This is not your parents' support group.

In films and on t.v. you see a support group depicted as a sober meeting where people with "problems" can sit and talk about themselves, and their challenges, and get some help from others going through the same kinds of things. They typically involve coffee in styrofoam cups and cold pastry. These kinds of depictions (like this one, from the 1979 movie "Starting Over") are not always usually not very flattering, right? Kind of makes the viewer think "there's a couple of hours of their lives they won't get back."

So, it's understandable that when a medical professional or concerned friend/loved one suggests to a cancer patient or survivor that joining a support group might be a good idea, there is a fairly sizeable segment of society who might say "I don't think so!" But there is actually a lot of research out there that shows that spending time with a group of fellow patients and survivors is very beneficial to one's mental and physical well-being.

Because of that perceived stigma attached to groups - especially in the eyes of younger people - the number of online support groups popping up across the country has been growing. They don't require sitting in a circle, or wearing a "Hi, my name is__________" sticker, and uncomfortable discussions of symptoms, side-effects, and the like. In fact, for these groups, you don't even have to get dressed! And because we are just cool like that, we are jumping on this trend and have put together a group that is located on Facebook to help our younger patients and survivors (i.e. 18-45 year olds) connect with one another, ask questions, and make it what they think a support group should be.

Now, before you ask - we'll just make sure it's clear that this group is completely confidential! Membership info won't show up on group or page lists or in activity feeds on member's profiles. Also, the only way to join is to send a note to the coordinator, who will then add people to the group. Easy, confidential, and available 24/7 at the tip of your fingers. What more could you ask for?? You can even provide whatever snacks you feel are appropriate! (That may be our favorite part.)

If you're interested in learning more about this new way to get connected with other people who are dealing with cancer treatments or survivorship, contact Van Bivens at Hope Cancer Resources at 479-361-5847 or van.bivens@hopecancerresources.org. Hope to not see you there!