SPRING 2022 April • May • June
Cancer Resource Center
PROGRAM GUIDE Programs for Individuals Affected by a Cancer Diagnosis
Focus On: Active Treatment Providing helpful tools, encouragement and support to empower those who are in active treatment
TA BL E O F CONTE NT S 1
Active Treatment
2
Educational Presentations
3
Support Programs
4
Mind, Body and Spirit Programs
5
Wellness Programs
6
Salon and Spa Programs
1310 Waterford Drive Aurora, IL 60504 (331) 301-5280 waterfordcrc.com Hours: Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed May 30 for Memorial Day Waterford Place Cancer Resource Center provides services and support, free of charge, to anyone affected by a cancer diagnosis.
ACTIVE TREATMENT Treatment for cancer is complex, and managing all the different aspects of treatment can be stressful. To help with this, Waterford Place offers programs and services that provide helpful tools, encouragement and support to empower those in active treatment to successfully cope with these concerns.
Managing Side Effects Side effects caused by cancer and cancer treatment can affect you physically, mentally and emotionally. Perhaps you are having trouble remembering things (known as “chemo-brain”) or feel more fatigued than usual. These experiences are normal; relieving these side effects is an important part of your cancer care. As you go through treatment, it may be helpful to track your symptoms and share them with your health care team so they can best manage them. Organizations, such as the American Cancer Society and Cancer.net, have useful tools to track this information. The use of complementary therapies during treatment can also be helpful. Therapies that reduce pain and help you cope with treatmentrelated side effects include meditation, reflexology, massage and yoga. Talk with your health care team before starting any therapies to make sure you are safely combining the therapies that are right for you. Coping with Self-Image and Uncertainty The side effects of cancer treatment can change how you feel about your appearance. It is normal to develop anxiety around the uncertainty of what to expect. You may experience positive and negative changes to your self-image. During this time, it's important to remember to be kind to yourself and allow time to grieve physical losses and adjust to your new body. A few ways to cope are by attending support groups, journaling to record your thoughts and feelings, trying relaxation techniques (meditation, yoga, deep breathing), remaining active and engaging in social activities. You can also discuss possible
reconstructive surgery, prosthetic devices and cosmetic solutions. Don't be afraid to talk with your family, loved ones and health care team about your concerns. Open communication will help them know how to best support you. Financing Treatment No matter how secure you feel financially, cancer treatment is expensive and presents a major financial challenge. Understanding your costs upfront is important to help identify the resources you may need to avoid financial toxicity (distress). Many national and local organizations offer financial assistance for general living expenses, housing, medical bills and medications to help ease the financial burden. Some are based on your cancer
type, where you live or other demographics. Speak with your oncology social worker or health care provider for referrals to support services and financial resources. Coping with daily financial responsibilities may feel overwhelming but creating a financial plan can help to reduce stress, so that you can focus on your health and well-being. Some specially designed programs that can help those in active treatment are on page two. • Lymphedema Management • Managing Cancer-Related Peripheral Neuropathy • Introduction to Medical Cannabis • Nausea Management During Cancer Treatment
Spring 2022
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EDU CAT IO NAL P R E S E N TAT I O NS Personalized Financial Resource Consultation By appointment only Cancer not only affects your physical health, it also affects your financial well-being. Several resources are available to help you manage the financial impact of cancer, including federally-funded programs and private nonprofit organizations. Schedule a virtual meeting with a financial navigator to learn what financial resources are available to you. Welcome to Waterford Place Orientation By appointment only All new participants are invited to attend an introductory orientation to discover the valuable resources available at Waterford Place.
support. Learn how you can support
presentation will help you understand the
someone experiencing cancer.
basics of genetic testing and focus on hereditary breast and ovarian cancer
Technology Consultation
Chemo Brain: It’s Not All in Your Head
By appointment only
Thursday, May 5 • 1 to 2 p.m.
Need help connecting to virtual programs
Elizabeth Bandera, MA, CCC-SLP
through your personal computer, laptop
Managing Cancer-Related
Rush Copley Medical Center
or tablet? Schedule a virtual or phone
Peripheral Neuropathy
Find out how chemotherapy can affect
consultation for assistance with setting up
Tuesday, June 7 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
attention, memory and concentration
an email or installing and using the Webex
Lou Velasco, PT
during and after treatment. This
application on your device.
Rush Copley Medical Center
presentation will provide practical tips
Join us for a discussion on symptoms of
and resources on how to cope with
cancer-related peripheral neuropathy and
chemo brain.
how it affects balance, daily activities and
Lymphedema Management Wednesday, April 20 • 1 to 2 p.m.
syndrome and Lynch syndrome.
functional mobility. Learn how to prevent
Julienne Kwait, MPT, CLT
Nausea Management
Rush Copley Medical Center
During Cancer Treatment
Learn about lymphedema — its causes,
Wednesday, May 11 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Introduction to Medical Cannabis
effects and how to prevent it. This
Audrey Stoppel, BSN, RN, Radiation
presentation will discuss available
Wednesday, June 15 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Oncology
treatments and how to return to
Rick Niksic, Community Outreach
Rush Copley Medical Center
exercise safely.
Coordinator, Curaleaf
Learn about conventional and
Learn about the medical cannabis
complementary therapies to help manage
program in Illinois, including the science
nausea during cancer treatment.
behind cannabis as a safe alternative to
Lynn Vazquez, Licensed Social Worker
Genetic Testing
many prescription medicines, the
Rush Copley Medical Center
Wednesday, May 18 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Helping a family member or friend
Oleaha Pilant, MSN, RN, APN,
going through cancer treatment may
FNP-C, CGRA
mean accompanying them to the doctor,
Rush Copley Medical Center
making meals, coordinating services and
Hereditary cancer genetic testing is an
care, or giving emotional and spiritual
emerging field in oncology practice. This
Supporting a Partner During Treatment Thursday, April 21 • 6 to 7 p.m.
2
Spring 2022
falls and worsening of symptoms.
misconceptions about cannabis in general and the role of cannabinoids in relieving symptoms associated with traditional cancer treatments. The application for a medical cannabis card will also be covered.
S U PPO RT P R O GR AM S Our groups allow participants to connect with others experiencing similar circumstances. Goals are to exchange information and strategies for decision-making, help navigate the cancer journey and allow participants to connect, share and exchange support. Aurora Multiple Myeloma
West Suburban Brain Tumor
Networking Group (Virtual Only)
Support Group (Virtual Only)
First Wednesdays: April 6, May 4 and
First and Third Tuesdays: April 5 and 19,
June 1 • 6 to 8 p.m.
May 3 and 17, and June 7 and 21
Affiliated with the International Myeloma
4 to 4:30 p.m.
Foundation, this group is open to those
This group provides you, your family
diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma and
and friends with information about brain
their loved ones. To sign up, please
tumors and treatments, available
contact Valarie Traynham, group leader, at
resources, and the opportunity to meet
aurora@IMFsupport.org or (630) 423-6510.
other people in similar circumstances. This group is facilitated by a nursing
Bereavement Support Group
specialist in the neuroscience services
First and Third Thursdays: April 7 and 21,
and a hospital chaplain. Contact
May 5 and 19, and June 2 and 16 1 to 2:30 p.m. Led by a licensed clinical social worker, the Bereavement Support Group is open to any adult who has lost a loved one to cancer. It provides a safe environment in which to process your grief. This group will begin once five participants have registered. Breast FRIENDs (First Resource in Experiencing and Navigating a Diagnosis) Third Mondays: April 18, May 16 and June 20 • 6 to 7:30 p.m. Facilitated by a licensed social worker and breast health navigator, Breast FRIENDs is for anyone experiencing a breast cancer diagnosis, regardless of treatment type or stage. This informal group provides
Deb Brunelle at (630) 898-4637 Gyne SISTERs (Sharing Inspiration and Resources)
COUNSELING
Second Thursdays: April 14, May 12 and
Oncology-Focused,
June 9 • 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Short-Term Counseling
Open to those who have had a
By appointment only
gynecological cancer diagnosis, Gyne SISTERs is co-facilitated by a licensed social worker and a registered nurse. Men’s Group Fourth Tuesdays: April 26, May 24 and June 28 • 6:30 to 8 p.m. This group is open to men who have had a cancer diagnosis. It is facilitated by a
In this group, family, friends and caregivers of cancer patients will receive support for themselves and network with others in similar circumstances. The group is facilitated by a licensed social worker.
families. Up to five sessions are provided to address sadness, worries, communication, returning to work, body esteem and other similar issues as they relate to a cancer diagnosis.
By appointment only
be provided.
Provided through a partnership with
Cancer) Support Group
and June 8 • 6:30 to 8 p.m.
those diagnosed with cancer and their
prostate cancer survivor. A light dinner will
ences, successes and ongoing challenges.
Second Wednesdays: April 13, May 11
cancer-related issues is available to
Grief Counseling
TLC (Together Living with
Networking Group
Short-term counseling to address
licensed clinical social worker who is also a
support and a safe place to share experi-
Family and Caregiver
to register.
and Support Through Education
Second and Fourth Tuesdays: April 12 and 26, May 10 and 24, and June 14 and 28 • 10 to 11:30 a.m. The TLC Support Group is for those living with an advanced or metastatic cancer diagnosis. Facilitated by a licensed clinical social worker, this group
Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care of Illinois For many, the grief experience that results from the death of a loved one can generate a myriad of feelings, confusion and questions. Talking with a bereavement specialist one-on-one about this experience can assist in the coping process.
will begin once five participants have registered.
Spring 2022
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M IN D, B O DY AND S P I R I T P R O GR AMS Vibrational Sound Therapy
Giving Back Society
By appointment only
Fridays: April 15, May 20 and June 17
Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Certified
10 to 11:30 a.m.
Vibrational Sound Therapist
Lisa Lapinski
Vibrational sound therapy is a one-on-one
Are you looking for opportunities to pay it
service using Himalayan singing bowls
forward by helping other cancer patients on
gently placed on the body to promote
the journey? Join the Waterford Place
total relaxation and decrease the effects of
Giving Back Society to brainstorm ideas
stress on the body and mind. The tones
and participate in activities that make a
and vibrations combine to produce an
difference in the cancer community.
immediate state of tranquility as sound waves act like a massage for the nervous system.
Rainy Day Windows Tuesday, April 26 • 1:30 to 3 p.m. Barbara Weigand Caring Arts Foundation Nothing says April like a rainy day. Capture the sense of looking through a window streaked with rain using pastels.
Craft and Chat Wednesdays: April 13, May 11 and June 8 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Reiki
Join us for an informal gathering to chat,
By appointment only
drink tea or coffee and work on your crafting
Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Reiki Master, and
project. Bring whatever project you are
Karen Jendruczek, Reiki Practitioner
working on, such as knitting, crochet,
This one-on-one service is an energetic
needlepoint, coloring or any other project.
relaxation therapy that offers stress
This is an informal participant gathering
reduction, mental clarity, relief of pain,
not led by a facilitator.
improved sleep and other benefits.
Mixed Media Art Class:
Chakra Feng Shui Suncatcher Tuesday, May 10 • 1 to 2 p.m. Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Reiki Master Create your own crystal ball chakra feng shui suncatcher. Crystal feng shui balls are said to bring good luck, cleanse a space of negative energy and draw positive energy into the room. When hung in a window, crystal can bring good energy from the outside in. HeartMath Meditation
Guided Meditation Wednesdays: April 6, May 4 and June 1 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Audrey Stoppel, BSN, RN, Radiation Oncology Rush Copley Medical Center This guided imagery experience incorporates cleansing breathwork and an array of relaxation techniques designed to balance emotions, decrease physical and psychological distress, and promote the practice of living in the moment.
Audrey Stoppel, BSN, RN, Radiation Oncology
Spring 2022
Floral Impressions Tuesday, May 24 • 1:30 to 3 p.m. Barbara Weigand Caring Arts Foundation Magnolia, peonies, daffodils, crocus, tulips — capture a spring flower or bud in a simple vignette to save as a remembrance or give as a gift. Or pair it with next month’s project to hang on
Rush Copley Medical Center
your wall.
Thursday, April 21 • 1 to 2 p.m.
Mixed Media Art Class:
Thursday, May 19 • 1 to 2 p.m. Thursday, June 16 • 1 to 2 p.m. HeartMath Meditation is a simple, yet powerful, meditative technique that uses heart-focused breathing to help bring you more clarity, harmony of the mind and body, and balance. This technique will help you shift your emotional state and calm your mind. The same class is offered each month to accommodate different schedules.
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Mixed Media Art Class: Spring
Sound of Summer Tuesday, June 28 • 1:30 to 3 p.m. Barbara Weigand Caring Arts Foundation The cheery sound of songbirds is summer’s symphony. Create a little songbird vignette to pair with last month’s flower project. They’ll be lovely matted, framed and hanging together.
W EL L NE S S P R O GR AMS No experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided. Caregivers are encouraged to attend with the person living with cancer. Tai Chi/Moving Meditation Kristi Niedzwiecki, ACE Certified
WEEKLY VIRTUAL MOVEMENT PROGRAMS
Fitness Instructor
Mondays
Mondays • 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Center yourself as you become aware of your
9:30 to 10:30 a.m. — Tai Chi/
own energy, while relaxing and strengthening
Moving Meditation
your body without injury or strain. Tai chi is an
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. —
ancient form of meditative exercise that helps
Group Movement: Level 2
to harmonize mind and body. A simplified
No classes on May 30
routine is taught with traditional postures and
Tuesdays
slow soft movements.
5:30 to 6:30 p.m. — Gentle Yoga
Group Movement: Level 2
Wednesdays
Mondays • 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor Designed for those who have completed treatment, this class offers a mix of exercise, yoga and Pilates to help you gain or regain strength, mobility and endurance.
10 to 10:45 a.m. — Gentle Pilates 11 to 11:45 a.m. — LymphedemaFocused Movement 5 to 6 p.m — Restorative Yoga Thursdays 11:30 to 12:15 p.m. — Group Movement: Level 1
Compared to other classes at Waterford Place, this class is a step above in intensity. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, this class will help you establish a regular exercise routine.
yoga class will help you manage cancer by tapping into your mind-body connection to improve wellness. Modifications are offered so everyone can participate safely. Gentle Pilates Wednesdays • 10 to 10:45 a.m. Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor Low-impact Pilates is a series of exercises that develop the body’s strength, flexibility and control.
Nutrition Consultations By appointment only Michelle Cordes, MS, RD, LDN Rush Copley Medical Center Nutrition consultations are available for anyone diagnosed with cancer at any stage of diagnosis. Our registered dietitian will discuss basic meal preparation and current diet trends and help you manage treatment-related side effects and choose healthier foods. The Healing Kitchen: Garden Vegetable Chickpea Sandwich and Vegan ‘Tuna’ Sandwich Thursday, April 14 • 6 to 7 p.m. You are invited to a hands-on cooking demonstration featuring plant-based,
and stretches for both the upper and lower
protein-powered lunch sandwiches.
body. Modifications are offered so that mat is recommended.
building strength and balance. This gentle
build or rebuild strength and stamina.
lymphedema through gentle movement
Tuesdays • 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Achieve a higher state of mindfulness while
weights and other props, you will gradually
This class will address cancer-related
everyone can participate safely. A yoga
Yoga Instructor
improve mood. With the use of bands, light
Carly Smitherman, MS, RDN, LDN
Gentle Yoga Mary Keane, RYT200, Certified
increase endurance, boost energy levels and
Restorative Yoga
The Healing Kitchen: Sweet Potato Black Bean Tacos with Guacamole Thursday, May 12 • 6 to 7 p.m. Carly Smitherman, MS, RDN, LDN
Wednesdays • 5 to 6 p.m.
Taco Night
Chitra Singh, Certified Yoga Instructor
will never be
Restorative yoga is a gentle, calming,
the same
therapeutic yoga that cultivates relaxation
when you
and balance and uses props to support the
learn how
body. Each restorative pose will be held for
to make
five to six minutes to release tension and
delicious sweet potato black bean tacos
deepen relaxation.
with guacamole.
Group Movement: Level 1
The Healing Kitchen: Vegan Ceviche
Thursdays • 11:30 to 12:15 p.m.
and Strawberry Pineapple Salsa
Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer
Thursday, June 9 • 6 to 7 p.m.
Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor Designed for those who are newly
Lymphedema-Focused Movement
diagnosed with cancer or in active
Wednesdays • 11 to 11:45 a.m.
treatment, this class will help you feel better
Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer
physically, mentally and emotionally.
Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor
Physical activity can reduce fatigue,
Carly Smitherman, MS, RDN, LDN Join us for a hands-on cooking demonstration featuring refreshing summer appetizers that the whole family will love. Learn how to make two delicious and nutritious fruit-forward recipes.
Spring 2022
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S A L O N A N D S PA P R O GR AM S Simply Beautiful Skin
create a gentle foot soak and sugar scrub
Oncology Facials
Friday, April 8 • 10 to 11:30 a.m.
and receive a kit with pampering items.
By appointment only
Friday, May 13 • 10 to 11:30 a.m.
The night includes a sound healing
Geralyn O'Brien and Kate Romano, Licensed
Friday, June 10 • 10 to 11:30 a.m.
meditation. Please let us know of any
and Oncology-Focused Estheticians
Geralyn O’Brien, Licensed and
allergies or sensitivities to ingredients
Cancer treatments may leave the skin
Oncology-Focused Esthetician
in advance.
dry, sensitive and lacking proper nutrients,
Developed to help you manage skin changes during cancer treatment, this class will demonstrate how to implement a skin care regimen with safe products and enhance your natural beauty using the timeless principle of simplicity. The same class is offered each month to accommodate different schedules. Simply Beautiful Hair Monday, April 18 • 2 to 3 p.m. Monday, May 16 • 2 to 3 p.m. Monday, June 20 • 2 to 3 p.m. Jenny Burns, Licensed Cosmetologist and Medical Hair Loss Expert If you need help managing hair changes related to cancer treatment, this class is for you. Topics to be covered include initial hair loss, wigs and head coverings, hair regrowth and safe products that can help with achieving your hair care goals. The class is offered each month to accommodate
Waterford Place Wig Boutique and Salon By appointment only Salon services are available for those experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatments. Services include addressing treatment-related hair changes, customizable complimentary wigs, wig care, options for head coverings, and assistance with styling hair as it grows back. Oncology Massage By appointment only Michelle Haugen, LMT, CLT Oncology massage combines compassion and specialized massage treatments to decrease treatment-related side effects, reduce stress and pain, and improve perceived quality of life. Oncology Skin Care Consultations By appointment only Geralyn O'Brien and Kate Romano,
different schedules.
Licensed and Oncology-Focused
Glow from Head to Toe
Individual consultations are available to
Wednesday, April 13 • 6 to 7:30 p.m. Geralyn O’Brien, Licensed and OncologyFocused Esthetician Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Certified Vibrational Sound Therapist Spend a relaxing evening pampering yourself from head to toe! Participants will
Estheticians help you manage skin changes due to cancer treatment. Services include a comprehensive review of products and cosmetics, recommendations for oncology-safe products, and addressing skin-related issues.
and traditional skin care methods and products can sometimes do more harm than good. When skin is compromised, it needs products that are safe and gentle to bring it back to health. Geralyn or Kate will assess your skin care needs and provide appropriate treatment to help restore and maintain healthy skin. UZIT (Urban Zen Integrative Therapy) Customized Comfort Session By appointment only Pam Riley-Valesh, RN, Certified Clinical Aromatherapist, Reflexologist, Healing Touch Spiritual Ministry Practitioner Urban Zen Integrative Therapy uses a variety of complementary therapy modalities that include breathwork, body awareness meditation, restorative poses, Reiki and essential oils to help ease discomfort. Schedule an appointment to learn how small things can help you to feel better in a big way. Reflexology By appointment only Pam Riley-Valesh, RN, Certified Reflexologist The practice of reflexology involves massaging or applying pressure to various acupressure points on the foot to reduce stress and support overall health.
Waterford Place is located at 1310 Waterford Drive • Aurora, IL 60504 Online at waterfordcrc.com Call (331) 301-5280 For more virtual programming, view and subscribe to Waterford Place’s YouTube channel.