Centegra Health System will celebrate National Cancer Survivors Day Sunday, June 5 by honoring cancer survivors and the Centegra support groups they turn to for help and understanding. The day is a celebration of life that reminds participants that life after a cancer diagnosis can be meaningful and productive.”A person becomes a cancer survivor the day he or she receives a cancer diagnosis,” said Amy Moerschbaecher, executive director of oncology services with Centegra Health System. “We celebrate life every day at the Centegra Sage Cancer Center with people who are receiving care as well as those who are enjoying healthy lives after cancer treatment.” Visitors to the Centegra Sage Cancer Center are welcomed by caring volunteers and associates who help them feel comfortable and at ease. Patients are introduced to the complete continuum of cancer care services that are available at the cancer center as they get to know the friendly and supportive staff and physicians. The complete continuum of care is the reason Centegra has been approved by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.The Centegra Sage Cancer Center 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 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
- Hats Off
- Living with Grief
- Look Good” ¦Feel Better
- HOPE (High on Positive Energy).
Also, Centegra will launch a new support group for patients, cancer survivors and their family members on Facebook, coming in early June. Not all groups are cancer specific and they are completely free to the community.Members of Centegra’s support groups will gather from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 5 at the Centegra Sage Cancer Center to celebrate Cancer Survivor’s Day. Cancer survivors are encouraged to celebrate and share their strength with others.To learn more about the Centegra Sage Cancer Center, the different services and support groups offered, call 815-344-8000, or visit www.centegra.org/cancer.
