Separate support group offered for children during meetings

To address the needs of women who have been diagnosed with cancer of any kind, a new Cancer Support Group for Women has been established by the Cape Canaveral Hospital and the American Cancer Society. At the first meeting, Thursday, Feb. 7, women can learn more about "Genetics and Breast Cancer" from Isaac Esseesse, MD, a board-certified oncologist with Hematology Oncology Associates of Central Brevard.

Simultaneously with the Cancer Support Group for Women sessions, which will meet the first Thursday of each month from 6 to 7:30 pm, children ages 6 to 11 can attend a separate Support Group in an adjoining room. The Cancer Support Group for Women will take place in the Cape Canaveral Hospital Medical Plaza, Conference Room B, 701 W. Cocoa Beach Causeway, in Cocoa Beach.

"According to the American Cancer Society data, one out of every three women has some type of cancer at some point during their lifetime," said Gail Dunbar, LCSW, social worker in Case Management at Cape Canaveral Hospital. "As healthcare professionals, we understand that women who are diagnosed with cancer can experience feelings of denial, helplessness, fear, and become overwhelmed by the decisions they must make. That is why we are starting this new Cancer Support Group for Women."

According to Dunbar, the support group will address educational issues, treatment options, as well as psychological and emotional issues. "We also understand that children who have parents with a cancer diagnosis need support too. That's why we are offering a separate support group for children ages 6 to 11 that will be held in an adjoining room."

For more information, please contact Gail Dunbar, or Catherine Burrows at (321)799-7102.