Support

Once cancer becomes a part of your life, you will experience physical and emotional changes as well as the need to adjust some of the practical aspects of your life. You may feel the need for support from a mental health professional or a support group. You may want to talk to a nutritionist about dietary changes that can help you feel better.

Seattle Cancer Care Alliance staff is here to provide you with the knowledge and support you need to help you navigate through your days and months of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. SCCA has social workers, psychiatrists, psychologists, and pastoral services available for you. Below are some resources and support services for you, your family, and friends through SCCA and online.

Resources for you

Patient and Family Support
Helpful information for patients and families, such as housing if you are from out of town, transportation, and resources for children.

SCCA Resource Center
Located on the first floor of the SCCA clinic, the Resource Center offers materials and informational resources.You will find online workstations, information on SCCA activities and programs (including the Healing Music Project, support groups, and some of the programs listed below), as well as a wide range of information on skin cancer for patients, families, and caregivers. You can also pick up a copy of the SCCA monthly Activities Calendar, which lists days and times of SCCA events, lectures, and classes.

Some SCCA Programs

• Living Well With Cancer Program This program has specially trained instructors and volunteers who provide free classes and activities for patients, family members, and caregivers at the SCCA clinic and at University of Washington Medical Center.
• Look Good, Feel Better The American Cancer Society offers this unique program for women and teens undergoing cancer treatment. The sessions at SCCA focus on skin care, cosmetics, wigs, and head wraps. Patients receive a free makeover and cosmetic samples to try at home.
• Beauty and Cancer Program Caring volunteers offer support and ideas for personal care during cancer treatment. They assist SCCA patients with hats, turbans, wigs, skin care, and make-up, and with identifying community resources. To schedule an appointment with a Beauty and Cancer volunteer at the SCCA clinic or on floor 8-SE at University of Washington Medical Center, call (206) 598-3604.

August 2007