This week, Bobbi Conner talks with Paul Myers about participating in a cancer support group. Paul is a licensed clinical social worker who leads the social work team at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center.
TRANSCRIPT:
Conner: I'm Bobbi Conner for South Carolina Public Radio with Health Focus here at the radio studio for the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. Studies show that people with cancer who have social and resource support are less distressed and have a better overall quality of life. Paul Myers is here to talk about participating in a cancer support group as one way of connecting with other cancer patients and survivors for support. Paul is a licensed clinical social worker who leads the social work team at Hollings Cancer Center at MUSC. Paul, from your perspective, what are some of the possible benefits that cancer patients and survivors might gain from participating in a cancer support group?
Paul Myers: One of the biggest benefits is simply knowing that you're not alone. Cancer can be a very isolating experience, and with a support group, you're with people who have a shared experience, and there can be a real sense of connection and understanding. There are so many different things that come up, and they can change depending on where someone is in their cancer journey. There's an emotional benefit because it gives people a safe place to talk and share their feelings and experiences. One thing I really value about support groups is that participants can bring up questions and emotions in a place where other people can say, I've felt that too. And sometimes just knowing that what you're experiencing is normal can be very reassuring. Support groups are also a great place to share practical information, so things like managing treatment side effects, adjusting to life changes, and navigating resources.
Conner: Tell us about the cancer support groups that exist and what individuals might find in South Carolina in the way of support groups for cancer survivors.
Paul Myers: There's actually a pretty wide variety of cancer support groups available, and that's important because there isn't a one size fits all approach. Some groups are open to anyone affected by cancer, while others focus on a particular type of cancer. So, such as breast cancer, lung cancer, blood cancer. There are also groups specifically for caregivers and family members, and even for patients who are past treatment and into survivorship.
Conner: Well, tell us about the cancer support groups that you lead and what the structure or agenda is like for each meeting.
Paul Myers: Well, one group that I facilitate is a virtual support group for blood cancer patients and their caregivers. We meet monthly for about an hour. It's usually a small group, which gives people an opportunity to talk and connect with one another. We don't have a formal presentation or speaker each month. The focus is really on what the participants need at that particular time. Occasionally, we'll have an educational component or bring in someone with a particular expertise when there's a topic that would be helpful for the group. But, I don't want the group to feel like a class or a lecture, but more of a safe, supportive space where people can talk about whatever is important to them that day.
Conner: How can someone find a support group in their area?
Paul Myers: So, there are several good places to start. I would recommend starting with your treatment team. Nurse navigators, social workers patient coordinators are usually very informed about resources that are in their community. The American Cancer Society is another excellent resource. They have a 24 hour helpline, and you can also access information on their website online. I would also encourage patients to look at organizations for their specific type of cancer, because there may be a virtual group that they could join.
Conner: Paul, thanks for talking with us about participating in a cancer support group.
Paul Myers: Thank you so much for having me, Bobbi.
Conner: From the radio studio for the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, I'm Bobbi Conner for South Carolina Public Radio.
Health Focus transcripts are intended to accurately represent the original audio version of the program; however, some discrepancies or inaccuracies may exist. The audio format serves as the official record of Health Focus programming.
