• Written by: Jennifer Whitson
When walking a cancer journey it is not uncommon to feel very alone. Even if you have a support system of family and friends, if they haven’t lived through cancer themselves, it can be hard to share things with people.
Community support is very important when going through cancer as a patient or caregiver. We are never meant to go through a cancer journey alone. By “community” I mean your “cancer community.”
We need to have the support of others to truly thrive on our journey. There can be so much loss and there can also be gifts with cancer. A cancer support group can be a gift.
The power of community with cancer support groups is life-changing and honestly something I personally, never saw myself participating in—now I lead the Cancer Can’t support groups. I have experienced personally and see firsthand the life changing powerful impact these groups can bring to patients and caregivers!
When I went through my initial 6 months of treatment for Aggressive Breast Cancer, I joined a support group because others around me were moving on which is a natural process for them, but I found myself still grieving while still fighting an internal struggle about what was happening and had happened to me. I was getting stronger; my hair was growing back but I needed a place where I could process what had happened to me. I felt betrayed by cancer because I was in optimal health running 5-6 days a week, eating very clean, gluten free dairy free low sugar. So, I was shocked when my diagnosis arrived. You see cancer isn’t like a broken leg where you heal and then are just all better. No, for me it was an ongoing process, I now had to navigate the world with the effects of cancer and didn’t look like I had cancer anymore.
The support group helped me realize I was not alone, as others around me had similar feelings, despite their different experiences with cancer. So, when Cancer Can’t approached me to lead and build their support groups, I knew I had to say yes. We could hold space for the patients and caregivers of cancer and know it would further help our community. Whether you are a patient or caregiver, cancer is the common denominator, and sometimes we need community support to navigate it. So, we started the groups in May of 2024. Let me tell you they have exceeded our expectations. Patients have been able to support one another in a way that feels so safe and healthy. Caregivers, who also play a vital role in care, but also experience often just as much emotional toll as a firsthand patient, can support each other. They extend an empathy of what it takes to watch a loved one or friend truly suffer or navigate their cancer journey.
Tears are welcome, laughter is welcome, and both do show up in the group. What happens in a group is space is held for a human being facing cancer, a disease no one should have to face but nonetheless they are. Their feelings are real, raw and true. They are quite courageous in my book too for facing the pain and taking a step towards healing.
What I have seen as a leader is people connect with one another. No cancer journey is the same, no care giving journey is the same, but they share a bond of what it takes to battle cancer. They become a community.
I see participants come into the group sad, angry, excited, downright nervous and by the time they leave group they feel peace and not alone. I often see a smile on their face, hugs given to one another. They often say I am glad I came and walked through the door. They say I feel as though I am not alone. I don’t feel empty anymore. On the rare occasion that I just sit back, it is as if I am not leading, but watching incredible humans support one another. It is during these times that I feel less angry or sad at cancer and the devastating effects I see it have on the participants. I feel honored to lead and I find myself realizing— with each group—that in that moment, we are kicking cancer right where it counts. For a few moments, we are winning and thriving, and we are knowing we are not alone in cancer one support group at a time!
If you are in the greater Spokane area and feel alone as you battle cancer —whether you're a patient or a caregiver —and think it might be nice to talk to someone or have a community that understands what you are going through, I invite you to join us by registering below. I would love to meet you.
About the Author:
Jennifer Whitson is a cancer survivor, health and financial mentor, certified group facilitator, speaker, writer and classically trained pianist. She shares hope and inspiration through her personal healing journey, empowering others to find their voice and path to wellness. Known for her empathy, encouragement, and patient spirit, Jennifer walks alongside those seeking healing in all its forms. Jennifer has volunteered with Cancer Can't since 2015. She is also a nature enthusiast who enjoys reading, jogging, hiking, kayaking, and gardening right here in Spokane.
