Our News

February Cancer Awareness

(February 04, 2022)

February is Gallbladder and Bile Duct Cancer Awareness Month.
Learn more about diagnosis, stages, and treatment of bile duct cancer.

Although bile duct cancer is uncommon, there are universal experiences of living with cancer. Our weekly support groups offer people with a cancer diagnosis an opportunity to share thoughts, feelings, and information. These groups focus on:
1. Unwanted aloneness
2. Loss of control
3. Living with uncertainty
4. Shifting sense of hope

Together, group participants gain peace during uncertainty; connection during times of loneliness; and inspiration when hope seems lost. For more information and to schedule an appointment call us at 314-238-2000.
Need help after CSC St. Louis closes? To speak to a licensed counselor who can answer your questions and provide you with more resources on gallbladder and bile duct cancer or any type of cancer, call the Cancer Support Helpline at 888-793-9355.

February 4 is World Cancer Day!

Join us and others around the world as we strive to save lives and educate on the importance of early screening! Regular screenings can lead to early detection of cancer. While visiting your doctor regularly does not prevent cancer, it can lower your risk of an advanced diagnosis.

Help us raise awareness of the patient experience and ways to ensure equal access to treatment for everyone. Wondering what you can do to help “Close the Care Gap?” Click here to find out.

February is Black History Month

African Americans have a higher cancer burden and face greater obstacles to cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and survival. Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis is working hard to address cancer disparities in the Black community. Join us for Cancer Risk in African Americans on Wednesday, February 23 from 6:30–7:30 PM. This special program is for patients, caregivers, survivors, and health care professionals. It focuses on understanding cancer risk among African Americans. Presenter Dr. Lanis Hall, MD, MPH, and CSC facilitator, Karen Banks, M.Ed., LPC, explain risk, screening tips, causes of risk, and prevention measures.

January Cancer Awareness!

(January 04, 2022)

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.
Now is a great time to learn about HPV and schedule a screening.

It is estimated that nearly 14,480 women in the Unites States will be diagnosed with cervical cancer this year. Half of these cases occur in women ages 35-44. Cervical cancer, commonly cause by the human papillomavirus (HPV), is often preventable with regular preventative screenings.

Learn more about diagnosis, stages, and treatment of cervical cancer.

Cancer Support Community offers a gynecological cancers monthly group the third Monday of each month from 6:30PM-8:00PM. This group discusses nutrition, coping skills, fear of recurrence, intimacy challenges, and genetic concerns. For more information or support call us at 314-238-2000.

Join Amy Camie, therapeutic harpist and 2-time breast cancer thriver, on a playful journey of self-discovery. Come relax to healing harp music, travel inside with gentle meditations, and remember those hidden love notes only you can express. Remember Your Hidden Love Notes will be on February 7 at 6:30 PM.

Create your own private website to find hope, regain control, document your journey, and receive social, emotional, and practical support from friends and family through MyLifeLine. Through the MyLifeLine discussion board, you can connect with others like you and share your unique cancer experiences and offer insights, coping strategies and inspiration.

Need help now? To speak to a licensed counselor who can answer your questions and provide you with more resources on cervical cancer or any type of cancer, call the Cancer Support Helpline at 888-793-9355.

2021 Incoming Board Chair: Peggy Scott

(January 01, 2021)

Photo credit: Alexandria Mooney Photography

2021 begins with a very special welcome to our new Board Chair, Peggy Scott, who brings almost 40 years of experience in business and human resource management plus leadership development.

Cancer Support Community tapped Peggy for its board leadership role as soon as she retired from Peabody Energy as Vice President Corporate Human Resources and Organizational Effectiveness. What a wonderful fit for our organization! Peggy has a special connection to Cancer Support Community having lost her husband eight years ago to cancer; she and her children personally understand the value that CSC provides to those impacted by cancer and work diligently to ensure no one faces cancer alone.

Peggy's Testimonial:

Cancer sucks. That is what my children said eight years ago when their dad and my husband died of cancer and they continue to espouse the same sentiment each year on the anniversary of his death. He battled the disease for over 12 years, almost half of their childhood. While he was able to live a fairly normal life until the last couple years, cancer was all we knew…pet scans, radiation, chemotherapy, clinical trials, remission and optimism, recurrence and despair – a journey with obvious highs and lows.

I was aware of Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis (CSC) from a close friend who was also a long-time board member. You should check it out, she would say and unfortunately, I never did. The 12-year struggle was hard enough with both my husband and I juggling the pressures of our professions, trying desperately to raise our children in as normal environment as possible. There just didn’t seem to be enough hours in the day to add one more thing to my plate as the focus on his treatment consumed our energies.

After he passed away, my children and I did what we needed to do to put one foot in front of the other and take one day at a time. Such a cliché but it was true; once again though, I didn’t think to reach out to CSC. Shortly after my husband passed away, my parents’ health began to fail, and my time and energy was called into action to care for them four states away. The next five years, I travelled back and forth to Ohio to care for them until their passing. It was an exhausting time in my life to watch my husband, my dad and my mom all take their last breaths.

Caregiving for those I loved so deeply took its toll on me and I began thinking about retirement. Having worked in corporate leadership roles for almost 40 years, I was ready to channel my time and talents in a different way. What timing would sense? And most importantly, how would I keep myself busy? Fast forward…I reached out to my board member friend at CSC to see if they were in need of any new board members. I ended up joining the board in July of 2019 and was amazed at all the organization had to offer and once again wondered why I had never taken advantage of the services for me and my children?

Cancer Support Community offers a myriad of programs - support services, education, healthy lifestyle/stress management, social connections and resources/referrals, all free of charge to anyone impacted by cancer – I was simply amazed!

Was it really that I didn’t have the time, or did I not really have a good understanding of all that CSC had to offer? The more I was engaged with the board, the staff and its members, it became clear to me that it was probably the latter and my commitment to make sure it wasn’t the case for anyone else grew exponentially. Everyone in the St. Louis area impacted by cancer should know about Cancer Support Community. Every business in the St. Louis area should know about Cancer Support Community and refer their employees. And every cancer treatment and research facility in the St. Louis area should know about Cancer Support Community and refer their patients. That’s it - I was hooked on supporting the mission.

I was asked to co-chair the Governance and Nomination committee in 2020 and was energized to be able to collaborate with my fellow board members and use my skills in succession planning and leadership development to help strengthen the CSC board. Being nominated to the board chair position so soon was not necessarily the plan, but I found myself not able to say no. So many other board members were trying to work, teach their children and raise their family – I now had time and was ready to give back.

Cancer Support Community is a wonderful organization, with a terrific staff and an outstanding board doing tremendous work to make sure that everyone in the St. Louis area impacted by cancer has the support they need. I look forward to the opportunity to work with the staff and the board to maximize the organization’s full potential.

Mindfulness for the Holidays

(December 04, 2020)

Take some time for yourself this holiday and take a breath. Give yourself this gift of relaxation.

November Cancer Awareness!

(November 06, 2020)

November is Pancreatic, Lung, Stomach, Carcinoid Cancer and Caregiver Awareness Month
No one should have to face cancer alone.

Join one of our weekly support groups, offered to people with a cancer diagnosis who are in active treatment, for the opportunity to share thoughts, feelings, and information. Together, group participants experience warmth, understanding, support, and learn how to manage stress. For more information on how to join a support group please call 314-238-2000.

Family and friends are welcome at our Ann Arenberg Pancreatic Cancer Monthly Group that meets the fourth Monday each month (no group in December due to Holiday) from NOON-1:30PM. Attendees exchange stories, treatment tips, and share concerns about quality of life, intensity of diagnosis, nutritional issues, and other effects of pancreatic cancer.

Our Lung Cancer Monthly Group provides a nurturing environment to learn about and discuss coping skills, disease management, and quality of life during and after treatment. Join us the second Thursday each month from 6:00PM-7:30PM at Cancer Support Community.

Caregivers need support too!

The Cancer Support Community believes that people who care about someone with cancer can actively enhance the health and wellness of their loved one and their relationships, without neglecting their own personal needs. CSC aims to ensure that all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action and sustained by community.

We invite caregivers to a twice monthly support group specifically for family and friends. This support group offers those supporting a person with cancer the opportunity to discuss common issues and learn new ways to cope with their individual stress as well as ways to support their loved ones living with cancer. For more information on how to join a support group please call 314-238-2000.

Caregivers are welcome to participate in any of our healthy lifestyle, stress management, education, and social activities too! Here are a few coming up:

Feeling a little extra stressed? Calm the anxious mind by using gentle movement and stretches to achieve constructive rest. Journey to Relaxation is the first Monday of each month at 8:00PM. Have your pillows and blankets handy!

Learn how to cope with anxiety and quiet your mind through a variety of breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, or creative journaling practices. Stress Less is on the second Tuesday of each month at 1:00 PM.

Join us for Moving Beyond Cancer: Moving Toward Nutritional Wellness on Wednesday, December 9 at 6:30PM. This workshop will focus on building awareness about nutrition during and after treatment. How to set goals, foster an open dialogue with your health care team and make healthy choices. Participants will learn some simple recipes. This session is facilitated by Karen Banks, M. Ed., LPC and Mercy Pratt Dietitian, Emma Kidd.

October Cancer Awareness!

(October 13, 2020)

October is Breast and Liver Cancer Awareness Month.

Join one of our weekly support groups, offered to people with a cancer diagnosis who are in active treatment, for the opportunity to share thoughts, feelings, and information. Together, group participants experience warmth, understanding, support, and learn how to manage stress. For more information on how to join a support group please call 314-238-2000.

Cancer Support Community offers a breast cancer monthly group the second Wednesday of each month from 5:30PM-7:00PM. This is an educational and emotionally safe group, in collaboration with Mercy, for women newly diagnosed, survivors, along with female family and friends. This group meets at David C. Pratt Cancer Center.

We can help you make a decision about treatment that is right for you – through Open to Options, an individualized decision support counseling program here at CSC. This program will help you; identify and organize your questions for your doctor, communicate in an organized manner with your medical team, and make decisions that best fit your personal desires and goals. Call us at 314-238-2000 to set up an appointment.

Join the Cancer Experience Registry today to share your experiences, identify issues that impact your life, access resources and learn from others who share your cancer journey. Make your voice heard in a special way, and help shape new programs, research, and policy for those living with Breast Cancer by joining the Breast Cancer Registry. Together we can improve cancer care and make a difference.

For more information, visit our Frankly Speaking About Cancer Series for a vast variety of publications on breast cancer and liver cancer.

Need help after CSC St. Louis closes? To speak to a licensed counselor who can answer your questions and provide you with more resources on any type of cancer, call the Cancer Support Helpline at 888-793-9355.

September Cancer Awareness!

(September 09, 2020)

September is Gynecological, Leukemia/Lymphoma, Ovarian, Prostate, and Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month.

Join one of our weekly support groups, offered to people with a cancer diagnosis who are in active treatment, for the opportunity to share thoughts, feelings, and information. Together, group participants experience warmth, understanding, support, and learn how to manage stress. For more information on how to join a support group please call 314-238-2000.

Cancer Support Community offers a gynecological cancers monthly group the third Monday of each month from 6:30PM-8:30PM. This group discusses nutrition, coping skills, fear of recurrence, intimacy challenges, and genetic concerns. For more information or support call us at 314-238-2000.

Cancer Support Community offers a prostate monthly group that features speakers and follow-up discussions on important topics such as treatment options, quality of life, incontinence, intimacy concerns, and fear of recurrence. Join us the first Thursday of each month from 6:30PM-8:00PM.

Looking for an All Cancer Monthly Group? We’ve got that too! Join us the third Tuesday of each month from 1:00PM-2:00PM. This group is designed as a safe space for people with cancer and their caregiver to share experiences as well as connect to others navigating like challenges.

Today more than 16.9 million Americans are cancer survivors, many of whom regularly receive a range of cancer-related treatments. Join us for our upcoming Frankly Speaking About Cancer: Making Treatment Decisions on September 30 from 6:30PM-8:00PM. This educational workshop is designed for people with cancer and their caregivers loved ones to learn about how to make treatment decisions.

Need help talking to your health care team about symptoms, treatments options, side effects, and getting the emotional and practical support you need? We can help you make a decision about treatment that is right for you – through Open to Options, an individualized decision support counseling program here at CSC. This program will help you; identify and organize your questions for your doctor, communicate in an organized manner with your medical team, and make decisions that best fit your personal desires and goals. Call us at 314-238-2000 to set up an appointment.

July Cancer Awareness!

(July 16, 2020)

Empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action, and sustained by community.

Although sarcoma is sometimes known as the forgotten cancer, there are steps you can take to improve awareness so that patients and survivors don’t have to feel underrepresented or alone. The purpose of a cancer awareness month is to encourage awareness, education, support, research, drug development, and other resources available to improve the lives of those impacted by cancer. Below are just some of the resources that Cancer Support Community offers to those impacted by a cancer diagnosis.

Join one of our weekly support groups, offered to people with a cancer diagnosis who are in active treatment, for the opportunity to share thoughts, feelings, and information. Together, group participants experience warmth, understanding, support, and learn how to manage stress. Our support groups are being offered through zoom during this time. For more information on how to join a support group please email us info@cancersupportstl.org.

CancerEd Online is Cancer Support Community’s interactive online educational program for cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. Topics include self-advocacy, new ways of managing cancer care, precision medicine, clinical trials, tips for living well with cancer and more.

Looking for a way to stay connected and build a support community? Through MyLifeLine, you can create a personal webpage and update family and friends on how you’re doing, let loved ones know when your next appointment is, or learn more about your specific type of cancer. The mission of MyLifeLine is to empower cancer patients and caregivers to build an online support community to encourage connection, inspiration, and healing by receiving social, emotional and practical care from loved ones.

Join the Cancer Experience Registry today to share your experiences, identify issues that impact your life and are important to you, access resources and learn from others who share your cancer journey. Together we can improve cancer care and make a difference.

April Cancer Awareness

(April 04, 2020)

Learn more about diagnosis, stages, and treatment of Testicular Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Head and Neck Cancer.

Testicular Cancer
If you or a loved one is impacted by testicular cancer or any form of cancer, utilize our resources!

Educate yourself online by sharing your experiences and learning from others through our Cancer Experience Registry - a free, confidential online community.
You can also join one of our many support groups. Visit our online resource page for more information on when our weekly and monthly groups take place. All groups are now being offered on zoom!

Head and Neck Cancer
Since the head and neck area is so closely involved with eating and drinking, nutritional intake can be more easily affected. A healthy diet is an important part of a head and neck cancer patient’s journey before, during, and after treatment. Eating healthy can help prevent weight loss, lack of appetite, and other side effects of head and neck cancer treatment. It can also help you feel better and respond better to your cancer treatment.

Check out some of our healthy eating offerings:

You can also check out this Frankly Speaking About Cancer: Eating Well with head and Neck Cancer webinar for more information on maintaining your nutrition during treatment.

Caregivers need support too!
Cancer Support Community believes that people who care about someone with cancer can actively enhance the health and wellness of their loved one and their relationships, without neglecting their own personal needs. Due to current conditions most caregivers are now considered “Long-Distance Caregivers”, so we wanted to provide you with some helpful information on how to lend support from afar.

Need help after CSC St. Louis closes? To speak to a licensed counselor who can answer your questions and provide you with more resources on any type of cancer, call the cancer support helpline at 888-793-9355.

Our CSC virtual doors are still open!

(March 25, 2020)

Programming at the Cancer Support Community facility and our community partner locations will be suspended until April 23, 2020 in accordance with the “shelter in place” order.

Although our physical doors may be closed, Our CSC virtual doors are still open!

We understand the effects of a cancer diagnosis do not stop, and neither do we! Our staff is still hard at work offering programs and resources remotely.

Check out what we've been up to on Facebook and our website!

Here are just a few resources we are offering:
• If you are in a support group and are needing to speak with someone, you can email info@cancersupportstl.org and one of our social workers will reach out as soon as they can.
• The Cancer Support Helpline has additional counselors and resource specialists that can be reached by phone at 1-888-793-9355 or live chat.
• Our Writing Workshop facilitator is offering writing prompts every Wednesday on our Facebook page. We encourage you to participate and share your own writing samples!
• Our yoga instructors are working on offering short yoga sessions online!
• Our chefs are sharing some of their favorite recipes for you and your family to make at home!
• Our social workers are creating mindfulness tools!
• We’ll be hosting a virtual creative journaling tutorial and encourage everyone to participate with items they find around their home!
• MyLifeLine is a place to connect with others like you and keep the community strong. Join discussion boards, find support and hope through exchange of ideas and stories, find resources on treatment options, financial issues, and more.

Programs temporarily suspended

(March 13, 2020)

Dear CSC Members, Instructors, Facilitators, Volunteers,

The Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis is sensitive to the current state of concern surrounding the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). It is our top priority to take action that contributes to the health and wellbeing of our members, volunteers and staff. Many individuals we serve have suppressed immune systems putting them at increased risk of infections and complications.

For the protection of our members and community, we have made the decision to temporarily suspend programs until March 30, 2020. This includes programming at CSC’s location at 1058 Old Des Peres Road, as well as programming at our community partner locations.

During this period, we remain committed to ensuring that no one faces cancer alone. Ongoing support options include:
• The Cancer Support Community helpline (1-888-793-9355): Free service for anyone affected by cancer offering resources, emotional support, and treatment support counseling. The helpline is available Monday through Friday 9am to 9pm ET.
• Online resources (www.cancersupportcommunity.org): Articles, videos, and additional support resources available through our national association website.
Up-to-date information is available on our website at www.cancersupportstl.org or on our Facebook page.

Best,

Lori Thaman
Executive Director
Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis

March Cancer Awareness

(March 05, 2020)

March is Multiple Myeloma, Colorectal and Kidney Cancer Awareness Month.
There is a whole community behind you.

Multiple Myeloma
This year, an estimated 32,110 adults will be diagnosed with multiple myeloma in the United States. You can learn more about multiple myeloma through our Frankly Speaking About Cancer resources, an educational series that provides trusted information on a variety of topics important to people affected by cancer.

Cancer Support Community offers a Multiple Myeloma Monthly Group the second Tuesday of each month from 11:30AM-1:00PM at St. Louis University Hospital, Room 3302. This group connects you with other people with multiple myeloma and their family to learn about the unique experience of living with this diagnosis. For more information or support call us at 314-238-2000.

Join the Cancer Experience Registry today to share your experiences, identify issues that impact your life, access resources and learn from others who share your cancer journey. Learn more about research, outreach, and experiences of people living with multiple myeloma through the multiple myeloma specialty registry report. Together we can improve cancer care and make a difference.

Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United State with about 147,950 new cases in 2020 alone.
• 1 in 20 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer
• 1 in 3 people are not up-to-date with colorectal cancer screening
• 25% of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer have a family history

Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer is among the 10 most common cancers in both men and women, with most being over the age of 45. There are many ways to treat kidney cancer, including surgery, radiation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy. Learn more about diagnosis and treatments for kidney cancer.

Find support with these resources:
1. Talk to your doctor about regular screenings. Through Open to Options we can help you; identify and organize your questions for your doctor, communicate in an organized manner with your medical team, and make decisions that best fit your personal desires and goals. Call us at 314-238-2000 to set up an appointment.
2. Join one of our weekly support groups, offered to people with a cancer diagnosis who are in active treatment, for the opportunity to share thoughts, feelings, and information. Together, group participants experience warmth, understanding, support, and learn how to manage stress. For more information on how to join a support group please call 314-238-2000.

In our current satisfaction survey, our members with cancer report feeling they are better able to manage cancer related stress through participation in our programs. They also share that through support groups, education workshops, and movement classes, they feel more connected with others.

Need help after CSC St. Louis closes? To speak to a licensed counselor who can answer your questions and provide you with more resources on any type of cancer, call the cancer support helpline at 888-793-9355.

February Cancer Awareness

(February 04, 2020)

1. Unwanted aloneness
2. Loss of control
3. Living with uncertainty
4. Shifting sense of hope

Together, group participants gain peace during uncertainty; connection during times of loneliness; and inspiration when hope seems lost. For more information and to schedule an appointment call us at 314-238-2000.

A small percentage of patients who have received radiation therapy to treat various cancers will develop complications anywhere from weeks to years after treatment. Hyperbaric therapy may be an effective treatment option for these individuals. Join us to learn more at our Treating Late Effects of Radiation with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy educational workshop on Wednesday, February 5th at 11:30AM.

We can help you make a decision about treatment that is right for you – through Open to Options, an individualized decision support counseling program here at CSC. This program will help you; identify and organize your questions for your doctor, communicate in an organized manner with your medical team, and make decisions that best fit your personal desires and goals. Call us at 314-238-2000 to set up an appointment.

Need help after CSC St. Louis closes? To speak to a licensed counselor who can answer your questions and provide you with more resources on gallbladder and bile duct cancer or any type of cancer, call the cancer support helpline at 888-793-9355.

February is also National Cancer Prevention Month!

There are many factors which can cause cancer, not all are fully understood. Despite this uncertainty, there are some ways to decrease your risk of developing certain types of cancer.

• It is estimated that one third of United States cancer cases could be prevented through diet and exercise. Eating well and staying in shape are good steps towards preventing some cancers. Check out our healthy lifestyle classes here.

• One of the most important ways to prevent cancer is through genetic testing. Being aware of this information helps aid you in proactive decision-making.

• Regular screenings can lead to early detection of cancer. While visiting your doctor regularly does not prevent cancer, it can lower your risk of an advanced diagnosis.

January Cancer Awareness

(January 09, 2020)

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.
Now is a great time to learn about HPV and schedule a screening.

It is estimated that nearly 13,800 women in the Unites States will be diagnosed with cervical cancer this year. Half of these cases occur in women ages 35-44. Cervical cancer, commonly cause by the humane papillomavirus (HPV), is often preventable with regular preventative screenings.

Learn more about diagnosis, stages, and treatment of cervical cancer.

Cancer Support Community offers a gynecological cancers monthly group the third Monday of each month from 6:30PM-8:00PM. This group discusses nutrition, coping skills, fear of recurrence, intimacy challenges, and genetic concerns. For more information or support call us at 314-238-2000.

Wondering how to communicate with your treatment team? Explore our Open to Options program. This program will help you identify and organize your questions for your doctor, communicate in an organized manner with your medical team, and make decisions that best fit your personal desires and goals. Please call Kelly O’Neal, Program Manager, at 314-238-2000, ext. 230 to discuss your options.

Interested in exploring clinical trials? Join us Wednesday, January 16 from 6:30PM-8:00PM for our Frankly Speaking About Cancer: Clinical Trials. This workshop will highlight the importance of research and how clinical trials work. Not every person will be on a clinical trial or needs to be on one but should be aware that a clinical trial may be a treatment option. This workshop will also be streamed via Facebook Live if you cannot join us in person.

Need help now? To speak to a licensed counselor who can answer your questions and provide you with more resources on cervical cancer or any type of cancer, call the cancer support helpline at 888-793-9355.

Intentional cooking and mindful eating for the holidays

(December 18, 2019)

Mindfulness practice for the holidays

(December 12, 2019)

Meet Rhonda...

(November 19, 2019)

This holiday season you can support individuals like Rhonda by donating here.

November Cancer Awareness

(November 05, 2019)

November is Pancreatic, Lung, Stomach, Carcinoid Cancer and Caregiver Awareness Month

No one should have to face cancer alone.

We now have TWO Lung Cancer monthly Groups! Our Lung Cancer Monthly Group provides a nurturing environment to learn about and discuss coping skills, disease management, and quality of life during and after treatment. Join us:
Second Thursday each month from 6:00PM-7:30PM at Cancer Support Community.
Third Tuesday each month from 1:00pm-2:30PM at Mercy South Cancer Care Center.

On Thursday, November 7th from 1:00PM-2:15PM, we will be holding a Mindfulness Practice focused around managing stress through the holidays. Learn to relax and stay in the moment this holiday season using mindfulness meditations.

Join the Cancer Experience Registry today to share your experiences, identify issues that impact your life, take surveys, access resources and learn from others who share your cancer journey. Make your voice heard in a special way, and help shape new programs, research, and policy for those living with cancer. Together we can improve cancer care and make a difference.

Caregivers need support too!

79% of caregivers have not had any formal training in caregiving.

Caregivers are welcome to participate in any of our healthy lifestyle, stress management, education, and social activities. In addition, we invite caregivers to a twice monthly support group specifically for family and friends. This support group offers those supporting a person with cancer the opportunity to discuss common issues and learn new ways to cope with their individual stress as well as ways to support their loved ones living with cancer. For more information on how to join a support group please call 314-238-2000.

October Cancer Awareness

(October 30, 2019)

October is Breast and Liver Cancer Awareness Month.

Cancer Support Community offers a breast cancer monthly group the second Wednesday of each month from 5:30PM-7:00PM. This is an educational and emotionally safe group, in collaboration with Mercy, for women newly diagnosed, survivors, along with female family and friends. This group meets at David C. Pratt Cancer Center.

Join the Cancer Experience Registry today to share your experiences, identify issues that impact your life, access resources and learn from others who share your cancer journey. Make your voice heard in a special way, and help shape new programs, research, and policy for those living with Breast Cancer by joining the Breast Cancer Registry. Together we can improve cancer care and make a difference.

For more information, visit our Frankly Speaking About Cancer Series for a vast variety of publications on breast cancer and liver cancer.
Need help after CSC St. Louis closes? To speak to a licensed counselor who can answer your questions and provide you with more resources on any type of cancer, call the Cancer Support Helpline at 888-793-9355.

September Cancer Awareness

(September 24, 2019)

September is Gynecological, Leukemia/Lymphoma, Ovarian, Prostate, and Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month.

Did You Know?

(September 12, 2019)

Did you know...

Living with uncertainty is a common experience for people affected by a cancer diagnosis. They may feel overwhelmed, need clarity when making treatment decisions, or want to better understand their situation. Cancer Support Community offers Open to Options® sessions to help people regain some sense of control. During a session, we can assist in developing a personalized list of concerns to help communicate clearly with a medical team, ask critical questions about options, and make sure treatment decisions fit personal hopes and goals. Knowledge is power, and Cancer Support Community can help people feel empowered to face uncertainty in their life.

Did You Know?

(September 05, 2019)

Did You Know…

You can make a forever gift to CSC and leave your lasting legacy?

After family and loved ones have been provided for, many generous individuals remember their favorite charities in their estate plans. By planning, people find they can make a larger gift through their estate than their annual or special gifts.
For Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis, gifts made through estate plans represent our future. Your legacy gift helps build endowment and ensures future generations will benefit from cancer support services provided at no charge.

Here are a few ways to make your impact last:
• Bequests
Include the Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis in your will.
• Insurance Policies
Gift a life insurance policy naming the Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis as a beneficiary.
• Retirement Assets
You can name the Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis as a beneficiary of your IRA, retirement or pension plan.

For more information on legacy giving and how your gift could be used, please reach out to Sharon Clark, Development Director, at 314-238-2000 ext. 235 or sclark@cancersupportstl.org.

If you’re considering a legacy gift, we recommend speaking with an accountant or financial adviser to understand all your legacy giving options, their tax implications, and other benefits.
Because we are affiliated with a national organization, we ask donors and their professional advisors to be certain to include our full legal name in their estate documents. This is information to include:
Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis
1058 Old Des Peres Road
St. Louis, MO 63131

Did You Know?

(August 29, 2019)

Did You Know…

Distress is the most underreported and common side effect of cancer, with nearly half of patients or caregivers reporting clinically significant cancer related distress. Psycho-oncology research identifies three significant stressors that affect a person’s ability to manage their quality of life: unwanted aloneness, loss of control and loss of hope. Cancer Support Community provides a comprehensive program to address these stressors and assist members in increasing social ties, gaining control through education and informed lifestyle changes, and finding hope and meaning with support.

Did You Know?

(August 22, 2019)

Did You Know…

You can support CSC each month with your monthly giving program gift?

Consider making your gift last all year long by giving monthly. This is a great way to support Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis and is as easy as providing pre-arranged gifts through your credit card. For more information call Sharon Clark at 314-238-2000.

• It’s Affordable: Spread your contribution throughout the year and plan in advance how much you want to contribute to help our program participants.

• It’s Convenient: Once you’ve decided how much you want to give; no further action is required. Your donation will appear on your credit card statement each month.

• Your Gift Goes Further: You will provide reliable and predictable revenue to help us with offering programs and services to people impacted by cancer in our community.

"I donate monthly to CSC because I know as a survivor and board member, CSC is meeting the needs of someone on the cancer journey every single day. I hope my consistent giving will sustain the community so that no matter what that day happens to be, no one will face cancer alone." – Peggy Nelson

Did You Know?

(August 15, 2019)

Did you know…

People with a social support network report lower levels of stress, greater physical health and a better quality of life. This is never more important than when someone receives a cancer diagnosis. Unwanted feelings of aloneness can negatively impact someone with a diagnosis, a caregiver or someone who is bereaved by cancer. At Cancer Support Community we ensure that nobody faces cancer alone. Professionally led support groups offer an opportunity for people impacted by cancer to share their experiences and feelings and ask questions of people who are going through a similar experience. In CSC social programs such as Book Club, Craft Connection, themed parties, and potlucks, our members form relationships and enjoy life together in a safe space that nurtures healing and joy.

As one member said, “When I first started coming to CSC, my mind, body, soul, emotions, and health were on the floor or the bottom of depression in a very angry dark place. After 3 years of growing, care from the wonderful people that work here, and attending the classes and programs, I am better than I have ever been. I am so happy and well-adjusted in my life. I love CSC.”

Did You Know?

(August 08, 2019)

Did You Know…

All our programs are free of charge to individuals and families impacted by cancer in our community? Do you know how this is possible?

- Individuals - like you!
- Corporate Support
- Foundations
- Healthcare Partnerships
- Events – like the walk, or DIY Fundraisers!

We rely on donations from generous hearts like yours to continue to provide support groups, educational workshops, healthy lifestyle programs, and more to anyone impacted by cancer in our community.

One of the programs made possible by YOU is our Writing Workshop; click here to check out what our members are sharing on their personal journeys.

“The supportive environment and creative process provide an exceptional outlet through which I funnel my distress into satisfying, finished writing pieces.”

This program is just one of many that offers a comfortable and supportive place where members are inspired to share and express themselves. THANK YOU!

Did You Know?

(August 01, 2019)

Did You Know…

People who engage in stress reduction programs report greater immunity and better health outcomes. In addition, studies show patients who receive support in reducing stress make fewer calls and visits to the oncologist’s office and have better adherence to treatment.

Stress reduction comes in many forms such as gentle exercise, practicing mindfulness/meditation, and healing arts. Any activity that focuses the mind, lowers the heart rate or promotes creativity can be useful in lowering stress and stimulating a calming response.

Cancer Support Community offers a wide selection of stress management programs to reach members in a variety of ways. These programs include: writing workshops, therapeutic art, musical meditation, guided imagery and therapeutic horticulture.

Did You Know?

(July 25, 2019)

Did You Know…
There are many unique and thoughtful ways to support our mission and help us take on cancer together!

Monthly Giving
Consider making your gift last all year long by giving monthly! It’s affordable, convenient, and your gift goes further.
Legacy Giving
Help ensure our future! There are many planned gift arrangements, including; a charitable bequest, gifting a life insurance policy, or simply naming CSC as a beneficiary of your IRA, retirement, or pension plan.
Stock Gifts
By directly gifting appreciated securities, you can make a more generous contribution than you might with cash.
Matching gifts
Double the impact of your gift! Check with your company to see if they offer a matching gift program. Most offer a dollar for dollar match.
Amazon Smiles
Give back while you shop! Select Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis on your Amazon account and when you shop at AmazonSmile, they will donate 0.5% of your purchase to CSC.
Schnucks eScript
Shop to fundraise! Register your My Schnucks Card at your local store with our Group ID 500821315. Use your eScript card every time you shop for groceries and Schnucks will donate up to 3% of your purchase to CSC.
DIY Fundraiser
Many individuals host Do It Yourself Fundraising Events (i.e. trivia nights, dine out nights, shop for a cause, garage sales, bake sales, etc.) throughout the year to help raise funds for our programs.

Did You Know?

(July 18, 2019)

Did You Know…

Children who have an adult parent or caregiver with cancer have higher stress symptoms than children who have experienced cancer themselves. Cancer Support Community addresses this unique distress by offering Families Connect, the only resource of its kind in the St. Louis area. Through support groups, education, a lending library, social activities, and healthy lifestyle programs, Families Connect supports the entire family when children have an adult in their lives with cancer.

“For my family, this program and the families we met were our life preservers. Our son had a place where other kids knew exactly what he was going through. My husband and I had a place to connect with other parents navigating treatment and a ‘new normal’.” -Families Connect parent

Did You Know?

(July 11, 2019)

Did You Know…
You can find fun ways to engage your kids this summer with a Do It Yourself (DIY) Fundraiser benefitting CSC?

Throw a Party

“Make a Splash” Pool Party
- Charge entry fee
- Charge for a cool floaty
- Play a fun game – like pool volleyball
- Include a tasty cook out!
“Too Cool for School” Back to School Party
- Have one last hurrah before school starts back up

Celebrate Milestones

Celebrate Your Birthday
- Ask for donations or in-kind items instead of gifts
Hats Off to You
- Ask for donations instead of gifts for kids who are graduating

In Your neighborhood

Hold a garage sale
Host a bake sale
Make a lemonade stand
Have a car wash – or dog wash!
Host a field day – for kids and adults!
- ring toss, corn hole, water balloon toss, tug-of-war, etc.

If you’re interested in hosting your own fundraiser but need some help, contact Amanda Corcoran at acorcoran@cancersupportstl.org.

June Cancer Awareness

(June 06, 2019)

Learn more about life after treatment

Cancer survivors are a growing population due to improved prevention, detection, and treatment. As of January 2019, it is estimated that there are 16.9 million cancer survivors living in the U.S. As we know, survivors face unique and ongoing challenges. In a recent study, by Cancer Support Community, cancer survivors reported challenges such as:

• Fear of cancer recurrence
• Long-term side effects (mental and physical)
• Economic burdens and financial hardship
• Distress levels in survivors are higher than those in people not affected by cancer
• Negative impact on social relationships
• Difficulty understanding the meaning of the cancer experience (spiritually)
• Depression was 14% more common and anxiety 29% more common in cancer survivors

In response to these challenges, CSC hosts support groups and educational workshops that many cancer survivors say they would recommend to others affected by cancer.

Many cancer survivors report having a lot of support during their treatment, but once treatment ended, it was hard to make a transition to a new way of life. Join our Survivorship Monthly Group the third Monday of each month from 6:30pm-8:00pm at David C Pratt Cancer Center to receive support in transition to your new “normal”. This monthly group helps work through feelings, challenges and navigating the “new normal”.

CSC also offers a monthly education session to connect those who are finished with treatment and figuring out what survivorship means through wellness in mind, body and spirit. Transition to Survivorship is the third Thursday of each month from 6:30pm-8:00pm and includes topics such as medical management, exercise, stress-management, and healthy eating.

Inspired by the work of Viktor Frankl, we will be hosting a 7-week group that explores creating, experiencing, and choosing meaning after cancer treatment. Through group discussion and personal reflection, the group will explore how history, choices, work, and experiences give meaning to life after cancer treatment. Finding Meaning in Survivorship will be Tuesdays from 10:00am-11:30am.

As you move beyond cancer, it is important to continue to maintain a healthy lifestyle. To learn ways to nourish and move your body for optimum wellness, check out the monthly healthy lifestyle classes we offer.

April Cancer Awareness

(April 02, 2019)

Learn more about diagnosis, stages, and treatment of
Testicular Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Head and Neck Cancer.

Testicular Cancer
It is estimated that there will be 9,560 new cases of testicular cancer in 2019. If you or a loved one is impacted by testicular cancer or any form of cancer, utilize our resources! Educate yourself online by sharing your experiences and learning from others through our Cancer Experience Registry - a free, confidential online community. You can also join one of our many support groups.

• Our all cancer monthly group gives people with cancer and/or their family and friends the opportunity to share resources, ideas to manage side effects, and provides a chance to get and give support to others. Join us the third Tuesday of each month from 1:00PM-2:30PM at Mercy South Cancer Care Center.
• Join one of our weekly support groups, offered to people with a cancer diagnosis who are in active treatment, for the opportunity to share thoughts, feelings, and information. Together, group participants experience warmth, understanding, support, and learn how to manage stress. For more information on how to join a support group please call 314-238-2000.

Head and Neck Cancer
Head and neck cancers include cancers of the oral cavity (including lip cancer and tongue cancer), larynx, pharynx, hypopharynx, nasal cavity, salivary glands, and sinuses.

Since the head and neck area is so closely involved with eating and drinking, nutritional intake can be more easily affected. A healthy diet is an important part of a head and neck cancer patient’s journey before, during, and after treatment. Eating healthy can help prevent weight loss, lack of appetite, and other side effects of head and neck cancer treatment. It can also help you feel better and respond better to your cancer treatment.
Check out some of our healthy eating programs here at CSC!

• Miss Mary’s Healthy Kitchen seasonal cuisine – Tuesday, April 16 • NOON-2:00PM
• Mexican Meal with STL Veg Girl – Wednesday, May 1 • 6:00PM-8:00PM
• Mindful Eating – Friday, May 10 • 11:30AM-1:30PM
• Mastering Your Energy with Food – Tuesdays April 23, May 7, May 21, June 4 • 11:00AM-1:00PM

You can also check out this Frankly Speaking About Cancer: Eating Well with head and Neck Cancer webinar for more information on maintaining your nutrition during treatment.

Caregivers need support too!
Cancer Support Community believes that people who care about someone with cancer can actively enhance the health and wellness of their loved one and their relationships, without neglecting their own personal needs. Caregivers are welcome to participate in any of our healthy lifestyle, stress management, education, and social activities. In addition, we invite caregivers to a twice monthly support group specifically for family and friends. This support group offers those supporting a person with cancer the opportunity to discuss common issues and learn new ways to cope with their individual stress as well as ways to support their loved ones living with cancer. For more information on how to join a support group please call 314-238-2000.

Need help after CSC St. Louis closes? To speak to a licensed counselor who can answer your questions and provide you with more resources on any type of cancer, call the cancer support helpline at 888-793-9355.

March Cancer Awareness

(March 06, 2019)

March is Multiple Myeloma, Colorectal and Kidney Cancer Awareness Month.
There is a whole community behind you.

Multiple Myeloma

This year, an estimated 32,110 adults will be diagnosed with multiple myeloma in the United States. You can learn more about multiple myeloma through our Frankly Speaking About Cancer resources, an educational series that provides trusted information on a variety of topics important to people affected by cancer.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United State with about 101,420 new cases in 2019 alone. Visit our Frankly Speaking About Cancer series for more information about colorectal cancer.

In our current satisfaction survey, our members with colon cancer report feeling they are better able to manage cancer related stress through participation in our programs. They also share that through support groups, education workshops, and movement classes, they feel more connected with others.

Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer is among the 10 most common cancers in both men and women, with most being over the age of 45. There are many ways to treat kidney cancer, including surgery, radiation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy. Learn more about diagnosis and treatments for kidney cancer.

Our https://cancersupportstl.z2systems.com/np/clients/cancersupportstl/event.jsp?event=107985 gives people with cancer and/or their family and friends the opportunity to share resources, ideas to manage side effects, and provides a chance to get and give support to others. Join us the third Tuesday of each month from 1:00PM-2:30PM at Mercy South Cancer Care Center.

Need help after CSC St. Louis closes? To speak to a licensed counselor who can answer your questions and provide you with more resources on any type of cancer, call the cancer support helpline at 888-793-9355.

For those who have been affected by cancer or know someone who has, Cancer Support Community is working with Walgreens to ensure individuals living with cancer receive the personalized support they need at the pharmacy and in the beauty aisle. Feel More Like You features pharmacists and beauty consultants who are specially trained to help people better manage internal and visible side effects from cancer treatment. This new service is now available at select stores and it's free!

February Cancer Awareness

(February 07, 2019)

There are many factors which can cause cancer, not all are fully understood. Despite this uncertainty, there are some ways to decrease your risk of developing certain types of cancer.
• It is estimated that one third of United States cancer cases could be prevented through diet and exercise. Eating well and staying in shape are good steps towards preventing some cancers. Check out our healthy lifestyle classes here.
• One of the most important ways to prevent cancer is through genetic testing. Being aware of this information helps aid you in proactive decision-making.
• Regular screenings can lead to early detection of cancer. While visiting your doctor regularly does not prevent cancer, it can lower your risk of an advanced diagnosis.

January Cancer Awareness

(January 15, 2019)

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.
Now is a great time to learn about HPV and cervical cancer.

It is estimated that nearly 13,000 women in the Unites States will be diagnosed with cervical cancer this year. Half of these cases occur in women ages 35-55. Cervical cancer, commonly cause by the humane papillomavirus (HPV), is often preventable with regular preventative screenings.

Learn more about diagnosis, stages, and treatment of cervical cancer.

Cancer Support Community offers a gynecological cancers monthly group the third Monday of each month from 6:30PM-8:00PM. This group discusses nutrition, coping skills, fear of recurrence, intimacy challenges, and genetic concerns. For more information or support call us at 314-238-2000.

Wondering how to communicate with your treatment team? Drop in to our Communication Workshop at Mercy South Cancer Care Center on the fourth Tuesdays from 10:00AM-11:30AM. We’ll help you prepare and organize your questions, concerns, and priorities related to cancer and discuss ways to maximize communications with your treatment team.

Need help now? To speak to a licensed counselor who can answer your questions and provide you with more resources on cervical cancer or any type of cancer, call the cancer support helpline at 888-793-9355.

Join the Cancer Experience Registry today to share your experiences, identify issues that impact your life, take surveys, access resources and learn from others who share your cancer journey. Together we can improve cancer care and make a difference.

Shannon's story in her own voice..

(November 15, 2018)

November Cancer Awareness

(November 07, 2018)

November is Pancreatic, Lung, Stomach, Carcinoid Cancer and Caregiver Awareness Month
No one should have to face cancer alone.

Our all cancer monthly group gives people with cancer and/or their family and friends the opportunity to share resources, ideas to manage side effects, and provides a chance to get and give support to others. Join us the third Tuesday of each month from 10:00AM-11:30AM at Mercy South Cancer Care Center.

Family and friends are welcome at our Ann Arenberg Pancreatic Cancer Monthly Group that meets the fourth Monday each month (December 17th due to Holiday) from NOON-1:30PM. Attendees exchange stories, treatment tips, and share concerns about quality of life, intensity of diagnosis, nutritional issues, and other effects of pancreatic cancer.

Our Lung Cancer Monthly Group provides a nurturing environment to learn about and discuss coping skills, disease management, and quality of life during and after treatment. This group meets the second Thursday of each month from 6:00PM-7:30PM.

On Wednesday, December 5th from 6:00PM-8:00PM, we will be holding a workshop called What You Should Know About Pulmonary Rehabilitation. This free workshop with Ravi P. Nayak, M.D., FCCP, Director, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine and Professor at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, provides fundamental information about pulmonary rehabilitation. Topics may include breathing techniques, medications, nutrition, relaxation, oxygen, how to do everyday tasks with less shortness of breath, and how to stay healthy and cope with changes in functioning. Dinner is provided and will start in the kitchen from 6:00-6:30.

Caregivers need support too!

79% of caregivers have not had any formal training in caregiving.

October Cancer Awareness

(October 26, 2018)

October is Breast and Liver Cancer Awareness Month.

Join the Cancer Experience Registry today to share your experiences, identify issues that impact your life, access resources and learn from others who share your cancer journey. Make your voice heard in a special way, and help shape new programs, research, and policy for those living with Breast Cancer by joining the Breast Cancer Registry. Together we can improve cancer care and make a difference.

For more information, visit our Frankly Speaking About Cancer Series for a vast variety of publications on breast cancer and liver cancer.

September Cancer Awareness

(September 27, 2018)

September is Gynecological, Leukemia/Lymphoma, Ovarian, Prostate, and Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month.

The Cancer Support Community invited people with Acute Myeloid Leukemia and their caregivers/loved ones to Frankly Speaking About Cancer: Acute Myeloid Leukemia. This free workshop featuring ways to help manage the physical and psychological effects of the disease and its treatment. The presenters are Dr. Shaun Donegan, Medical Director and Chief Oncology at Mercy South and CSC Program Manager, Kelly O’Neal, LCSW. This presentation will be offered on Facebook Live. For those who attend in person, dinner will be served from 6:00PM-6:30PM.

If you have Chronic Myeloid Leukemia, complete this worksheet to help you talk with your health care team about symptoms, treatments options, side effects, and getting the emotional and practical support you need. If you do not have CML, we can still help you make a decision about treatment that is right for you – through Open to Options, an individualized decision support counseling program here at CSC. This program will help you; identify and organize your questions for your doctor, communicate in an organized manner with your medical team, and make decisions that best fit your personal desires and goals. Call us at 314-238-2000 to set up an appointment.

July Cancer Awareness

(July 31, 2018)

Empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action, and sustained by community.

Although sarcoma is sometimes known as the forgotten cancer, there are steps you can take to improve awareness so that patients and survivors don’t have to feel underrepresented or alone. The purpose of a cancer awareness month is to encourage awareness, education, support, research, drug development, and other resources available to improve the lives of those impacted by cancer. Below are just some of the resources that Cancer Support Community offers to those impacted by a cancer diagnosis.

Join the Cancer Experience Registry today to share your experiences, identify issues that impact your life and are important to you, access resources and learn from others who share your cancer journey. Together we can improve cancer care and make a difference.

Looking for a way to stay connected and build a support community? Through MyLifeLine, you can create a personal webpage and update family and friends on how you’re doing, let loved ones know when your next appointment is, or learn more about your specific type of cancer. The mission of MyLifeLine is to empower cancer patients and caregivers to build an online support community to encourage connection, inspiration, and healing by receiving social, emotional and practical care from loved ones.

CancerEd Online is Cancer Support Community’s newest interactive online educational program for cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. Topics include self-advocacy, new ways of managing cancer care, precision medicine, clinical trials, tips for living well with cancer and more.

Join one of our weekly support groups, offered to people with a cancer diagnosis who are in active treatment, for the opportunity to share thoughts, feelings, and information. Together, group participants experience warmth, understanding, support, and learn how to manage stress. For more information on how to join a support group please call 314-238-2000.

Our all cancer monthly group gives people with cancer and/or their family and friends the opportunity to share resources, ideas to manage side effects, and provides a chance to get and give support to others. Join us the third Tuesday of each month from 1:00PM-2:30PM at St. Anthony’s Cancer Care Center.

Need help after CSC St. Louis closes? To speak to a licensed counselor who can answer your questions and provide you with more resources on any type of cancer, call the cancer support helpline at 888-793-9355.

June Cancer Awareness

(June 28, 2018)

Learn more about life after treatment

Cancer survivors are a growing population due to improved prevention, detection, and treatment. In 2016, there were more that 15.5 million cancer survivors living in the U.S. As we know, survivors face unique and ongoing challenges. In a recent study, by Cancer Support Community, cancer survivors reported challenges such as:

• Fear of cancer recurrence
• Long-term side effects (mental and physical)
• Economic burdens and financial hardship
• Distress levels in survivors are higher than those in people not affected by cancer
• Negative impact on social relationships
• Difficulty understanding the meaning of the cancer experience (spiritually)
• Depression was 14% more common and anxiety 29% more common in cancer survivors

In response to these challenges, CSC hosts support groups and educational workshops that many cancer survivors say they would recommend to others affected by cancer.

Many cancer survivors report having a lot of support during their treatment, but once treatment ended, it was hard to make a transition to a new way of life. Join our Survivorship Monthly Group the third Monday of each month from 6:30pm-8:00pm at David C Pratt Cancer Center to receive support in transition to your new “normal”. This monthly group helps work through feelings, challenges and navigating the “new normal”.

CSC also offers a monthly education session to connect those who are finished with treatment and figuring out what survivorship means through wellness in mind, body and spirit. Transition to Survivorship is the third Thursday of each month from 6:30pm-8:00pm and includes topics such as medical management, exercise, stress-management, and healthy eating.

CSC along with Siteman Cancer Center and Washington University School of Medicine invite you to learn ways to positively impact the survivorship experience after a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. During the Surviving and Thriving: A Pancreatic Cancer Patient and Caregiver Workshop, experts will address various issues relevant to pancreatic cancer survivorship and caregiving. Join us September 28th from 11:30am-3:00pm at Eric P. Newman Center.

Join St. Louis Ovarian Cancer: “Survive & Shine”, a free event for ovarian cancer survivors and caregivers. Managing side-effects and distress, integrative therapies, genetics, and updates in treatment and research will be among the sessions to choose from. This event will take place September 23rd from 8:30am-1:00pm at the St. Louis Jewish Community Center.

As you move beyond cancer, it is important to continue to maintain a healthy lifestyle. To learn ways to nourish and move your body for optimum wellness, check out the monthly healthy lifestyle classes we offer.

April Cancer Awareness

(April 23, 2018)

Learn more about diagnosis, stages, and treatment of
Testicular Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Head and Neck Cancer.

Caregivers need support too!

Our Cancer Experience Registry reported caregivers are involved in the following ways:

• 98% provided emotional support
• 96% went with their loved one to medical appointments
• 82% helped with decision-making
• 79% coordinated medical care
• 80% provided transportation
• 74% helped manage finances

Cancer Support Community launched the Cancer Experience Registry: Caregivers in December 2014. Since then, more than 200 caregivers have added their voice to topics such as emotional and physical health, their involvement in medical care, direct and indirect costs of caregiving, access to resources and unmet needs. Add your voice!

Learn more about caring for a loved one and yourself through our Frankly Speaking About Cancer resources.

In our most recent satisfaction survey, our members who identify as a support person or family member report having the opportunity to find hope and meaning through participation in our programs. They also share that through support groups, education workshops, and movement classes, they feel more connected with others.

March Cancer Awareness

(March 23, 2018)

March is Multiple Myeloma, Colorectal and Kidney Cancer Awareness Month.
There is a whole community behind you.

Multiple Myeloma

There are more than 77,000 people living with multiple myeloma in the United States, making it the second most common blood cancer. Learn more about multiple myeloma through our Frankly Speaking About Cancer resources, an educational series that provides trusted information on a variety of topics important to people affected by cancer.

Cancer Support Community offers a multiple myeloma monthly group the second Tuesday of each month from 11:30AM-1:00PM at St. Louis University Hospital, Room 3302. This group connects you with other people with multiple myeloma and their family to learn about the unique experience of living with this diagnosis. For more information or support call us at 314-238-2000.

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United State with about 90% of cases diagnosed in women and men age 50 and older. Visit our Frankly Speaking About Cancer series for more information.

Kidney cancer makes up about 4% of cancer in American adults, with most being over the age of 40. There are many ways to treat kidney cancer, including surgery, radiation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy. Learn more about diagnosis and treatments for kidney cancer.

February Cancer Awareness

(February 22, 2018)

February is Gallbladder and Bile Duct Cancer Awareness Month.
Learn more about diagnosis, stages, and treatment of bile duct cancer.

About 8,000 people in the United States are diagnosed each year. Although bile duct cancer is uncommon, there are universal experiences of living with cancer. Our weekly support groups offer people with a cancer diagnosis an opportunity to share thoughts, feelings, and information. These groups focus on:

1. Unwanted aloneness
2. Loss of control
3. Living with uncertainty
4. Shifting sense of hope

There are many factors which can cause cancer, not all are fully understood. Despite this uncertainty, there are some ways to decrease your risk of developing certain types of cancer.

• It is estimated that one third of United States cancer cases could be prevented through diet and exercise. Eating well and staying in shape are good steps towards preventing some cancers.

• One of the most important ways to prevent cancer is through genetic testing. Being aware of this information helps aid you in proactive decision-making.

• Regular screenings can lead to early detection of cancer. While visiting your doctor regularly does not prevent cancer, it can lower your risk of an advanced diagnosis.

January Cancer Awareness

(January 25, 2018)

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.
Now is a great time to learn about HPV and cervical cancer.

It is estimated that nearly 13,000 women in the Unites States will be diagnosed with cervical cancer this year. Half of these cases occur in women ages 35-55. Cervical cancer, commonly cause by the humane papillomavirus (HPV), is often preventable with regular preventative screenings.

Learn more about diagnosis, stages, and treatment of cervical cancer.

A special workshop, Intimacy After Cancer, will be held Tuesday, February 13th from 6:00PM-7:00PM. Join Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Becky Kaufman Lynn, MD, to address challenges associated with intimacy that individuals and their loved ones may experience after a cancer diagnosis.

Open Art Studio: A New Space for Creativity

(January 23, 2018)

“I hope to provide a community space for people to be creative together.”
-Kaitlyn, Art Therapy Intern

Open Art Studio is a space where members can gather, think creatively, and work expressively with a variety of art materials. Our Art Therapy intern, Kaitlyn, will run the studio and help members express their creativity. Our hope is that members have time to connect with one another through the creative process.

Open Art Studio will be held Mondays from 3pm to 4pm beginning January 29th.

Open to Options

(January 19, 2018)

We can help you make a decision about treatment that is right for you—through Open to Options, an individualized decision support counseling program here at CSC.

Open to Options makes a difference! A member who was struggling with a treatment decision recently met with Kelly, one of our social workers, to build a list of important questions, concerns, goals, and priorities related to his treatment in preparation for an appointment with his physician. At his request, Kelly shared the list with his doctor ahead of the appointment. As a result, his doctor recommended rescheduling a few days later to have enough time to discuss his options and fully address his questions.

If you want help preparing for treatment discussions with your health care team, consider Open to Options. Contact Kelly O’Neal, MSW, LMSW at 314-238-2000 ext. 230 to learn more.

CSC is helping families take on cancer. You can too!

(December 28, 2017)

There are only a couple of days left in the year to give a gift! Make a difference in the lives of people facing cancer in our community – people like Justin and his family.

“CSC got me through one of the toughest times in my life.”
- Justin, CSC member

We were able to offer these life-changing programs to Justin, his family, and 1,300 other individuals in 2017 because of the generosity of individuals like you. Your gift will provide resources and opportunities for the next patient, caregiver or family who comes through our doors looking for support.

Birch Trees, Elephants, and Sunbeams

(December 04, 2017)

At Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis, empowerment, support and community are as represented in action as they are in the space.

Each group room includes natures elements of water, wind and air and were inspired by Michele Fiala to provide an oasis and connection.

The butterfly piece between Group Rooms 1 and 2, donated by a member’s father, reminds us “the love of beauty is one of nature’s healers.”

Further down the hallway, we see an elephant, a member of a community that inspires strength, gentleness, hope, compassion, and power.

The Community Gathering Room includes Birch Trees, a tree that thrives in community with other trees and represents renewal, protection, and new beginnings.

The sunburst in our logo, built of smaller rays that represent the many people and actions that give support and care, come together to bring comfort, support, and of course, Community.

As you come to CSC in 2018, our 25th year in St. Louis, we look forward to listening to the words Members use to describe their story, seeing the art used to represent connection, and participating in the action that builds community.

Stock Gifts and IRA Charitable Rollovers: Two Ways to Give Now

(November 29, 2017)

The market has been at an all-time high, which makes this a great time to donate stock! By directly gifting appreciated securities, you can make a more generous contribution than you might with cash. In addition, you may get an income tax deduction for the value of the donated stock without incurring any capital gains tax. Find out more about gifting stock to CSC.

An IRA Charitable Rollover is another timely giving option for individuals age 70-1/2 and older who still need to make a required minimum distribution from a traditional IRA. These individuals can donate a qualified charitable distribution directly to CSC through an IRA Charitable Rollover without having to first recognize it as income. It is often more tax-efficient than withdrawing the required amount and then contributing. Read more about IRA Charitable Rollovers.

Both options are great ways to invest in programs that help people facing cancer gain hope, knowledge and community! Please consult your tax or financial advisor for professional advice.

A Story of Gratitude

(November 13, 2017)

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, this month’s topic in our Families Connect Group was Gratitude. Families Connect is a program for the whole family when a parent, guardian, or grandparent is facing a cancer diagnosis. This program helps families address the physical, psychological, and emotional challenges of cancer, together.

During the session parents discussed ways to model gratitude to their children. “Even when life is hard, difficult or sad, there is still room for gratitude – it’s not either/or, it’s yes/and,” said Dannie Hodges, Program Manager. One of our facilitators led the children in an exercise where they made gratitude paper chains. They created a link representing the remaining days until Thanksgiving. On each link, the child wrote something they are grateful for and how they were going to share an act of kindness with the world or to themselves.

Kelly O’Neal, Program Coordinator, wrapped up the evening by hanging four posters throughout our building. Families visited each poster and filled in the spaces with words of gratitude. According to O’Neal, even our youngest members actively participated: “One of my kids said he’s thankful for activities that his whole family can do together despite his dad’s cancer.”

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we appreciate every member of our community and everyone who makes it possible.

Exploring Connections Through Families Connect

(June 30, 2017)

Cancer affects the whole family. That’s why we have Families Connect, a program for the whole family when a parent, guardian, or grandparent is facing a cancer diagnosis. We offer our five pillars of support—support, education, healthy lifestyle/stress management, social opportunities, and resource and referral—within the context of the family to help them together address the physical, psychological, and emotional challenges of cancer.

A recent Families Connect program focused on resource and referral. “I think it is very important that individuals are aware of other organizations in our community, in addition to CSC, that are beneficial for families facing cancer,” says CSC Program Manager Dannie Hodges. To that end, we invited Jennifer Lang from Wings on Wheels, a mobile expressive therapy program offered by BJC Hospice, to lead families in expressive art play. Families came together to create wax candles with an inspirational message or hope inside that reveals itself as the candle burns down signifying the release of that inspiration or hope. They also made decorative silk flags as symbols of the love and connections they share.

Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis (CSC) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to ensure that all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action, and sustained by community to enhance their overall well-being. All programs are offered at no charge in a comfortable, home-like environment. Cancer Support Community offers professionally-led support groups, educational workshops, healthy life-style and stress-management classes, and social connections to empower and educate individuals affected by cancer.

How Do Your Genes Fit?

(April 26, 2017)

Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis (CSC), Sharsheret, Myraid Genetics, and St. Louis Ovarian Cancer Awareness (SLOCA) are proud to partner for a three-part educational series called How Do Your Genes Fit? The series will kick off at The J – St. Louis on April 27th with a reception and presentation from Suzanne Mahon DNSc, RM, AOCN, APGN, providing an introduction to what we know about genetics and cancer. The evening will end with a “pre-vivor” and cancer survivor discussing the balance of knowing and choosing a path to wellness.

One of our featured speakers, Dawn, was diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago, at age 35. Unfortunately, cancer runs in her family. Of her eight aunts, seven have tested positive for the BRCA 2 mutation. Last month she lost her mother to ovarian and breast cancer and believes that if her family had known about this genetic mutation, her mother would still be alive. She hopes to share her story and make others aware of this genetic mutation. As Dawn states, “Knowledge is power”.

The series continues May 10th with a class about food choices that can help promote health and wellness. The series will conclude June 14th with a workshop by Jennifer Kane, DC, who will give you the chance to explore ideas for self-care to improve health during and after cancer treatment. Some examples will include exercises such as yoga, qi gong, acupressure, diet, and even the importance of breathing.

Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis (CSC) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to ensure that all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action, and sustained by community to enhance their overall well-being. All programs are offered at no charge in a comfortable, home-like environment. Cancer Support Community offers professionally-led support groups, educational workshops, healthy life-style and stress-management classes, and social connections to empower and educate individuals affected by cancer.

There Is Healing In The Lyrics At Cancer Support Community

(February 22, 2017)

“Each person has a story to be told, a voice to be heard, and a song to sing.”
- Tracie Sandheinrich, Kids Rock Cancer music therapist

The families of Cancer Support Community Families Connect Program experienced the power of community music making first hand during Healing in the Lyrics, a special Families Connect night. A board certified music therapist worked with families to transform feelings and stories into song. This therapeutic song writing process is an intervention that helps kids to express their feelings in a safe and spontaneous way. Families come together to create a special memory; as Tracie Sandheinrich, Kids Rock Cancer Music Therapist shared, “For many, this becomes a cherished, tangible token and memory for families that can be unbelievably powerful.”

With a common mission to assist the Whole Family the Whole Time, Cancer Support Community’s Families Connect and Maryville University’s Kids Rock Cancer partnership has enabled Kids Rock Cancer to offer therapeutic songwriting services with a board certified music therapist to families affected by a cancer diagnosis at Cancer Support Community at no charge. “This has helped so many patients and families gain self-esteem, a safe place to process their feelings and emotions, and also provide them with an opportunity to communicate effectively about their illness. There is nothing more powerful to me than to see the emotional transitions I am lucky enough to witness during one of these sessions.”

Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis (CSC) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to ensure that all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action, and sustained by community to enhance their overall well-being. All programs are offered at no charge in a comfortable, home-like environment. Cancer Support Community offers professionally-led support groups, educational workshops, healthy life-style and stress-management classes, and social connections to empower and educate individuals affected by cancer.

What’s New In Our Garden

(February 21, 2017)

Cancer Support Community is excited to partner with Missouri Botanical Garden to expand the use of our Inspiration Garden. The inspiration for our garden is to help connect our community through growing and working together. During its first year in 2016, the garden provided fresh produce used in our healthy cooking classes and harvested by members for personal use. This year the use of the garden will be expanded to incorporate our entire CSC Program including support, education, healthy lifestyle, and social connections. Although the garden will consist of beautiful plants and flowers this year, there will be a small herb section to use in our cooking classes. Members experienced a sneak peek of what an educational class could look like by learning the multiple uses of lavender and creating take home lavender sachets. We are thrilled to see the fruits of our labor this year.

The first of new Star Wars events for the entire family comes alive at Cancer Support Community.

(February 10, 2017)

In a galaxy far far away, Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis held an epic family night where the Star Wars film saga came to life. Families took a unique journey into the Star Wars universe through this one of kind experience. Our mission was to give the whole family an unforgettable night. The voyage began with iconic characters from the 501st Legion greeting community members from our Families Connect program. Their legendary trek was filled with photo ops, popcorn, cookies, and plenty of fun. As one member shared, “We love coming here. This is a fun family event we can share with other families.”

Families Connect is a program offered by Cancer Support Community specifically for children and teens who have a parent, guardian or grandparent with a cancer diagnosis. One mother said, “This is a wonderful place to help navigate through the new normal.” Here at CSC we believe that no one should have to face cancer alone. This force is stronger than ever.

Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis (CSC) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to ensure that all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action, and sustained by community to enhance their overall well-being. All programs are offered at no charge in a comfortable, home-like environment. Cancer Support Community offers professionally-led support groups, educational workshops, nutrition and exercise programs, and stress-reduction classes to empower and educate individuals affected by cancer.

The Whole Family, the Whole Time: Our New Families Connect Room and the St. Luke’s Family Resource Library

(July 15, 2016)

Cancer Support Community will introduce the Families Connect Room and St. Luke’s Family Resource Library, funded in partnership with St. Louis Men’s Group Against Cancer and St. Luke’s Hospital, with an Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Monday, August 1st from 5:30 -7:00 PM at CSC, 1058 Old Des Peres Road, St. Louis, 63131. Please call 314-238-2000 to RSVP.

The new Families Connect Room and St. Luke’s Family Library, funded by St. Luke’s Hospital through the St. Louis Men’s Group against Cancer, will provide additional support and resources, not only for families with a parent or adult caretaker with cancer who are in our Families Connect group, but also for families in that same situation who have children under five years old who are too young for the family group.

One CSC Member, Justin, found the new family library helpful when revealing his cancer diagnosis to his three-year-old son and shared; “When I got my diagnosis, I was worried about a lot of things, especially what to say to my son, who was three at the time. CSC's library has been a tremendous resource for our family. We've found books that help us talk to him in an age appropriate way about what was going on with me. My wife and I are grateful that we had access to these resources that helped him process his own feelings and have a sense of control during what's been a really uncertain time.”

This family friendly room hosts a variety of materials to support the whole family, the whole time. Books are available for children, teens and adult caretakers addressing cancer education, coping skills, emotions, bereavement, stress management and survivorship. Families will be able to take workbooks, stress management supplies, and enjoy the special space designated just for families with children and teens.

Providing resources through the Families Connect Room and St. Luke’s Family Library is another way we can serve families as part of our overall Families Connect Program for families impacted by cancer with children and teens, which includes support groups like the Families Connect Monthly Networking Group and Kid Support™, educational programs such as how to talk to children and teens about cancer, healthy lifestyle/stress management programs like family yoga, and social opportunities.

VP Biden’s Cancer Moonshot Leads to Local Partnership

(July 13, 2016)

On June 29th, Vice President Biden convened a Cancer Moonshot Summit, including conversations in communities across the United States. These Summits were the first time that individuals and organizations representing the entire cancer community and beyond – researchers, oncologists, care providers, philanthropists, data and tech experts, advocates, patients and survivors – have all convened under the national charge to double the rate of progress toward a cure.

Locally, Cancer Support Community, American Cancer Society, and American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network partnered together to take action against cancer as part of Vice President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot through the St. Louis Cancer Moonshot Summit. The St. Louis Moonshot Summit was an opportunity to share updates and discuss efforts to accelerate LOCAL progress in cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care while keeping the patient experience at the front of the conversation.

“Every day at CSC we see the power of Community in improving lives of people affected by cancer. It is always a good reminder to see that the power of Community extends to developments in treatment of cancer as well,” said CSC Program Director Renata Sledge, LCSW.

Eighty local cancer survivors, doctors, volunteers and their families gathered to watch Vice President Biden make remarks on the status of the National Cancer Moonshot and listen to the panel discussion with cancer experts including speakers from CSC and ACS.

On the panel, CSC Program Director Renata Sledge, LCSW, discussed the patient experience with clinical trials and how it’s changed. She shared information and statistics from the Cancer Support Community report, Refreshing the Dialogue on Clinical Trials. Thirty years ago if you had asked people facing cancer what they thought about participating in a clinical trial, you would probably have heard responses like this. “I am worried about being a guinea pig or a lab rat.” “I don’t want to take the chance of getting a placebo.” “I don’t think there is any real benefit for me.” Or, “I don’t trust the medical profession.”

Since that time, there has been steady (and in some cases amazing) progress in improving the outcomes of treatment for many cancers. Every step of that progress is the result of cancer clinical trials. Designed to make sure new therapies are safe and effective, clinical trials are the engine that drive cancer progress. Patients who join these trials have access to the newest therapies and excellent care. By joining a clinical trial, they give themselves hope for longer and better lives. They also contribute to better cancer treatment for others facing cancer.

The good news is that more and more people are considering a cancer clinical trial when they are first diagnosed – and that helps speed up breakthroughs in cancer care. But there is clearly a need for more people to learn about and consider this option. Cancer Support Community will address this need by offering an educational workshop, Frankly Speaking about Cancer Clinical Trials, October 29th, with speakers from Siteman Cancer Center and St. Louis University Cancer Center. Call 314-238-2000 for more information.

New Inspiration Garden Provides Community, Healthy Food and a Place to Gather

(July 11, 2016)

A long-time dream of the organization and of one Board member especially, our new Inspiration Garden, donated by CSC Board Member Robin McClanathan, was designed and built in the Fall of 2015. The garden now provides a space for members and volunteers to socialize and collaborate to grow flowers and plants for enjoyment and veggies and herbs for healthy cooking in Miss Mary’s Healthy Kitchen Programs, and so much more!

CSC Program Coordinator, Dannielle Hodges, MSW, LCSW, who’s worked closely with the Garden Club, spoke about the garden’s role in our community; “The Inspiration Garden has provided so many opportunities for our members to come together in community whether it be the planning and sharing of ideas, to physically working together as a team and now enjoying the fruits of that labor. This garden has allowed members to share their horticultural, creative and artistic talents with one another and to contribute to the community by providing produce for nutrition classes and whoever wants to enjoy it.”

While waiting for the Spring ground-breaking, Garden Club members met frequently to plan, design and gather supplies. In April, CSC Garden Club member Marsha Phillips secured a donation of bags of soil, fertilizer, compost and other garden supplies from Lowe’s in Arnold, where she works. We are grateful to Store Manager Brian Andrasko and Lowe’s for these useful supplies. In April, Garden Club members also went on working field trips to our partner, EarthDance Organic Farm School ‘s location, for hands-on education including weeding, mulching, planting and clean-up.

After months of planning, on May 27th, our Garden Club members broke ground on our Inspiration Garden located in the courtyard by our Miss Mary’s Kitchen. With the help of Kaitie Adams, Volunteer Coordinator at EarthDance Organic Farm School, members planted our first round of vegetables, herbs and flowers in our garden. In June and July, Garden Club members have enjoyed harvesting vegetables and sharing them with the community. Vegetables are shared with members in a basket in our kitchen.

The Inspiration Garden has been woven into all of our Programs and community. During a recent New Member tour, Program Director Renata Sledge witnessed other group members enjoying a salad made from freshly harvested vegetables. Last month, Families Connect Monthly Networking Group members worked with teaching artist Maria Ojascastro on artistically claiming their own space in the garden and planting ingredients to top their pizza at a future Families Connect meeting!

Our next big garden milestone will be our Garden Club Harvest Gathering on Wednesday, September 28 from 6:30 – 8:00 PM. Join us and celebrate while we sample the produce from the garden and honor the work and connections we have made in the Inspiration Garden.

The Member Experience: 2015 Program Survey Results

(July 08, 2016)

At Cancer Support Community we say that we “empower lives” and “inspire hope”. How do we do achieve those lofty goals? CSC offers up to 16,379 hours of programs equating to over $982,740 of professional service to our members annually at no charge to them. Since 2010, we have also measured quantitatively and qualitatively how well we are serving our members and how the lives of members are affected by attending our programs through our annual program survey so we can continue to make improvements and adjust to best serve our members.

Our members shared that some of the ways our programs benefited their lives are that they feel more connected to others, are more able to access community resources, have opportunities to find hope and meaning, are better able to express their full range of emotions, and feel more empowered to make informed health related decisions.

Often someone facing a cancer diagnosis finds that even family and friends may not understand what they’re going through. One CSC member shared that “I can come here and be understood. This place offers programs that help me cope with life as it comes…” and another shared that CSC is “such a comfortable place to experience new things or to delve deeply into complex issues. It is a place where people “get it.”

From the moment of diagnosis through treatment and beyond, the effects of cancer aren’t only physical – there is a profound emotional and social impact as well. Joining a community of people who have experienced cancer firsthand can decrease the sense of isolation and empower you as you live with cancer. Another CSC member shared that CSC “was my lifeline. It kept me going.”

Our 2015 annual program survey showed that member satisfaction with programs remains high and the experience overall was a 4.82 out of 5, where 1 is “Not at all satisfied” and 5 is “Very satisfied". It’s great to measure program satisfaction and gather feedback, but how do we use these results? Our program department analyzes our annual program survey results and anecdotal feedback and integrates information about program satisfaction, perceived benefit and demographics into our Individualized Wellness Plans and program planning.

Your support allows us to offer quality programs managed by licensed mental-health professionals and to continue to measure and improve them based on participant feedback so we can continue to empower lives and inspire hope in the community.

Cancer Support Community Builds a New Website, Designed with the User in Mind, with the Help of the Staenberg Family Foundation

(June 10, 2016)

With the help of a matching grant from the Staenberg Family Foundation, Cancer Support Community worked with Hier Intelligence on designing a new website to better tell our organization’s story to our friends, members, donors and partners.

Cancer Support Community’s new website has an updated look and is easier to navigate. The new site has fewer navigation categories (easier to follow categories like Get Support/Give Support) and is less text heavy -- making it easier for people to find our programs, services, events and how to donate and volunteer.

In the header of every page above the navigation bar, we have social media icons on the top left and the “Donate Now” button on top right, and on the footer of every page, we have our contact information and email sign up, so that people can easily find where to donate and connect with us.

Our website now has responsive design so that it automatically resizes and looks and works correctly in mobile phones, tablets, and desktop computers and the Donate Now button stays in prominent upper right spot. With 80% of internet users owning a smartphone and 51% of internet time spent on mobile devices*, this is an important update Cancer Support Community has needed to be more accessible to the public.

Our website has a scrolling image bar at top of homepage highlighting our news, upcoming featured programs and fundraising events allowing us to better promote our organization, programs and fundraising activities.

Every page now has scrolling bar of community partner logos that will link to those companies who are our top supporters allowing us to recognize our key donors.

Additional features on our new site through our Neon CRM software are a program calendar that links to program descriptions and register links, improved donation forms and improved program registration form with the ability to register for more than one program at a time and ability to register more than one person at a time.

Our hope is that our new website, designed to make everything easier for the user, helps people find us and find out about our programs, services and events for people impacted by cancer in St. Louis.

*Source: State of mobile marketing 2015 report by Mary Meeker via Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers

Nominate a Pharma Hero and Support CSC

(April 01, 2016)

At the beginning of 2016, UBC, an Express Scripts Company, launched the Pharma Heroes Program. Designed to shine a light on the heroes of the pharma and biotech industry, the Program celebrates the remarkable and largely unrecognized daily acts that move the industry forward.

Throughout this year, anyone can nominate a Pharma Hero online by visiting www.PharmaHeroes.com. For each nomination, UBC will notify the Pharma Hero and donate $25 to Cancer Support Community. It’s a great way to recognize individuals who go above and beyond, but rarely seek attention for their efforts—and to help those facing cancer in St. Louis. We are thrilled to be involved!

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2021 Incoming Board Chair: Peggy Scott

Photo credit: Alexandria Mooney Photography

2021 begins with a very special welcome to our new Board Chair, Peggy Scott, who brings almost 40 years of experience in business and human resource management plus leadership development.

Peggy's Testimonial:

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November Cancer Awareness!

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Open Art Studio: A New Space for Creativity

Open to Options

CSC is helping families take on cancer. You can too!

Birch Trees, Elephants, and Sunbeams

Stock Gifts and IRA Charitable Rollovers: Two Ways to Give Now

A Story of Gratitude

Exploring Connections Through Families Connect

How Do Your Genes Fit?

There Is Healing In The Lyrics At Cancer Support Community

What’s New In Our Garden

The first of new Star Wars events for the entire family comes alive at Cancer Support Community.

The Whole Family, the Whole Time: Our New Families Connect Room and the St. Luke’s Family Resource Library

VP Biden’s Cancer Moonshot Leads to Local Partnership

New Inspiration Garden Provides Community, Healthy Food and a Place to Gather

The Member Experience: 2015 Program Survey Results

Cancer Support Community Builds a New Website, Designed with the User in Mind, with the Help of the Staenberg Family Foundation

Nominate a Pharma Hero and Support CSC

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