'Managing the cancer experience' is a seven week educational programme for people with cancer, their relatives and friends.
It is well understood that when people have knowledge and emotional support they are better able to cope with their situation. With this understanding in mind this course has been developed by people with cancer, their relatives, friends and health carers.
This course has evolved from the 'learning to live with cancer' course which was developed in the USA 15 years ago.
The course will have about 12 participants. There are seven two hour sessions from 2pm - 4pm. People can attend at any stage of their cancer experience and attendance at all the sessions is recommended.
Aims of the course
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to inform people about how to live with and manage the cancer experience;
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to help people to understand what is happening to them;
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to provide support, an opportunity to exchange information and to share experiences with others;
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to help maximise people's coping strategies.
Course content
The course will explore the following themes:
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the human body and cancer;
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the diagnosis and treatment of cancer;
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side effects of treatment and health problems;
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diet and nutrition;
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talking about cancer;
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the role of the family and others as a support system;
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dealing with change and active adjustments to change;
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work and cancer;
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relaxation and expressive art;
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survivorship;
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complementary care and support therapies.
