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Classes and Support Groups at the Avera Cancer Institute

Through Avera Cancer Institute's Oncology Support Services, we provide expert medical care and support services that address your unique physical, emotional and spiritual needs.

Support groups are for family members as much as they are for those with cancer. Because loved ones may need help in dealing with disruptions, financial conflicts, difficult role changes and other stresses, Avera Cancer Institute is committed to help family members come to terms with the disease and the changes it brings about.

For further information about these or other offerings at the Avera Cancer Insitute please call 605-322-3000 or 1-800-657-4377.

CLIMB® - Children’s Lives Include Moments of Bravery

This is a unique program for children who’s parent or grandparent is going through cancer treatment. The program is designed to meet the needs of children ages 5 to 12 years of age. Learn more about CLIMB® now »

When: TBD-Call 605-322-3000 for Melanie Villmow

A Time to Heal for All cancers

This program is a 12 week education and rehabilitation program. Participants need to be at least six months into their treatment and have the capacity to attend the 12 weekly sessions that are each approximately 3 hours in length. Each participant is able to bring one caregiver that will also attend the 12 week sessions.

When: Fall 2010

Take Charge of Your Nutrition

Learn to maximize your nutrition and discover ways to manage side effects of treatments.

When: 2nd Monday at 2:00 p.m.; 4th Wednesday at 11:00 a.m.

Where: 3rd Floor Classroom of Avera Cancer Institute - 1000 East 21st Street

Cost: Free

Look Good . . . Feel Better

A class for women that deals with the outward side effects of chemotherapy and radiation on hair and skin. Click for more information about Look Good...Feel Better »

When: 2nd Tuesday at 1:00 - 3:00p.m.and 4th Wednesday at 4:00 - 6:00p.m.

Registration required: Call American Cancer Society Navigator at 605-328-6009

Where: 3rd Floor Classroom of Avera Cancer Institute - 1000 East 21st Street

Cost: Free

Prostate Cancer Support Group

Men (and women) whose lives and/or lifestyles have been touched by Prostate Cancer are invited to attend.

When: First Tuesday of every month, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Where: Medical X-Ray Center Administrative Boardroom - 519 West 22nd Street

Cost: Free

Massages

Two options are available for massage by Licensed Massage Therapists

1. Massage Mondays: From 2-4:00pm FREE 15 minute massage are available.

2. Wednesdays Noon-3:00pm massages are available for a fee of $1/minute with a minimum of 15 minutes. We accept cash and checks.

Appointments available by calling the Avera Cancer Institute at 605-322-3000 or 1-800-657-4377.

Bone Marrow Transplant Support Group

Group of individuals, and their caregivers, that have gone through or may be undergoing a transplant.

When: 2nd Thursday of every month (September through May), 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Where: Avera Cancer Institute Library - 1000 East 21st Street

Cost: Free

A Time to Heal

12-week education and support program for women that have completed breast cancer treatment. Click for more information about A Time to Heal »

When:  Fall 2010

Where: Avera Cancer Institute - 1000 East 21st Street

Cost: Free

Yoga for Healing and Recovery

A therapeutic yoga class for cancer patients and their caregivers. Click for more information about Yoga For Healing and Recovery »

Where: The Dharma Room, 220 S. Phillips, Downtown Sioux Falls

Call The Dharma Room for dates and times: 605-271-9642.

For further information about these or other offerings at the Avera Cancer Insitute please call 605-322-3000 or 1-800-657-4377.

Other Support Group Resources

CancerCare is a national nonprofit organization that provides free, professional support services to anyone affected by cancer: people with cancer, caregivers, children, loved ones, and the bereaved. CancerCare programs—including counseling and support groups, education, financial assistance and practical help—are provided by professional oncology social workers and are completely free of charge.

More information about the CancerCare online support groups »

More information about the CancerCare telephone support groups »