resources to Explore:

ACS CARES™ (Community Access to Resources, Education, and Support)
Reach To Recovery (One-on-One Support)
Cancer Survivors Network (Support for patients, survivors, caregivers, families, and friends)
“TLC” Tender Loving Care (Discover essential products)

ACS Video Support

Caregiver Support Series

Caregivers are a crucial part of any cancer care team. The goal of this video series is to provide educational support to caregivers as they assist with the everyday needs of cancer patients and provide.

View Here

Serie de apoyo para cuidadores

Los cuidadores son una parte crucial de cualquier equipo de profesionales médicos contra el cáncer. Esta serie de videos tiene la intención de conformar un recurso educativo de apoyo para las personas encargadas del cuidado de una persona con cáncer en relación con sus necesidades cotidianas y ofrecer información sobre técnicas de cuidado para mejorar su calidad de vida.

Ver Aquí

Quit2Heal

Have cancer and want to quit smoking? Quitting smoking can help people with cancer. You may be eligible to join an American Cancer Society collaboration research trial and get exclusive access to a smartphone app with resources to help you quit – and get compensated while doing it. Your participation can not only benefit your health but will also help people in the future. If you have been diagnosed with cancer in the last 12 months and have smoked in the last 30 days, you may be eligible to participate. Today’s life-saving cancer care came from clinical trials like this one. You can be part of the future of cancer care.

Learn more at https://quit2heal.org

or Email: Quit2Heal@fredhutch.org

View Here

WHY RELAY

Relay for Life 2024

Throughout the year!

More than just a fundraising walk, the American Cancer Society Relay For Life brings together passionate supporters who embody the American Cancer Society vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. This volunteer-led experience unites communities to celebrate cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost to cancer, and raise funds to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research, and patient support to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer.

Although each Relay For Life event embraces the uniqueness of the home community, every event does have the same four signature elements: a celebration of cancer survivors, a celebration of caregivers, a luminaria ceremony to honor and remember loved ones, and the opportunity to fight back against cancer.

Watch our Video

Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back

Throughout the year, find when your community

will support these efforts.

Use the link below to enter your county or zip:

JOIN A RELAY

UPCOMING

BIG CLIMB SAN FRANCISCO

STEP UP TO TAKE CANCER DOWN

Saturday, May 4th

Join The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) in the fight to cure blood cancers by participating in Big Climb. Big Climb is more than a stair climb, it's an inspiring, fun & motivating experience. A community of survivors and fellow participants will get you pumped to conquer your climb in honor and support of our mission to find a cure.

You may register by:

…to help us reach our goal.

For more information: https://pages.lls.org/bigclimb/gba/bigclimbsf24

Or you may contact Erica Melgarejo:

415-625-1135 or erica.melgarejo@lls.org

Boosting Your Immune System

Through Movement

Tuesday, March 19th | 4:00 PM PT

The lymph organs play many roles in the body, including fluid balance and immunity. Join this webinar to learn more about how mindfulness and gentle movement can boost your immune system by increasing lymphatic flow. Dr. Martha Eddy originally developed these movements to activate positive immune responses for Moving For Life (MFL), an exercise program originally designed for cancer recovery and now used by both older adults and people of any age concerned about cancer and health.

You will learn:

Simple movements that will improve your immune response
Why lymphatic flow is so important for overall health
How the immune system is influenced by exercise
Movement that reduces swelling and lymphedema, a common side effect of cancer treatment

There will be a live Q&A at the end of the webinar.

Interested in the topic but can’t attend live? Register anyway, and we’ll send you the recording.

Presenter:

Martha Eddy, RSMT, CMA, DEP, MFLCI, EdD in Movement Science

Anti-Inflammatory Diet and Chronic Illness:

What You Need to Know

Watch Our On-Demand Webinar

Curious about which foods are inflammatory, and how they might affect your health? Crystal Cascio, ACLP’s dietitian, will discuss specific foods that influence inflammation in the body and the role of inflammation in chronic illness. Research has found that inflammation can have impacts on overall health and disease risk, including cancer. By learning which foods are anti-inflammatory and which promote inflammation, you’ll be able to make changes in your diet that will lower your risk for chronic illness.

You will learn about:

Defining inflammation and its role in chronic disease
Foods that raise and lower inflammation
Herbs and spices that can decrease inflammation
Other lifestyle factors that can affect inflammation

Presenter:

Crystal Cascio, MS, RD, ACLP’s dietitian

Click Here

Music & Movement Therapy

Sunday, March 10th | 9:00am PT

Join Sharsheret on Sunday, for a structured but instruction-less dance experience for cancer patients and survivors that will meet their needs for joy, healing, connection, emotional expression, and appreciation of what the body can do, as well as a new way of exercising. All movement abilities, including lying in bed and all bodies are welcome.

Instructor:

Beverly Whitewolff

Any questions email Rachel Teicher: rteicher@sharsheret.org

Balancing Work & Cancer Webinar:

Career Shifting: Tips, Tools & Techniques

Wednesday, March 6th | 3:00PM PT

A cancer experience can often a inspire a desire for change or it can require it. Have you become interested in exploring a new career path or do you need to? This session will provides tools for approaching the process of shifting careers.

Topics will include:

Assessing yourself and your transferrable skills
Identifying obstacles and opportunities
Creating an action plan
...and more.

Julie Jansen, Speaker, Trainer and Author

11th Annual Midwest Conference on Work & Cancer

Wednesday, March 22nd

9:00am – 4:00pm CT / 7:00am – 2:00pm PT

This free, daylong is open to patients, survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, advocates, employers, HR professionals and more to explore the complexities of balancing treatment and recovery with employment.

Topics will include:

Balancing treatment and work
Making disclosure decisions
Managing side-effects at work
Communicating effectively in the workplace
What role does AI play in work?
Strategies for using AI in the job search
Setting boundaries
And more...

Note, topics are being added and subject to change.

Registration is now open and we would love to have you join us

for a day of learning and making connections.

More Webinars & Events

See Here

Understanding and Managing

Chemo-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN)

Thursday, March 7th

12:00 – 1:00pm PT

Certain chemotherapy drugs can cause chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), which is one of the most common side effects of treatment. Chemotherapy treatments cause peripheral neuropathy by damaging the nerves in the fingers, hands, arms, legs, and feet. This can lead to symptoms including pain, numbness, tingling, and difficulty with mobility, which can greatly impact one’s quality of life. Dr. Anasheh Halabi is an Assistant Clinical Professor in Neuromuscular Medicine at UCLA who specializes in neuropathies and is a leading specialist in caring for patients with neurotoxicities related to cancer drugs. She will discuss chemotherapy-related neuropathies, expectations, and management. The perspective of a patient who has experienced CIPN will also be included in the program.

Presenter:

Dr. Anasheh Halabi, an Assistant Clinical Professor in Neuromuscular Medicine at UCLA

Moving Forward After Uterine Cancer Treatment:

Surveillance Strategies, Testing, and Watching for Recurrence

Wednesday, March 13th

12:00 – 1:00pm PT

You’ve been treated for uterine cancer. Now what? With surveillance strategies varying from doctor to doctor, it can be hard to know which advice you should follow. Join Dr. Jennifer Mueller, Head of the Endometrial Cancer Section, Gynecologic Oncology Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, as she delves into surveillance guidelines, which tests to consider, and how to keep an eye out for any symptoms which could indicate recurrence.

Presenter:

Dr. Jennifer Mueller, Head of the Endometrial Cancer Section, Gynecologic Oncology Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Tips for Managing Chemobrain

Wednesday, March 27th

9:00 – 9:30am PT

Chemobrain, or mental fogginess, is experienced by many patients during and after cancer treatment. But what are some strategies that help? In this webinar, Dennis Lin, OTD, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist at City of Hope National Medical Center, will provide tips on how you can manage chemobrain, reduce the accompanying symptoms, and support better engagement in your daily life.

Presenter:

Dennis Lin, OTD, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist at City of Hope National Medical Center

More about Programs & Specialized Support Groups

See Here

Ayurvedic Body Clock

Tuesday, March 5th

6:00 – 8:00 PM | *This is a Hybrid meeting

Location: 3276 McNutt Ave, Walnut Creek 94597

An introduction to the Ayurvedic health practices that teaches us to follow a daily schedule of eating, sleeping, digesting our food, working and exercising in accordance with natural elemental rhythms in order to achieve optimal health. Explore this natural way of finding a sense of ease and overall well-being.

With: Dana Chloe Morgan, Ayurvedic Health Coach

*Space available for members to join in-person

Hypnosis for Pain Relief & Healing

Tuesday, March 12th

6:00 – 8:00 PM | *This is a virtual only event*

Learn different ways of managing pain through hypnotic techniques.

With: Brit Lesnett, Clinical Hypnotherapist.

*Zoom Link will be sent to your email once you've registered.

Healing Imagery

Tuesday, March 19th

6:00 – 8:00 PM | *This is a virtual only event*

Learn about the mind-body connection and how we can use meaningful, positive imagery for deep relaxation and support during the healing process.

With: Cynthia McDonald, PhD.

*Zoom Link will be sent to your email once you've registered.

Healthy Detoxing

Wednesday, March 27th

6:00 – 8:00 PM | *This is a virtual only event*

Optimizing your body’s natural detoxification processes is one of the most important ways to improve overall health. Food is an integral part of the equation. In this workshop you will learn about the essential foods and supplemental nutrients that will make detoxing a delicious part of every meal.

Susie White, NC, BCHN

*Zoom Link will be sent to your email once you've registered.

Please visit the calendar for more

events & programs

Our Calendar

Mindfulness and Gratitude Experiential Group

(In Cantonese) 靜觀感恩體驗 (粵語進⾏)

⽇期：3/8, 3/15, 3/22, 3/29/2024（逢星期五，共四堂）

時間：上午9:30 – 11:00am

Are you feeling physically and mentally exhausted from caregiving? Don’t have enough time for yourself? Stressed? Little interest or pleasure in doing things?

Queenie sincerely invites you to join the Mindfulness and Gratitude Experiential Group. You can learn mindfulness and gratitude skills from the group and practice your learnt skills in your daily life.

Research findings showed that practicing mindfulness can lessen a person’s pressure, improve emotional stability, immune system and interpersonal relationships.

By practicing gratitude and mindfulness, you can gain internal peace, boost your positive energy and live in a satisfying life!

你是否因照顧家⼈⽽感到⾝⼼俱疲? 時間不⾜? 感到壓⼒? 做事好像提不起勁?

研究顯⽰，靜觀能緩和壓⼒、穩定情緒、提⾼免疫機能及改善⼈際關係。

陳姑娘誠意邀請你參加靜觀感恩體驗⼩組。透過⼩組的體驗及互動的交流，你能了解及掌握靜觀和感恩的技巧，並在⽇常⽣活實踐靜觀和感恩的⽣活態度，提升情緒健康，增加正能量，讓你的⼈⽣過得更稱⼼如意!

Contact: Queenie Lai-Kwan Chan 陳麗君, (415) 528-3883, qchan@caregiver.org

This class is funded by Alameda County Department of Adult and Aging Services, Contra Costa County Area Agency on Aging, the City of San Francisco’s Department of Disability and Aging Services, San Mateo County Aging and Adult Services, Source wise, and the California Department of Aging.

Updates from San Antonio: (Hybrid)

Metastatic Breast Cancer

Tuesday, March 19th | 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm

In-person and via Zoom

Location: BACC Office | 1511 S. Claremont Street | San Mateo, CA 94402

Learn about this year’s progress in breast cancer research from BACC’s Director of Cancer Information and Education, Erika Bell, Ph.D., and Åsa Sharif, M.D., Health Educator. They will review data on metastatic breast cancer presented at the 47th Annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. This conference brings together the world’s most prominent scientists and clinicians in breast cancer research to share new findings that have the potential to change the way we think about and treat breast cancer. Please come join us in person, or sign up online.

Facilitated by: Erika Bell, Ph.D. and Åsa Sharif, M.D.

For more information or to sign up please contact:

Ámbar Sandoval Ambar@bayareacancer.org or call our Helpline at 650-326-6686

Yoga for Healing and Recovery (Hybrid)

Mondays | 9:30 am – 11:00 am

In-person and via Zoom (This will be a drop-in class)

Location: BACC Office | 1511 S. Claremont Street | San Mateo, CA 94402

Join us, in person, for Light Athletic Stretch and Release (LASR) yoga using a mat or chair, blocks, and straps. This class is a moderate yoga flow for all levels.

Facilitated by Jido Lee Ferguson

For more information or to sign up please contact:

Ámbar Sandoval Ambar@bayareacancer.org or call our Helpline at 650-326-6686

UPCOMING

National Webinar

How to Talk to Kids About a Cancer

Wednesday, April 3rd | 4:00 – 5:00 PM PT

Telling kids about a parent or guardian’s cancer diagnosis can be hard. At the same time, research shows that open, age-appropriate conversations with kids about their parent’s illness helps to decrease their worry, stress, and anxiety. These open conversations also promote their social-emotional wellbeing.

Learn how to talk to kids about cancer. Register for this webinar to receive a free digital copy of our Pickles Family Support Kit.

Presenter:

Chief Clinical Program Officer, Kelsey Mora, an expert in supporting families through illness.

Did you know:

You can request a Family Cancer Support Kit

Request it Here

Community Supporting You

Support for Children & Teens

Who has a Parent with Cancer

Today our children and teens communicate differently.

Find what works best for your family.

Facebook | My Parent Has Cancer and It Really Sucks

First, know that there are an estimated 1 million other US teenagers with a parent who has cancer. Teens supporting teens can make a difference

American Cancer Society | “Helping Children When a Family Member Has Cancer”

Cancer Support Community | Talking to Kids & Teens

“Talking to Kids and Teens About Cancer”

“Worry about Family Children and Friends”

National Cancer Institute | “When Your Parent Has Cancer: A Guide for Teens”

MD Anderson Center | “When a parent has cancer: Helping teens and kids cope”

Camp Kesem | "Transformation Support of an Empowering Community"

We believe all children facing a parent's cancer deserve the chance to fully experience the joys of childhood and be their best selves.

I’m Still Okay!

What will happen if something happens to you?

I’m Still Okay is a free daily check-in service for seniors living alone, anywhere in the world. I’m Still Okay provides an option for you to stay in touch with loved ones and prepare for a possible mishap in a dignified and empowering way.

Even if you live alone, you can live your life with peace of mind,

knowing that your loved ones are notified if you ever need their help.

Click & Sign up here:

I'm Still Okay

Blood Cancer Information Specialists

Speak one-on-one with a blood cancer Information Specialist who can assist you through blood cancer treatment, and financial and social challenges, and give accurate up-to-date disease treatment and support information. Our Information Specialists are highly trained oncology social workers and nurses located in the United States.

Call: (800) 955-4572

Monday to Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT

Or leave a message 24/7 (anytime) and an Information Specialist will return your call as soon as possible.

You can also listen to recorded information about LLS and our programs.

If you need information about your Co-Pay Award or any other LLS Financial Assistance Program status, or help with the online portal,

please call (877) 557-2672, 5:30 am - 2:00 pm PT.

Local Financial Assistance for Napa County and

Bay Area Peninsula Residents

Those who qualify will receive $500 to cover the cost of non-medical expenses for the patient and caregiver including transportation, housing, utilities and more. Applicants must have a blood cancer diagnosis confirmed by a doctor.

For more information: Apply Here

LTo find out about additional resources

Call: 800-955-4572 or visit: LLS Support & Resources

All services are offered free of charge

Pink Ribbon Girls provide FREE direct services to women with

breast cancer and gynecological cancers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.

(Any stage, any age, no restrictions on income,

however some geographic restrictions may apply)

SERVICES

(Services are also available for men diagnosed with breast cancer)

Healthy Meals - Meals which target the nutrients a cancer patient needs, prepared by executive chefs and professionally delivered to your home
Housecleaning Kits - Provided with all-natural, plant- and mineral-based cleaning supplies along with a lightweight vacuum
Rides to Treatment - Provided by Uber Health
Peer Support - Offering you the support you need in the community you are in

OUR TWO PROGRAMS:

Simply Fight Program: For a diagnosis of Stage 1-3, the above services are offered for (2) Months.
No Age No Stage Program: For Stage 4 or Metastatic Cancer Patients and these services are provided for a longer period.

Geographical Limitations May Apply for All Services

We service the Bay area and within a 40-mile radius

For support for yourself or loved one, Click Here

If you would like to donate to this organization, Click Here

You may contact us directly at: 877-269-5367

Women’s Cancer Resource Center “WCRC” to provide direct services

to women with cancer, and to advocate for changes in the health care system.

Free Therapy Sessions with Women's Cancer Resource Center's

Licensed Therapists:

Cancer diagnosis and treatment can be challenging. While the journey can be a long road, we offer compassionate assistance along the way. We match eligible clients with one of our professionally licensed therapists for 12 sessions.

In response to public health and safety issues related to COVID-19, this program is being conducted via telehealth platform (video chat or phone). We understand that mental wellness is an important part of one's overall health. Brief term work can help clients prioritize personal goals, support emotional release of stress, and successfully identify techniques for coping and opportunities for emotional healing. Our Program is available for women and non-binary individuals, who make less than $30,000 per year and uninsured clients and couples.

To see if our Free Therapy Program is a proper fit for your counseling needs, or if you have general questions about the program, please call 510-809-0216 and leave a message.

WCRC Support Groups - See Website for Schedules

Latinas con cancer (En Espanol)
Holistic, Integrative and Alternative Medicine Support Group
Women with Metastatic Cancer (Daytime)
Women with Metastatic Cancer (Evening)
Adults with Blood-related Cancer and Their Friends, Families and Caregivers
Sister to Sister African American Women with Cancer (Berkeley)
Sister to Sister African American Women with Cancer (Richmond)
Women with Cancer
Bay Area Young Survivors

For more information or to register, please call Veronica 510-809-0209 or email veronica@wcrc.org

_____________________

WCRC also provides a range of services

to support women (and their families) throughout their cancer journey.

Website: www.wcrc.org or Email: wcrc@wcrc.org

Daily Weekday

Nature Meditations

An Online Practice Group, via Zoom

Mondays - Fridays | 7:30 - 8:15 am

Every weekday morning, mindfulness teachers/instructors will lead a nature-oriented, guided meditation session for anyone. Sessions include a short talk, followed by a 30-minute guided meditation.

Morning meditation can help one wake up and begin the day feeling more centered, focused, and uplifted, and the natural world can inspire our practice. Attendees are welcome to participate from any peaceful environment, ideally in nature or with a view of nature.

Instructors:

Mark Coleman, Rachelle Calvert, Diethild Simon, Nina Horne Odin Zackman

Love Recovery Meal 愛心康復餐

Nutritious diet supports cancer patients’ recovery

New Hope Chinese Cancer Care Foundation launches short-term meal service for cancer patients in need during treatment.

"Ask the Doctor" 問醫生

Free Doctor’s Consultation. Oncology specialist Dr. Dai Rongtao answers various questions about cancer treatment for cancer patients and their families.

As the situation with the pandemic improves, this event has returned to being conducted in-person at our Milpitas office.

Our Mission: 我們的任務：

To serve Chinese cancer patients and families through service, education, advocacy, and research.

New Hope Chinese Cancer Care Foundation serves patients regardless of religion, gender, age and region; and serves Chinese cancer patients and their families with the implementation of services and integrated use of resources.

透過服務、教育、宣傳和研究為華人癌症患者和家庭服務。

新希望中華癌症關懷基金會為病人服務，不分宗教、性別、年齡、地理；為華人癌症患者及其家屬提供服務實施和資源整合利用。

Visit our website 造訪我們的網站

For these services and more, please call the office for enquiries:

408-609-3338

如需這些服務及更多服務，請致電辦公室詢問：

408-609-3338

Bay Area Cancer Connections

Support Groups

Breast Cancer Support Group for BIPOC

3rd Mondays | 5:30 - 7:00pm

Facilitated by Dolores Moorehead, M.S., APCC

Please call our Helpline at 650-326-6686

__________________

Spanish Language Breast Cancer Support Group:

United Women

Grupo de apoyo de cáncer de mama en español:

Mujeres Unidas

3rd Thursdays | Tercer Jueves del mes | 6:30pm-7:30pm

(Space is limited) | (El espacio es limitado)

Facilitado por Tatiana Martinez, LMFT

To Register:

Please call our Helpline at | Para mas informacion, llame al 650-326-6686

Multiple Myeloma Support

for SF Bay Area

Multiple Myeloma Support Group

3rd Saturdays 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Virtual

We're here to help patients, their families, and loved ones. Multiple myeloma need not be seen as a death sentence, but rather a disease to be managed. Education and support are key. We have newly diagnosed patients as well as patients diagnosed more than 10 years ago. We share what we know about myeloma diagnosis, symptoms, markers, treatments, side-effects, clinical trials, quality of life, and many other topics of interest.

For more information email: Jack Aiello or Rob Salmon

Fertility

Health Benefits

Advocating for

Fertility Health Benefits

Fertility Within Reach is a national non-profit dedicated to helping individuals increase access to fertility treatment and preservation. Cost or access to fertility preservation should not be a barrier in someone’s ability to start a family when they choose.

Fertility Preservation (Adolescent Oncology)

Fertility preservation gives many families a chance to look forward, allowing them to imagine a future beyond cancer where they do not need to lose hope of having a biological child. Studies have shown that childhood cancer survivors express regret if their fertility is affected by prior therapy and they were not counseled at diagnosis and during their treatment. Fertility Within Reach aims to support youth and their families through this journey, expand the options for parenthood, and provide financial support for fertility preservation.

Fertility Preservation (Transgender)

Fertility preservation is a beacon of hope for many patients, allowing them to imagine a future where they do not need to give up the possibility of having a biological child. Studies have shown that most adults who chose gender-affirming treatment in adolescence were not counseled about preserving their fertility during treatment. Fertility Within Reach supports transgender youth and their families through this journey, broadens the options for parenthood, and provides financial support for fertility preservation.

Visit their website

Open to Options:

A service of the

Cancer Support Community

Have you recently been diagnosed with a new or recurrent cancer? Do you need to make decisions about treatment options? Do you have an appointment scheduled to meet with your doctor?

Cancer Support Community offers a question listing service to help you prepare for your upcoming oncology visit. This service is available at no cost to anyone diagnosed with a new or recurrent cancer who has to make decisions about treatment options. The goals of this program are to help you communicate clearly with your medical team, ask critical questions about your options, and help ensure that your treatment decisions fit your personal hopes and goals. To make an appointment, please call us at 925-933-0107 or 888-793-9355.

Learn more here

Motivate to Move & Heal

Since 1970, more than 15,000 published studies have proved exercise is medicine in cancer. Even in brain cancer. That’s important news for the more than 18 million individuals who have cancer worldwide. However, only 15-20 percent are told exercise can aid recovery and prevent cancer’s reoccurrence.

Filmed over two years and at major cancer centers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, California, Virginia and Denmark, MOVING THROUGH CANCER chronicles innovative programs that emphasize exercise throughout the cancer journey, with experts and patients providing first hand testimonies.

UCSF’s Dr. Susan Chang and her WOW – Workout for Wellness program are featured in the film as models for cancer centers worldwide. It’s only 17 minutes long, and you are welcome to post the link on social media or send it to friends. The book, MOVING THROUGH CANCER, is now available on Amazon.

Coming soon is a webpage on THEFUNDFOR SUSTAINABLETOMORROWS.ORG where you’ll be able to post comments and learn more about other leading programs. We hope this short video will motivate you or someone you know to continue to move through cancer.

To watch Moving Through Cancer

Click Here

MarinHealth:

Free Weekly Online QiGong for Cancer Survivors & Chronic Illness

Thursdays | 10:00 - 11:00 am

QiGong is a form of gentle, exacting movement and still meditation that uses the breath and mind to work with the body’s energy (or Qi). The intention is to help patients regain a deep sense of trust in their bodies and to encourage an open, relaxed, and calm mental state that more readily allows self-healing. This class is best suited to cancer patients and those with chronic illnesses. UCSF patients and caregivers are welcomed.

Visit our website

NCEFT Open House:

Mental Health & Resilience Program

Learn about the benefits of Equine Assisted Therapy. Join them for an informational hour. Meet the staff and their heard of horses, learn about what they do and stay up-to-date on upcoming programming.

NCEFT is a non-profit physical, occupational and mental health therapy facility in Woodside, CA. For over 50 years, NCEFT has tapped into the profound rehabilitative power of the human-horse relationship to facilitate healing to thousands of Bay Area children and adults (ages 2-85+) living with physical, cognitive, and neuromuscular disabilities, as well as mental health conditions/concerns.

Participants will learn tools to help cope with their diagnosis, and gain a positive sense of self through:

Mindfulness exercises with horses
Bonding and caring for horses
Group Discussion
Guided meditation
Participating in barn life
Journaling
Community building

For more information or to appllly for a program

Call: 650-851-2271 or see website

Visit our Website

Meditative Hiking

(In person)

Explore the outdoors and be present to the flow of conscious awareness in and around you. Meditative walks or 'mindfulness hikes' are a special opportunity for embodied walking, self-observation, mindful movement, reflection, lightheartedness, and building intra & interpersonal community.

This month's locations are coming soon:

Below are the usual locations, but may vary.

Please email the Facilitator or visit the website for details.

Mountain Lake to Baker Beach, round trip. Meet at the NE corner of the tennis courts, which are approximately 30 meters North of the intersection at Lake Street and 12th Avenue in San Francisco.

Park Presidio (round trip) meet in the parking lot at 300 Finley Road, San Francisco.

Glen Canyon Park to Cole Valley (one-way), meet at the corner of Elk and Chenery Streets in San Francisco. Public transportation is suggested for this hike. You can also utilize BART, MUNI, or Uber when arriving or when concluding our hike.

Cost: Donation based. A suggested donation of $10-20

Email to confirm dates and times: Email James Mitchell or text/call: 415-290-6718.

Visit our website

JAM4JOY Zumba Classes

Daily classes | See virtual and outdoor schedule below

JAM4JOY is a non-profit organization founded by Zumba instructors Judy Young and Angie Shin, who have been teaching together since 2015. JAM4JOY Zumba classes are offered for FREE or donations are gladly accepted. It is our mission to bring people together in community in a healthy way, to reduce isolation, and to educate about and support important causes impacting our community. Donations received for our classes, after expenses are sent to local organizations.

(Near various Holidays, dates may vary. Please email to confirm)

VIRTUAL CLASSES:

Mondays: 12:00 noon PT
Tuesdays: 5:30 pm PT
Wednesdays: 12:00 noon PT
Thursdays: 5:30 pm PT
Fridays: 12:00 noon PT
Saturdays: 9:00 am PT

IN-PERSON OUTDOOR CLASS:

Sundays: 10:00 am PT (Berkeley, CA)

Join JAM4JOY: Sign up now to get the weekly updates and zoom links

Contact for more information: jam4joy2020@gmail.com

Low Impact Virtual Exercise Classes

Tuesdays & Thursdays

12:00 - 12:30 pm PT

These 30 minute Low Impact Training Classes are free of charge for cancer survivors, thrivers, and caregivers.

Partnering with: Low Impact/Intensity Training (LIT)

What is Low Impact Training?

A combo of functional strength, stretching, balance, and low-intensity
Designed for those that want to improve their fitness level without feeling overwhelmed
Chair/wall useful for supported exercises
Alternative exercises offered for limitations/injuries
All exercises are low impact to reduce stress on body
Positive, encouraging atmosphere- you can do it!

Partnering with SweatCity Fitness

Campfires of Hope:

Stories of Cancer aims to empower the adult cancer community through storytelling and education.

The Campfires of Hope: Stories of Cancer podcast brings warmth, storytelling, and education to the cancer community. Campfire is a time for gathering together with family and friends, being in the present moment, and feeling love and connection as we share and receive knowledge from one another. During these campfire chats we discuss topics that empower those impacted by cancer, including mental health, living with stage 4 cancer, working with your medical team, personal wellness, fertility, and more.

Available where you listen to podcasts.

Join Our Podcast

JUST FOR FUN!

Last Month's Answers

Can You Find the 5 Differences?

The answers will be revealed next month

Online Resources and Activities

COVID Information Resources

UCSF's FAQ: Coronavirus and Patients with Cancer
Coronavirus COVID-19 Links for the UCSF Cancer Community
Guide to Living with Worry and Anxiety Amidst Global Uncertainty
Coronavirus: What People with Cancer Should Know, by National Cancer Institute
Staying Well While Staying Home, for Cancer Patients, by CDC
What You Need to Know About Hand Washing, video tutorial by CDC
Coronavirus and Cancer Resources for Survivors, Nat'l Coalition for Cancer Survivorship
Cancer and COVID-19: What You Should Know about Increased Risk, Cleveland Clinic
Your Cancer Care during the Time of COVID, TIME article by UCSF's Dr. Laura Esserman

Well-Being Resources

12 Free Psychotherapy Sessions for low-income women with cancer from WCRC
COVID-19 and Cancer Patient Support Group by CancerCare
Healing Circles Global, with Commonweal
Resources for Coping with COVID-19, by Living Beyond Breast Cancer
The HeartMath Experience, to ease stress and increase your resilience
Managing Fear During Coronavirus, SurvivorNet video with UCSF's Dr. Dianne Shumay
Resources to Support Your Mental Health During Covid-19, from UCSF Psychiatry
How To Stay Resilient And Mentally Healthy During The Coronavirus Outbreak, NPR interview with UCSF's Dr. Elissa Epel
Healthy at Home: Tips for Wellness and Balance, by UCSF Campus Life Services
Coping with Quarantine, recording with Rick Hanson, PhD
B-Well Together: Wellbeing Breaks, by Salesforce
Guide to Well-Being During Coronavirus, by Greater Good Science Center
Six Daily Questions to Ask Yourself During Quarantine, by Greater Good Science Center
Mission Hospice and Homecare Events

Online Mindfulness / Meditation

Live:

Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD, founder of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, weekdays at 11:00
Ten Percent Happier, free live meditation sessions every weekday at noon PST

Recorded:

UCSF Osher Center Guided Meditations and Imagery
Mindfulness, Healing and Wisdom in a Time of COVID-19, with Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD
Pandemic Care Resources, meditations and talks by Tara Brach
Insight Timer, free meditation app for your smart phone

Online Movement Classes

Live:

Moving for Life, New York-based classes for cancer patients
Yoga on the Labyrinth, from Grace Cathedral

Recorded:

Massachusetts General Hospital's yoga video for cancer patients
Virtual Garden Yoga, recorded at the San Francisco Botanical Garden
UCSF Campus Life Services Workouts (especially yoga or low-impact exercises)

Online Education and Enrichment

Videos on Cancer

Movies and Talks

Kanopy (free with a library card)
TED Talks
Live Online Sundays in the Gardens Tours:
City Arts & Lectures events

Museum and Cultural Tours

12 Virtual Museum Tours, from Travel & Leisure
Virtual Tours of Museums, Zoos and Theme Parks, from Good Housekeeping
50 Ways to Experience Culture from Your Couch, from CNN

Concerts

Making Art

UCSF Maker's Lab's online classes. Note: non-UCSF patients must e-mail to register.
UCSF Art For Recovery, weekly Facebook group, e-mail Amy Van Cleve for details
Color our Collections, downloadable, printable coloring pages from the Smithsonian

Online Classes

Khan Academy
BerkeleyX, free online courses from UC Berkeley
HarvardX, free online courses from Harvard University

English

Español

中文

Cancer Center New Patient Guidebook

(Click preferred language or link above for all versions of the Guidebook)

For a printed copy, please call: 415-885-3693

For more support services click below

With Gratitude to the Donna Smith Fund

Our support groups are made possible in part by a generous donation from the Donna Smith Fund. Donna Smith was a woman of indomitable spirit, who met her cancer diagnosis with personal strength and dignity, with the support of her family and friends. Throughout her illness, Donna encountered many patients who did not have the same benefit of financial and family support systems; consequently, she found the physical and emotional suffering of her fellow patients intolerable. Despite her own deteriorating health, Donna and her family were moved by the plight of these patients, and they established the Donna Smith Fund to help them gain access to special resources and programs that might ease their burden.