Support Groups

Cancer is a complex disease that affects not only the patient but also the family and other caregivers. At Front Range Cancer Specialists, we believe that it is very important to address the psychosocial aspects of a cancer diagnosis. Numerous support groups and financial resources are available for patients and persons affected by cancer in Northern Colorado. We are pleased to recommend the following groups:

"Look Good, Feel Better": A free program offered by the American Cancer Society that teaches beauty techniques to female cancer patients in active treatment to help them combat the appearance-related side effects of treatment. This support group is led by trained, volunteer cosmetologists who teach women how to cope with skin changes and hair loss using cosmetics and skin care products donated by the cosmetic industry. Women also learn ways to disguise hair loss with wigs, scarves, and other accessories. This free support group is held the last Thursday of every month (except November and December) from 3:00-5:00 p.m. in our office. Pre-registration is required. Please call 212-7600 for additional information.

"I Can Cope": This is an 8-week educational program facilitated by Poudre Valley Hospital and The American Cancer Society. Topics are varied and include an overview of cancer, treatment, alternative methods, and symptom management. Featured presenters include physicians, nurse practitioners, social workers, psychologists, nutritionists, oncology nurses, and complementary therapists. All meetings are held at Poudre Valley Hospital. There is no charge for participation. For additional information and registration, call 495-8380.

"Couples Facing Cancer": This is an 8-week series based upon the book, Love is a Journey: Couples Facing Cancer by Dr. Gary Stricklin and Dr. Jan Latona. Services include support groups, day and weekend workshops, presentations, and written materials. For additional information, please visit www.couplesfacingcancer.com or call 970-484-5168.

"Gentle Yoga": A class specially designed for cancer patients. Held every Tuesday at The Other Club, 1227 Riverside Avenue, Fort Collins. Led by Hillary Beck-Gifford, certified personal trainer. Cost: $10/class. Please call Hillary at 484-1724 or 221-4348 to confirm class availability.

"Man to Man": A support and education program for those affected by prostate cancer. The program includes a group support program and support for partners. Meets from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month at the Fort Collins Urology Center, 1500 S. Lemay Avenue. Call (970) 484-6700 for registration and additional information. Free of charge. Provided by American Cancer Society.

"Reach to Recovery": A support group for breast cancer patients. Visits can be face-to-face or by phone. Volunteers are breast cancer survivors who are trained to give support and up-to-date information including literature for spouses, children, friends, and other loved ones. For additional information, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345.

Rocky Mountain Cancer Rehabilitation Institute: A program committed to improving the quality of life for cancer patients through prescriptive exercise rehabilitation. For additional information, visit www.unco.edu/rmci

Financial Resources

Diana Price-Fish Cancer Foundation:

A non-profit organization that pairs adult cancer patients (participants) with volunteers to assist them in identifying and designing enjoyable activities. The Foundation runs two programs designed to allow the participant to take part in one activity per month as long as they have cancer. The Foundations pays for all expenses related to the activity. For additional information, visit their web site at: www.dpfcf.org.

Lydia Dody Foundation: A charitable organization in Larimer County focused on providing breast cancer patients complementary care and lifestyle support for the duration of their treatment. For additional information, visit their web site at: www.lydiasfoundation.org.

The staff at Front Range Cancer Specialists can also assist you with pharmaceutical (drug) assistance programs. Additional financial resources may be found under "Web Resources".