All cancer patients, survivors and caregivers in McHenry County are encouraged to attend a free presentation by award-winning guest speaker Mike Byster. The free program, “Memory Support for Cancer Survivors,” will be offered from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 4 in the classrooms at Centegra Hospital-McHenry.
Byster is the creator of the award-winning memory system Brainetics, founder of Brainetics, LLC and an author. He has helped thousands of people unleash their brain’s full potential and become smarter, more creative and more productive at work, home, and life with his simple, fun and revolutionary methods.
“Cancer patients often have trouble recalling information,” said John Heinrich, director of diagnostic and oncology services at Centegra Health System. “Known as ‘chemo brain,’ it is a substantial problem for some patients. This program, however, will help them improve their memory, concentration, decision-making and productivity by giving them tools that can improve their quality of life.”
The H.O.P.E. (High on Positive Energy) Support Group of the Centegra Gavers Breast Center is sponsoring the program. To RSVP, call 877-CENTEGRA (877-236-8347).
The Centegra Sage Cancer Center at Centegra Hospital-McHenry provides state-of-the art technology and procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, including medical imaging, radiation oncology, medical oncology and surgery.
The cancer center also provides emotional and spiritual support to help people with cancer and their families cope with their diagnosis and treatment. Centegra chaplains are available to counsel people in need, to offer prayers for healing or to simply sit in silent companionship. Physicians, nurses and technicians are other members of the cancer care team who work with patients to develop individualized care plans that are tailored to their needs.
Centegra’s cancer support groups are another important part of the program because they allow patients and their families to share their experiences and to learn from each other. The services offered to the community provide support, care and comfort and promote the community atmosphere many find so motivational. The ongoing and free support groups are open to anyone affected by cancer or their survivors, and include:
- Cancer Transitions
- Care for the Caregiver
- Pathfinders
- Living with Grief
- Look Good…Feel Better
- H.O.P.E.
Also, Centegra provides a support group for patients, cancer survivors and their family members on Facebook at Centegra Cancer Connection. Not all groups are cancer specific and they are completely free to the community. To learn more about the Centegra Sage Cancer Center and the different services and support groups offered, call 815-344-8000, or visit www.centegra.org/cancer.
