Showing posts with label Louisiana. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Louisiana. Show all posts

Thursday, October 04, 2012

Five Fabulous Years of Fit and Fearless!



A Fit and Fearless group after a Tuesday morning class.

An original exercise class created especially for those living with and beyond cancer, Cancer Services introduced Fit and Fearless in September 2007 when oncology professionals were recommending cancer survivors to be active after treatment. Including strength training, cardiovascular  and flexibility exercises, the class is offered three times each week and this September, we’re celebrating FIVE YEARS of being Fit and Fearless! Many participants have been coming since the beginning, but newcomers are always welcome – male and female! “For new people, this group could not be more hospitable” says Laura LeBlanc, a certified fitness expert who helped design the class and still teaches it today.
 
Exercise has been shown to lessen anxiety and depression, improve mood and self-esteem, and reduce fatigue and pain.  But more than the physical benefits, Fit and Fearless participants thrive emotionally from their classmates’ support. “We think of ourselves as a gift to each other,” says Gloria Graham, one of the charter members, “We can talk about anything here.”

Fit and Fearless meets at BREC Independence Park (across the street from Cancer Services) Mondays and Thursdays at 5:15 p.m. and Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. Cancer Services also offers Yoga Thrive and Zumba Gold. Classes are free of charge and clients in all stages of  survivorship are welcome with a doctor’s permission. The Cancer Services Library/Resource Center loans DVDs of Fit and Fearless classes and these 3 different discs are also available for purchase at $15 each – proceeds benefit Cancer Services.  

For more information about our Exercise Program call 225-927-2273 or visit our website at www.cancerservices.org. The mission of Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge is to improve life for those living with cancer. 



New Direction for After Hours Support Group



Originally designed to offer clients more opportunities to benefit from our support services, the weekly After Hours Support Group meetings have taken a direction all their own. Adult Programs Coordinator Natalie Depp, LMSW hosts everything from screening cancer-related movies and TV shows to creative endeavors like collaging or journaling to special events to mark cancer awareness months. 

This fall the group will see a bit of a revamp. Now meeting on Wednesday evenings – still at 6p.m. –one meeting of each month will be “An Introduction to a Cancer Diagnosis.” Especially designed for those newly diagnosed and their families, these meetings will benefit anyone wishing to acquaint or reacquaint themselves with the facts and vocabulary of cancer and its treatments.  Director of Support Programs Esther Sachse, LCSW stresses the importance of education for our clients: “The newly diagnosed cancer survivor has an immediate need for accurate information regarding their cancer diagnosis and treatment options.  They need a safe place to share their feelings and concerns.  Our programs offer help and support when they need it most.”

For more information about this or any of our support groups, call 927-2273 or visit our website at www.cancerservices.org. The mission of Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge is to improve life for those living with cancer.  

Friday, February 24, 2012

Q&A: Caregiver Bill of Rights

Every Sunday, Cancer Services publishes a Cancer Q&A in the Health Section of The Baton Rouge Advocate.

Q: My sister has been diagnosed with cancer and I am her sole caregiver. I find myself being short with her and other people more and more and then I feel guilty about it. Is this normal?

A: It is normal for caregivers to experience feelings of guilt, fatigue, and irritation. It is important for caregivers to pay attention to their own feelings and needs. The National Cancer Institute suggests referring to the following while caring for a loved one.

  • I have the right to take care of myself. This is not an act of selfishness. It will give me the ability to take better care of my loved one.
  • I have the right to seek help from others even though my loved one may object. I know the limits of my own endurance and strength.
  • I have the right to maintain parts of my own life that do not include the person I care for, just as I would if he were healthy. I know that I do everything that I reasonably can do for this person. I have the right to do some things just for myself.
  • I have the right to get angry, be depressed, and express difficult feelings once in a while.
  • I have the right to reject any attempt by my loved one to make me do things out of guilt or anger, (It doesn't matter if she knows that she is doing it or not).
  • I have the right to get consideration, affection, forgiveness, and acceptance for what I do for my loved one, as I offer these in return.
  • I have the right to take pride in what I'm doing. And I have the right to applaud the courage it has taken to meet the needs of my loved one.
  • I have the right to protect my individuality. I also have the right to a life that will sustain me in times when my loved one no longer needs my full-time help.
The Caregiver Support Group at Cancer Services meets the second Friday of every month at noon. Anyone caring for a loved one, no matter the ailment, is encouraged to attend to help better take care of themselves. Call Natalie at 225-927-2273 if you’d like more information.


For more information contact Courtney Britton, librarian at Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge at (225) 927-2273 or visit the Resource Center at 550 Lobdell Avenue.

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

2012 Cancer Services Open Houses

Every month,Cancer Services hosts an Open House inviting everyone in the Greater Baton Rouge area to learn more about the free programs and services offered to those living with cancer in this community. We encourage everyone to come tour our facility to see firsthand how we improve life for those living with cancer. You'll have the chance to speak with our staff, clients and board members to learn the place Cancer Services has in the community. Light refreshments served.
We are also able to schedule your group or company for a private tour tailored to your needs or interests. If you have questions or would like to attend, please call Connie at 225-927-2273.

Cancer affects everyone and until there’s a cure, Cancer Services is here to help. Come and see how.
Thursday, January 19th 8 - 9:30a.m.
Friday, February 10th 11:30a.m. - 1p.m.
Monday, March 19th 11a.m. - 2p.m.
Tuesday, April 17th 8 - 9:30a.m.
Thursday, May 17th 11:30a.m. - 1p.m.
Thursday, June 21st 4 - 6p.m.
Wednesday, July 18th 8 - 9:30a.m.
Friday, August 17th 11:30a.m. - 1p.m.
Tuesday, September 18th 4 - 6p.m.
Thursday, October 18th 8 - 9:30a.m.
Friday, November 16th 11:30a.m. - 1p.m.
Thursday, December 6th 11a.m. - 2p.m.

Monday, January 09, 2012

Q&A: Physical Changes

Every Sunday, Cancer Services publishes a Cancer Q&A in the Health Section of The Baton Rouge Advocate.

Q:
I’ve just completed my final cancer treatment and am wondering what physical changes are normal for survivors?

A: Physical changes after treatment greatly depend on what type of cancer you had, what type of treatment you received and your age during the time of treatment. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) compiled a list of common physical changes and problems that people have post-treatment that include:
  • fatigue
  • memory and concentration problems
  • pain
  • neuropathy
  • lymphedema (swelling)
  • mouth/teeth problems
  • weight changes
  • different eating habits
  • trouble swallowing
  • bladder and/or bowel control problems
  • menopause symptoms
It is also common to worry about cancer recurrence. Almost all cancer survivors are concerned about the possibility that their cancer will come back. It is helpful, when coping with the fear of recurrence, to express your feelings, avoid blaming yourself for your cancer, and focus on what you can control. If you feel your fear may be excessive or simply want to express your feelings to other cancer survivors, Cancer Services offers free counseling services and support groups to anyone diagnosed with cancer.





For more information contact Courtney Britton, librarian at Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge at (225) 927-2273, cbritton@cancerservices.org , or visit the Resource Center at 550 Lobdell Avenue.

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

No Survivor Left Behind


Participants in the one of Cancer Services’ new
Survivorship Events: The Shine a Light on Lung
Cancer Vigil held this past November and sponsored by
The Lung Cancer Alliance.

Every new year brings new resolutions and Cancer Services has made another one for you in 2012. Each month, Cancer Services will be hosting a different survivorship event to celebrate and honor a survivor’s journey. It’s no secret that some cancers get more attention than others. At Cancer Services we want to make sure all our clients feel supported in meaningful and relevant ways.


Starting this past November, Lung Cancer Awareness Month, Cancer Services hosted a special Lung Cancer Survivorship Luncheon to which clients could invite their family and caregivers. We also hosted the Shine a Light on Lung Cancer Vigil, open to the entire community.


Cancer Services will continue similar events in 2012 bringing together various survivor groups in a personalized and meaningful way. Director of Support Programs, Esther Sachse, LCSW explains, “All our clients are important to us and we want to support them any way we can. Survivorship luncheons are a great opportunity for clients to network with others and celebrate the meaningful life one can lead as a survivor.”

According to the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation, a cancer survivor is anyone with a history of cancer, from the moment of diagnosis through their journey. Thus Cancer Services refers to all clients as "survivors.” We are here for you and all 6,000 of our clients as you live with, through and beyond cancer.

For more information on our support groups or any of our support services, call Natalie at 927-2273.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Steve Lousteau for Cancer Services


Steve Lousteau (right) with his children
Jeffrey and Jennifer.
While growing up in south Louisiana, I knew that
cancer was a disease that impacted many people. Because there was no experience of cancer in my own family, I developed a false sense of security that I would go through life not having to deal with such a dreaded illness. That all came to an abrupt halt when my wife’s sister, Lena, was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer in December 2005. In spite of an operation and numerous treatments, our family lost Lena in March of 2007. My family was devastated.



We “picked up the pieces” and began the recovery process of overcoming the loss of someone who was so dear to so many. Then in July 2008 my family was hit with more shocking news…. my wife of 29 years, Amber, was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. Amber fought the good fight but passed away in May 2009. While the physical, emotional, mental and financial stress in fighting this deadly disease is excruciating, the pain that I, and my children, felt after losing someone we so dearly loved is beyond description.

Then more bad news hit my family in November 2010 when I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. My first thought was, I can’t believe this is happening again! Fortunately for me and my family, my situation has a happy ending. Because of early detection and a successful operation, I am pleased to report that I am cancer free and enjoying life again.

So why do I share my story with you? It is because you never know when cancer will strike you, a family member, a friend or a colleague.

The common thread that weaves through each of my own family experiences with cancer is the phenomenal support provided by Cancer Services. This is a great organization that can provide aid in the form of information, financial assistance and resource support. I’m deeply indebted to them for providing me resources to help Amber while she fought for her life.

The life of any organization is dependent on the financial strength of its organization. Cancer Services is no different. Being that Cancer Services is a non-profit organization, it relies on contributions from the generous citizens of our great community to help continue its mission of helping people afflicted with cancer. While I hope and pray that you never need Cancer Services, Cancer Services very much needs YOU! Your gift enables Cancer Services to continue to help cancer patients and their families when they need help most. Visit their website to donate online or by mail to 550 Lobdell Ave. Baton Rouge, LA 70806. Feel free to stop by to see how your gift helps those living with cancer every day.

Thanking you in advance, please make a difference by donating today!

Q&A: Coping with Cancer During the Holidays

Every Sunday, Cancer Services publishes a Cancer Q&A in the Health Section of The Advocate.

Q:
I am battling cancer this holiday season. Do you have any tips to help me deal with the holidays?
A: Coping with holidays when you have cancer can be very difficult. The following are some tips that you may want to try in order to help you cope:

  • set limitations and make realistic goals
  • ask for help
  • don’t hide your emotions – it’s okay to feel overwhelmed
  • consider talking to a counselor
  • plan early so you can be prepared
  • remember that it’s okay to say “no”
  • surround yourself with supportive people
  • continue healthy eating and exercise to help ease stress
  • do not isolate yourself - stay connected to those you love
  • create new tradition, if you feel okay doing so
  • don’t forget to relish moments of joy no matter how bad things might seem
  • go out to eat or have a pot-luck dinner if preparing a meal is too much
  • be picky about what you choose to expend your energy on
  • think about what questions might be asked concerning your cancer and plan how you will answer questions
  • if you are away from family, try and spend time with friends or neighbors

For more information contact Courtney Britton, librarian at Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge at 225-927-2273 or visit the Resource Center at 550 Lobdell Avenue.