Group will assist cancer supporters

By: centraljersey.com
The YWCA Princeton Breast Cancer Resource Center (BCRC) hopes to let breast cancer supporters know that they are not alone, with a newly formed support group called Supporting the Supporters. The group had its first meeting on March 7 and will continue to meet on the first Monday of each month, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the YWCA Princeton’s Bramwell House.
Group members have the opportunity to connect with other supporters who have similar questions, concerns, hopes and fears as they endeavor to help their loved one cope with all stages of the breast cancer journey.
"Participants have the opportunity to share tips and tools for providing support; to understand and learn to cope with common feelings of fear, frustration, and helplessness; and perhaps most importantly, learn to take care of themselves during this stressful time," said Kara Stephenson, the center’s director.
The group’s facilitator, Elsje Reiss, LCSW, said that the most common questions supporters have are: "What can I do to help?" and "What do I say, when, and how?" She also said that supporters often just need a place to air their thoughts and feelings without the concern of burdening the person who is coping with the breast cancer.
Anyone who wants to to join the Supporting the Supporters group, or wants more information, should call BCRC at (609) 497-2100 ext. 349 or send e-mail to [email protected]. For more information about BCRC and its programs and services for women and families visit www.ywcaprinceton.org/bcrc.