At the Carol G. Simon Cancer Center there are a wide range of services available to patients and their families at all stages of their cancer experience. These services are designed to enhance treatment and help patients and families cope with the emotional challenges associated with cancer and cancer treatment throughout New Jersey.
Psychosocial Support Services Support Groups Palliative Care Volunteer Services Educational Programs The Resource Room
At any time, a social worker is available to assist patients and their families with any non-medical concerns related to their diagnosis, treatment or hospitalization, including financial assistance, health care resources, work-related issues, and home care needs. In addition, counselors who are dedicated exclusively to cancer care are available to meet privately with any patient or family member to discuss any concerns, fears or anxieties that may accompany a cancer diagnosis.
For more information, call 973-971-5169.
Our professionally led support groups are available for patients and their loved ones to receive emotional support from other individuals who are going through similar experiences. Some of the support groups we offer are:
• Breast Cancer Support Group
• Ovarian Cancer Support Group
• Prostate Cancer Support Group
• Lymphoma and Leukemia Support Group
• Lung Cancer Support Group
• Head and Neck Cancer Support Group
• Ostomy Support Group
• Multiple Myeloma Support Group
For more information on these and other groups, call 973-971-5169.
When a patient is having difficulty accepting or understanding diagnosis, prognosis or available treatments, or is considering forgoing life-prolonging therapy, our palliative care team is available to help make the transition from treatment to symptom management as comfortable as possible. Palliative care is provided by a consulting physician and may involve a social worker, chaplain, and volunteers as needed by the patient.
For more information, call 973-971-5550.
The Cancer Center has a dedicated group of specially trained volunteers who are available to support patients and their families before, during and after the diagnosis of cancer. Volunteers may be seen giving directions to a new visitor, helping out in the Cancer Resource Room, or visiting with patients while they wait for a doctor. These devoted individuals bring a human touch to our center and provide support and comfort to many patients and family members.
For more information, call 973-971-5887.
Being educated about cancer, available treatments and possible side effects can enhance a patientís ability to cope and heal. We offer a wide range of educational programs to help patients and their families gather as much information as possible about their diagnosis and treatments, including:
I Can Cope: An eight-week program for newly diagnosed patients and their loved ones that provides information about cancer, treatment options, communication, survivorship and maintaining emotional health. This program is co-sponsored by the American Cancer Society and the Carol G. Simon Cancer Center.
Radiation Oncology New Patient Orientation:An introduction to radiation treatment that includes information about the radiation oncology department, how radiation therapy is delivered, and how to manage potential side effects.
Chemotherapy Orientation: Patients learn how to prepare for chemotherapy and cope with possible side effects. A nurse, a registered dietitian, a social worker and a cancer survivor will be available during this class.
Breast Cancer Pre-operative Class: A discussion about what to expect before and after breast cancer surgery. Provides emotional support and self-care tips.
Post Breast Surgery Pool Exercise Program: Pool exercise and peer support for women who have had either a lumpectomy or mastectomy and are two weeks to 18 months post-surgery. Co-sponsored by the American Cancer Society and the Carol G. Simon Cancer Center.
Look Good, Feel Better Program: A free program that helps women who are undergoing cancer treatment manage appearance-related side effects. The program teaches make-up application and skin care techniques, as well as wig and hair care accessory demonstrations. Sponsored by the American Cancer Society; Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association; and National Cosmetology Association.
Prostatectomy Pre-operative Class: A discussion about what to expect before and after prostate surgery, as well as the support services available during treatment. Men are encouraged to attend with a spouse or partner.
I Cancer-Vive: An eight-week class that empowers cancer patients to take a mind, body and spirit approach to healing.
The Cancer Center's Resource Room provides patients and their families with the most up-to-date information on cancer diagnosis, treatment and support. Knowledge about all aspects of cancer and cancer treatment enables patients to better cope with their illness, lead fuller lives and access the highest quality care.
The Cancer Resource Room offers a wide variety of literature and audiovisual materials on all types of cancer and cancer-related issues to browse or borrow. Internet access with direct links to informative sites, and information on support groups and complementary treatments are also available.
In addition, the Resource Room has a variety of hats and caps donated by service organizations in our community for those who may be coping with hair loss. There is also information about where to purchase wigs and mastectomy products in the Morris County area. Grants and other programs are available to assist those who cannot afford to purchase breast prostheses and mastectomy bras.
For more information, call the Cancer Resource Room at 973-971-6182.