SPRING
2023
April, May, June
April, May, June
Focus On: Active Treatment
Focus On: Active Treatment
Providing helpful tools, encouragement and support to empower those who are currently in 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.
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 treatment-related 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.
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.
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 reduce stress, so that you can focus on your health and well-being.
Some specially designed programs can help those in active treatment.
• The Benefits of Exercise During Treatment
• Meditation for Better Sleep
• Back to the Basics and Beyond
• Reflexology For You
• You Matter, Too
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 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.
By appointment only
Need help connecting to virtual programs through your personal computer, laptop or tablet? Schedule a virtual or phone consultation for assistance with setting up an email or installing and using the Webex application on your device.
Treatment
Wednesday, April 26 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness
Instructor
Studies show that being active during treatment has many benefits. In this workshop, you will learn to create short-term goals for getting more movement in during the day, ways to stay active, and the physical, mental and emotional benefits of exercise during and after treatment.
Wednesday, May 10 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Audrey Stoppel, BSN, RN, Radiation Oncology
RUSH Copley Medical Center
Hats Off to Survivors
Sunday, June 4 • 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. From classic top hats to casual caps, hats come in all shapes and sizes to reflect a variety of personal styles. This is also true of our survivorship stories; each is unique and reflects who we are. Please join us as we celebrate survivorship with a day of bingo, refreshments and friendship. Wear your favorite headgear that represents you!
Sleep plays a vital role in our everyday health and well-being but, when faced with a cancer diagnosis, anxiety, deep fatigue and more can prevent a good night’s rest. Learn how meditating before bed can increase relaxation and help you sleep better and deeper.
Back to the Basics and Beyond
Wednesday, May 24 • 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Geralyn O’Brien, Licensed and Oncology-Focused Esthetician Cancer treatments can cause many changes to your skin and body. This fun, interactive workshop will teach you non-invasive ways to renew and rejuvenate skin. Learn about acupressure points, the benefits of facial massage, rose quartz and gua sha tools and ways to incorporate them into your skin care routine.
Reflexology For You
Wednesday, June 14 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Rachel Cordova, LMT, Certified Reflexologist
This workshop will focus on the benefits of reflexology. You will learn the core techniques and how to locate acupressure points on the feet and hands to help reduce stress and promote health and well-being. Bring your partner, caregiver or friend and wear comfortable clothing.
Wednesday, June 21 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Daisy Garcia, MSW, LSW Journey Care
As a caregiver, your well-being plays an important role in your ability to provide optimum care. Topics will include compassion, fatigue, boundaries and selfcare techniques. Learn how nature can reduce stress and improve well-being.
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. To ensure a meaningful group experience, at least five participants must attend for the group to meet.
First Wednesdays: April 5, May 3 and June 7 • 6 to 8 p.m.
Affiliated with the International Myeloma Foundation, this group is open to those diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma and their loved ones. To sign up, please contact Valarie Traynham, group leader, at aurora@IMFsupport.org or (630) 423-6510.
Third Mondays: April 17, May 15 and June 19 • 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 support and a safe place to share experiences, successes and ongoing challenges.
Third Mondays: April 17, May 15 and June 19 • 6:30 to 8 p.m.
This group is designed for those who have completed treatment and are looking for support as they transition into life after treatment. The informal group provides a safe place to share experiences, successes, and ongoing challenges for all persons living through and beyond cancer.
Second Wednesdays: April 12, May 10 and June 14 • 6:30 to 8 p.m. 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.
First Thursdays: April 6, May 4 and June 1 • 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Soul Tending and Support is a cancer support group where healing and discovering meaning can be found in one’s cancer experience. Connect with others seeking spirtual support in a safe and confidential environment.
Second Thursdays: April 13, May 11 and June 8 • 1:30 to 3 p.m. Open to those who have had a gynecological cancer diagnosis, Gyne SISTERs is co-facilitated by a licensed social worker and a registered nurse.
Men’s Group
Fourth Tuesdays: April 25, May 23 and June 27 • 6:30 to 8 p.m.
This group is open to men who have had a cancer diagnosis. It is facilitated by a licensed clinical social worker who is also a prostate cancer survivor. A light dinner will be provided.
Oncology-Focused, Short-Term Counseling
By appointment only
Short-term counseling to address cancer-related issues is available to those diagnosed with cancer and their 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
Provided through a partnership with AccentCare
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 can assist in the coping process.
By appointment only
Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Certified Vibrational Sound Therapist
Vibrational sound therapy is a one-on-one service using Himalayan singing bowls gently placed on the body to promote total relaxation and decrease the effects of stress on the body and mind. The tones and vibrations combine to produce an immediate state of tranquility as sound waves act like a massage for the nervous system.
Reiki
By appointment only
Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Reiki Master, and Karen Jendruczek, Reiki Practitioner
This one-on-one service is an energetic relaxation therapy that offers stress reduction, mental clarity, relief of pain, improved sleep and other benefits.
Guided Meditation
Mondays: April 10, May 8 and June 12
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.
Reiki For You
Fridays: June 9 and June 16 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Reiki Master Teacher
Reiki is a holistic healing practice that helps to promote relaxation, alleviate stress and enhance your sense of wellbeing. Learn how to offer Reiki to yourself and loved ones. Upon completion of both classes, you will receive your Level I Reiki
certificate. Lunch will be provided. This program will only be offered if at least six participants register.
Giving Back Society
Fridays: April 21, May 19 and June 16 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Lisa Lapinski
Are you looking for opportunities to pay it forward by helping other cancer patients on the journey? Join the Waterford Place Giving Back Society to brainstorm ideas and participate in activities that make a difference in the cancer community.
Craft and Chat
Wednesdays: April 12, May 10 and June 14
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join us to chat, drink tea or coffee and work on your crafting project. Bring your knitting, crochet, needlepoint, coloring or whatever project you are working on. This informal participant gathering is not led by a facilitator.
Sound Healing Meditation
Monday, June 5 • 6 to 7 p.m.
Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Reiki Master
Experience a deep relaxation and meditation when you attend this sound
healing session. Immerse yourself in healing sounds designed to promote relaxation and balance for both body and mind.
Beaded Plant Stakes
Monday, May 1 • 2 to 3 p.m.
Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Reiki Master Spring is in the air, and what better time to start planning for your garden? Join us for this fun, easy and whimsical class making garden plant stakes so you can identify everything you've planted.
HeartMath Meditation
Audrey Stoppel, BSN, RN, Radiation Oncology
RUSH Copley Medical Center
Thursday, April 20 • 1 to 2 p.m.
Thursday, May 25 • 1 to 2 p.m.
Thursday, June 15 • 1 to 2 p.m.
Discover HeartMath Meditation, a simple, yet powerful, meditative technique that uses heart-focused breathing to improve clarity, harmony of the mind and body, and balance. It can help you shift your emotional state and calm your mind. The same class is offered each month; choose the date that fits your schedule.
Mixed Media Art Class: Rain Puddles
Tuesday, April 25 • 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Barbara Weigand
Caring Arts Foundation
Remember the childlike joy of walking in the rain and jumping in rain puddles? We’ll try to recapture the freedom and joyful glee of those days in paint. No experience required and all materials provided. Just bring your memories and imagination!
Mixed Media Art Class: Flower Abstracts
Tuesday, May 23 • 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Barbara Weigand
Caring Arts Foundation
Apply abstract concepts to painting flowers, using your choice of acrylics or pastels. It’s all about color and shapes, and there’s no way to make a mistake! Materials and inspiration provided.
Mixed Media Art Class: At the Beach
Tuesday, June 27 • 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Barbara Weigand
Caring Arts Foundation
Let the upcoming lazy days of summer inspire you to paint scenes from the beach. Bring a photo that moves you; we’ll provide ideas, too. All materials provided.
Tai Chi/Moving Meditation
Mondays • 9:30 to 10:15 a.m.
Kristi Niedzwiecki, ACE Certified Fitness Instructor
Center yourself as you become aware of your own energy, while relaxing and strengthening your body without injury or strain. Tai chi is an ancient form of meditative exercise that helps to harmonize mind and body. A simplified routine is taught with traditional postures and slow soft movements.
Group Movement: Level 1
Mondays • 12:30 to 1 p.m.
Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor
Designed for those who are newly diagnosed or in active treatment, this class will help you feel better physically, mentally and emotionally. Physical activity can reduce fatigue, increase endurance, boost energy levels and improve mood. With the use of bands, light weights and other props, you will build or rebuild strength and stamina.
Group Movement: Level 2
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. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, this class is a step above in intensity in comparison to the other classes offered at Waterford Place.
Gentle Yoga
Tuesdays • 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Mary Keane, RYT200
Achieve a higher state of mindfulness while building strength and balance. This gentle
Mondays
9:30 to 10:15 a.m. — Tai Chi/ Moving Meditation
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Group Movement: Level 2
12:30 to 1 p.m. — Group Movement: Level 1
Tuesdays
5:30 to 6:30 p.m. — Gentle Yoga
Wednesdays
10 to 10:45 a.m. — Gentle Pilates
11 to 11:45 a.m. — LymphedemaFocused Movement
5 to 6 p.m. — Restorative Yoga
Thursdays
12:30 to 1:15 p.m. — Chair Yoga and Mobility
yoga class will help you manage cancer by tapping into your mind-body connection to improve overall wellness. Modifications are offered so that everyone can participate safely.
Wednesdays • 5 to 6 p.m.
Chitra Singh, Certified Yoga Instructor
Restorative yoga is a gentle, calming, therapeutic yoga that cultivates relaxation and balance and uses props to support the body. Each restorative pose will be held for
five to six minutes to release tension and deepen relaxation.
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.
Wednesdays • 11 to 11:45 a.m.
Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor
This class will address cancer-related lymphedema through gentle movement and stretches for both the upper and lower body. Modifications are offered so that everyone can participate safely. A yoga mat is recommended.
Chair Yoga and Mobility
Thursdays • 12:30 to 1:15 p.m.
Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor
This all-level class includes breathwork, meditation and gentle movement to enhance mobility and strengthen muscles and bones.
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 meal preparation and current diet trends, help you manage treatment-related side effects and choose healthier foods.
No experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided. Caregivers are encouraged to attend with the person living with cancer.
Carly Smitherman, MS, RDN, LDN
If you’re trying to incorporate healthier dishes into your meal rotation and love Italian food, this cooking series of veggiepacked, Italian-inspired dishes is for you! Our instructor will transform traditional Italian dishes into nutrient-dense, plant forward meals filled with health benefits and an abundance of flavor.
Spaghetti and Veggie “Meatballs”
Thursday, April 13 • 6 to 7 p.m. This dish will have you wanting to ditch the meat in meatballs. Learn how to make a vegetarian version that is tender, flavorful and filled with more nutrients than traditional meatballs.
Lentil Bolognese with Zucchini Noodles
Thursday, May 11 • 6 to 7 p.m. We’re swapping out pasta and meat for veggies to add a more complete set of nutrients to your dinner. This recipe will fill your plate with vitamins A and C and other nutrients that can’t be found in spaghetti noodles or meat.
Roasted Garlic and Kale Spaghetti
Squash with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Thursday, June 8 • 6 to 7 p.m. Learn all about spaghetti squash and how to use it in a variety of dishes. Available year-round, spaghetti squash is a great source of vitamins and fiber. Use it to add variety and extra nutrition to your pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
• 2 medium zucchini
Lentil Bolognese:
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 shallot, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 to 3 carrots, finely shredded
• 26 ounces favorite marinara sauce
• Pinch red pepper flake
• 2 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp coconut sugar for sweetness
• 1/2 cup water
• 3/4 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
• Vegan parmesan cheese
Directions:
1. Heat a large, rimmed skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add oil, shallot and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly softened and fragrant. Turn down heat if browning.
2. Add carrots and a pinch of salt and stir. Cook for 3-4 minutes more.
3. Add marinara sauce and stir to coat.
4. Add red pepper flake, basil, oregano, coconut sugar, water and lentils. Increase heat and bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low/medium heat and continue cooking until lentils are tender, stirring occasionally about 17-20 minutes. Add more water if mixture gets thick.
First and Third Wednesdays: April 5 and 19, May 3 and 17, June 7 and 21, July 5 and 19, August 2 and 16, September 6 and 20, October 4 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Join the Garden Club to sow and reap the benefits and joys of growing your own vegetables with other Waterford Place participants. Learn to grow your own food, decrease your stress and build community and support with others. Harvested produce will be available to share with the entire Waterford Place community.
5. Once lentils are cooked, taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt to taste, coconut sugar for sweetness, red pepper flake for heat, or herbs for flavor balance.
6. While the sauce is cooking, spiralize your zucchini into noodles or use pasta.
7. Combine noodles and sauce.
Simply Beautiful Skin
Friday, April 14 • 10 a.m. to Noon
Friday, May 12 • 10 a.m. to Noon
Friday, June 9 • 10 a.m. to Noon
Geralyn O’Brien, Licensed and Oncology-Focused Esthetician
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 17 • 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Monday, May 15 • 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Monday, June 19 • 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Jenny Burns, Licensed Cosmetologist and Medical Hair Loss Expert
Karen Wake, Esthetician
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 different schedules.
Revitalize your Eyes and Soul
Monday, April 24 • 6 to 7:30 p.m..
Geralyn O’Brien, Licensed and Oncology-Focused Esthetician
Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Certified Vibrational Sound Therapist
They say the eyes are the window to the soul, and both can be affected during cancer treatment. Eyes may become dry, watery or puffy and you may lose lashes and eyebrows. Spend the evening reviving your eyes and energizing your soul as you learn to care for the skin around your eyes and listen to the healing sounds of Himalayan singing bowls.
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.
By appointment only
Michelle Haugen, LMT, CLT Rachel Cordova, LMT Oncology massage combines compassion and specialized massage treatments to decrease treatment-related side effects, reduce stress and pain, and improve perceived quality of life.
By appointment only
Geralyn O'Brien and Kate Romano, Licensed and Oncology-Focused Estheticians
Individual consultations are available to 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.
By appointment only
Geralyn O'Brien and Kate Romano, Licensed and Oncology-Focused Estheticians
Cancer treatments may leave the skin dry, sensitive and lacking proper nutrients, 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.
By appointment only
Rachel Cordova, 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.
At Waterford Place Cancer Resource Center, the members of the gardening club enjoy the fruits — and vegetables — of their labor.
Last year, they harvested tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, lettuce, spinach, herbs, brussels sprouts, radishes, potatoes, onion, beets and zucchini.
Despite poor planting weather and critters eating the vegetables, Waterford Place participant and gardener Julie Gilbert says, “The garden turned out pretty well, and I’ve really enjoyed it.”
Stormy weather in the spring forced them to cancel several preparation and planting meetings, giving their growing season a late start.
“The weather was not conducive to planting,” recalls Cheri Tuymer, a Waterford Place participant and gardener.
“The weather was horrible!” Julie agrees. But the small group — Julie, Cheri and participant Mary Peach — persevered, planting the garden in raised beds donated several years ago. They were excited to see what would grow.
Because the group was small, Mary recruited her husband, Les, to help, especially with tasks that required more strength than she had. He helped plant, weed and water.
The group divided up watering duties so they each were responsible for one watering a week. Once or twice a month, they all got together, including for a garden party — a dinner that featured
vegetables grown in their garden.
“We took the peppers, squash, herbs and lettuce, and each of us made a dish,” Mary explained. They enjoyed quinoa salad and lettuce salad, and Julie made omelets with the peppers. Les made fried peppers.
“It was wonderful,” says Cheri. In addition to the gardening club, she participates in a variety of other activities, from the Giving Back Society to the Gyne SISTERs support group to art and exercise classes. “I love Waterford Place,” she says. “It’s my second home.”
Mary has been a participant at the center since 2016, but this was her first experience in the gardening club. While many of the programs she has participated in have been helpful to her, she felt this was a
chance to give to others since the vegetables are shared with other participants.
“It is an opportunity for other participants to enjoy the fruits of our labor,” she says. It also allowed her to get to know some participants she hadn’t met previously. But for Julie, the gardening itself may have been the biggest draw.
“There’s such a healing about planting and watching things grow,” she says. “Gardening teaches you to be calm and patient. It calmed my spirit and helped me feel closer to creation. It’s a wonderful experience.”
Interested in joining the Gardening Club? See page 7 for meeting dates and more information.
Monday and Friday • 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Closed May 29 for Memorial Day.
Phone: (331) 301-5280
Email: info@waterfordcrc.com
waterfordcrc.com
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Call (331) 301-5280 to schedule a virtual individualized consultation and orientation, available in English or Spanish. Next, please complete a Participant Information form available online at waterfordcrc.com. Registration is required for all programs. How to register:
• Online at waterfordcrc.com
• Call (331) 301-5280
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.