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Support groups lead the way in helping some patients and familiesbrought on by disease or medical treatment

by Mary Ellen Zenka
Photos by Phillip Channing

Awkward conversations may occur after patients tell their friends and family that they have been diagnosed with a serious illness.  Medical treatment can sometimes result in patients, and even their families, having to cope with a “new normal.” For some people, the situation can be overwhelming. The USC-owned hospitals offer options that may help.

“There are a variety of approaches that can contribute unique and powerful avenues for support and comfort,” says Susan Waters, licensed clinical social worker and co-facilitator of the new Breast Cancer Support Program at USC Norris Cancer Hospital.

“The support of loved ones can be extremely helpful. Some patients and families benefit from professional counseling, as well. And for many, the sense of belonging and understanding, which is shared by members of a support group, is invaluable. Each individual has to decide what is the best fit for him or her. A combination of several approaches may provide the
best outcome.”
 
HEAD AND NECK SURGERY SUPPORT  When Blair Franks, 62, learned he had throat cancer several years ago, an enormity of emotions and questions took center stage in his life. Franks became aware that this type of cancer treatment would at least temporarily impair him and could possibly cause permanent, visible damage to his head and neck. Although he was treated successfully by Uttam Sinha, M.D., chief and residency program director in the Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, Franks thought his long-term recovery would be aided if he could connect with others facing similar issues and challenges.

One year into Franks’ recovery, the Head and Neck Cancer Support Program was founded by Sinha and his staff, and today, Franks is the volunteer at its helm. “Head and neck cancers are called the cancers of the lonely,” says Franks. “People often retreat to their homes because these cancers, and their treatments, affect how people project themselves to the world. They often will remain disfigured, and may have either short- or long-term difficulties with eating and speaking. As a result, many patients isolate themselves.”

Five years later, Sinha continues to recognize the profound impact this support has on his patients. “This group gives an opportunity for me and many of my colleagues to treat our patients’ health as a whole, not just treat their cancer,” says Sinha. “We discuss many subjects pertaining to a patient’s psycho-social health, and we frequently have speakers such as nutritionists or speech therapists to help people adjust to the challenges.”

The group meets monthly with 20-40 people in attendance. Patients are encouraged to attend before their treatment even begins and to keep attending long after their treatment is complete. According to Sinha, there is a kind of mentoring atmosphere whereby those who are much further along in their treatment and recovery help to guide the others who have just been diagnosed.

“By encouraging mentoring, we find that patients are led through this process by those with real life experience, and it gives them comfort,” Sinha adds. “Most of all, our program celebrates life. By maintaining a focus on that celebration, I really see my
patients’ ability to cope and thrive increase.”