Locals celebrate National Cancer Survivors Day
All across the nation folks were celebrating life in observation of “National Cancer Survivors Day” on Saturday, June 7th.
A local event took place in Salisbury Saturday afternoon on Riverside Drive. PRMC’s “Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute” and “Cancer Support Services” hosted the celebration to honor those who fought and survived, but also to recognize their caregivers who fought alongside them.
During the event, organizers addressed emotional treatment. It’s an important type of cancer care that some believe is often overlooked.
Finding out you have cancer can be emotionally overwhelming. Radiation oncologist Dr. John Mansueti says research is now taking that into account.
Dr. Mansueti says, “There was an interesting study that just came out that said one and three cancer survivors is dealing with pretty significant anxiety, depression, or a disorder of just having to deal with their diagnosis.”
These issues can affect their overall recovery. Those who have beaten the disease may be living in constant fear of it coming back. However, PRMC has been tackling these issues through their Cancer Support Services. The support groups are facilitated by licensed social workers. letting the patients lead the way.
Lisa Barnes, oncology social worker says, “There are really not too many things we don’t talk about. There are a few tears sometimes, especially when we lose a member, or if someone is having a rough time. However, there is also so much joy and laughter. I don’t think people realize that’s in support groups.”
We’re told the hospital has offered these free groups for at least four years. The groups also provide exercise classes and support groups which focus on specific types of cancer.
However, folks who work in Cancer Support Services admit turnout has been pretty low. Some sessions only see five people. Jessie Coleman, a colon cancer survivor of seven years says she reaped the benefits of these free services. She recommends it to others.
Coleman goes on, “A lot of people that go through this are alone. This gives you some place to be able to go to be able to talk to people that have been through similar types of things.”
Even though Coleman has beaten cancer, she continues to go to stay active and pay it forward to those who might still be fighting.
We’re told anyone interested in participating in “Cancer Support Services” at can reach out to their oncology certified licensed clinical social worker Lisa Barnes at 410-543-7209.
