Something very special happens when people facing cancer turn to one another for help. The resulting peer support can have a profound impact on how they feel about themselves and how well they manage their lives during and after cancer. Even those with very supportive families and friends can learn from others who have walked or are walking the cancer journey while, at the same time, be a source of information and inspiration for others. TLC is an opportunity to learn, grow and heal. It is also an opportunity to reach out, to help, and to comfort others.
TLC Offers Support for Body, Mind & Spirit!
Cancer, indeed, is a complex disease of the body and the importance and value of modern medicine is undeniable. For complete healing, however, we should consider all aspects of healthy living for body, mind, heart and spirit. The TLC Supportive Community includes supportive services and activities to support and compliment your treatment plan and assist you in achieving a healthier, happier, and more hopeful lifestyle during and after cancer.
TLC Supportive Newsletter
The TLC Supportive Newsletter is published five times per year and contains informational and inspirational articles written by local cancer survivors and caregivers. Each issue includes a “Survivor Spotlight” column that highlights one local cancer survivor’s experience as well as various articles that offer various perspectives on the cancer experience. We welcome anyone involved in the cancer experience to share what they have learned with others through this newsletter. It is also a good way to stay informed of upcoming local cancer events, activities and resources.
TLC Group Support Sessions
We encourage cancer survivors along with their families, friends, and caregivers to participate in TLC Group Support Sessions that are held three times per month. These casual networking opportunities allow participants a chance to learn from and teach one another the many lessons of the cancer experience. Each session includes a “topical theme or activity” designed to enhance our lives even with cancer. The goal of these sessions is not only to enhance your cancer experience but to enhance your life as well! Participants are encouraged to attend as frequently as they want.
TLC Speaker Series
An extension of our TLC Support Sessions, the Speaker Series offers opportunities for participants to meet with and listen to experts on various topics related to healthy living and cancer survivorship. Speakers come from a variety of backgrounds including cancer survivors, medical heatlh professionals, mental health professionals, complimentary medicine practitioners, and more.
TLC Wellness Walking Group
A regular walking program helps promote a healthier and happier life by promoting: physical fitness, cardiopulmonary fitness and improved mental health. The TLC Wellness Walking Group offers “Walk & Talk” sessions designed to support and encourage you on your personal walking program. We use a variety of “Motivational Tools” including other walkers in the group, an exercise journal or log, an exercise contract, a pedometer, and participation in “The President’s Challenge: Active Lifestyle Program.” These casual walking groups are meant for walkers of all levels. The group meets at various locations throughout the community.
TLC Simple Quiet Time & Labyrinth Walk
Many who survive and thrive through a cancer diagnosis will admit to the important role their spirituality played in their lives during this difficult time. TLC Simple Quiet Time & Labyrinth Walk is one way we encourage cancer survivors and all involved in the cancer experience to tap into their own sense of spirituality for greater strength and healing. One day each month (the first business day) the conference room at Matthews Oncology Associates is transformed into a quiet space that includes a variety of resources (including a 20-foot portable canvas labyrinth) to provide an opportunity to rest your body, quiet your mind, and strengthen your spirit.
TLC for the Fun of It!
TLC offers opportunities for fun and laughter (often the best medicine):
- Annual TLC Spring Break Pot Luck & Bean Bag Toss Competition!
- Annual TLC Summer Lunch & Golf Outing!
- Annual TLC Fall Fun Gathering & Game Night!
- TLC Cancer Survivors Card Club
- National Cancer Survivors Day Celebration
- Involvement in a variety of cancer-related community activities
- And more!
For more information on the TLC Supportive Community Contact:
