PNH: Support Groups are Important Part of Cancer Wellness

Pictured above: The Thomas F. Chapman Family Cancer Wellness Center

From Piedmont Newnan Hospital

There are over one hundred hours of programming each month at the Thomas F. Chapman Family Cancer Wellness at Piedmont Newnan Hospital, ranging from exercise classes and cooking demonstrations, to gatherings of individuals interested in arts and crafts.

Each program has an educational value and connects people at various points on their cancer journey with others, but often the most beneficial and most highly regarded programs offered are the support groups.

There are currently four active support groups offered each month, many of which formed when Cancer Wellness launched in 2014. While the numbers of attendees can vary from group to group or month to month, the consistency of the programs offered provides an important resource for individuals and families facing a cancer diagnosis.

Recently, a men’s support group was added, to support men who have been diagnosed with any type of cancer. Led by a prostate cancer survivor, these monthly discussions will provide information, emotional support, education and resources.

“Each support group may have a different overall focus, but they all provide a way for someone to get what they need, whether that’s advice, answers, encouragement, or just someone to listen,” said Jennifer Palmer, Program Coordinator, Thomas. F. Chapman Family Cancer Wellness. “The support groups all have excellent facilitators, but it’s the individual members who truly lead the groups and often provide terrific insight and support.”

Support groups offered each month at Piedmont Newnan are:
• Breast Cancer Support Group, second Wednesday of each month at 3 p.m.
• Men’s Support Group, fourth Wednesday of each month at 1 p.m.
• Survivors’/Caregivers’ Support Group, third Wednesday of each month at 3 p.m.

The support groups all meet at Thomas F. Chapman Family Cancer Wellness located in Suite 310 at the Piedmont Medical Plaza 1, adjacent to the main hospital. Those interested in attending a meeting should park in front of Medical Plaza 1 and take the elevators to the third floor. Each support group is free and no registration is required.

To find out more about which groups are offered and when, visit piedmont.org/cancer or call 770-400-4020.