Cancer affects not only the person diagnosed, but also their family, friends, and community. Support through a difficult time in one’s life is necessary because it shows the person that they are not alone in their journey. The support programs at Ackerman Cancer Center provide education, comfort, and emotional support to those living with, or affected by, cancer. Our Oncology Social Workers develop and lead these dynamic groups to meet the individual needs of our patients. The support programs are open to patients, past and current, as well as the surrounding communities.
We welcome all to come to Ackerman Cancer Center and participate in weekly support groups. We are proud to have five amazing and well-rounded support groups to support those in our community during their cancer journey.
1. P.O.W.E.R. – Passionate & Outstanding Women Embracing Resiliency
POWER is a unique program offering women the opportunity to support each other throughout their cancer journey. Whether newly diagnosed or a cancer survivor for many years, POWER encourages women with all types of cancer to participate in shared experiences with each other through fun activities offered throughout Jacksonville.
2. Juntos Contra el Cáncer (Together Against Cancer)
Grupo de apoyo gratuito para pacientes y sobrevivientes de cáncer en la comunidad hispana de Jacksonville.
Free support group for cancer patients and survivors in the Hispanic community of Jacksonville.
This support program meets the first Monday of every month at the Jacksonville location.
3. SPOHNC – Support for People with Oral Head and Neck Cancer
SPOHNC is a support program dedicated to meeting the emotional, physical, and humanistic needs to oral, head, and neck cancer patients.
This support program meets every third Tuesday of the month in the Jacksonville office.
4. Living with Lung Cancer
Living with Lung Cancer is a program offering support, education, and hope to lung cancer patients and their caregivers in Northeast Florida.
This support program meets every second Monday of the month in the Jacksonville office.
5. Men Helping Men
Men Helping Men is an educational support program developed to help men make informed decisions throughout their prostate cancer journey. This program is now available in both Jacksonville and Northeast Florida locations.
The Northeast Florida office meets every second Thursday of the month and the Jacksonville office meets every fourth Monday of the month.
6. Lifestyle Beyond Cancer
Lifestyle Beyond Cancer is an integrative and oncology wellness program that offers educational classes and individual appointments with Todd Robinson of the Wellness Working Group. The focus of this group is to provide education on staying healthy before, during, and after cancer treatments.
7. Counseling Services for Cancer Patients
Dr. Paul Clark, PhD provides therapeutic support services to our cancer patients and leads our Living with Lung Cancer group.
The BEAM Team
The BEAM (Bravely Educating and Mentoring) Team is a group of cancer survivors available to speak with anyone regarding their cancer journey. It was a support program developed by Ackerman Cancer Center in efforts to provide a way for current patients to speak with past patients about their time and journey at Ackerman Cancer Center. The BEAM Team is also actively involved in our various community events.
First Coast Cancer Foundation
First Coast Cancer Foundation was established to improve the quality of life for those touched by cancer. Some of the services of the Foundation include financial assistance, educational programs, and counseling.
If you would like to make a difference in a cancer patient’s life, please visit www.firstcoastcancerfoundation.org.
Additional Cancer Resources
Not only does Ackerman Cancer Center offer amazing support programs, but we also have access to various resources in the surrounding areas. Some of those resources include:
·The American Cancer Society
·The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
·Live For Today
·Bosom Buddies
·The Donna Foundation
If you would like more information about all the support programs and resources offered at Ackerman Cancer Center, please call 904-880-5522 to speak with one of our Oncology Social Workers.