Let's Talk Cancer

Episode 12: How to Foster Support during Cancer Care? *special focus on single/widowed/divorced patients

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This episode talks with Lauren Shea, MSW, a social worker and cancer survivor herself who unpacks the types of supportive services available to patients with a special focus on fostering support for patients who are single, widowed or divorced.

Specifically we discuss:

  • What is Supportive care?

    • Whole person care- care that not only treats the cancer but also improves the quality of life of the person who has cancer

    • Including the physical, psychological, social and spiritual health of a patient

    • What are supportive care services?

      • Child life specialists, Social workers, Psychologists, Spiritual counseling, Social Workers, Positive image center (Cosmetologists can walk through changes in appearance), Integrative oncologists, Meditation classes

      • What are the benefits of supportive care services?

        • Identifying your values as a patient and improving communication with the medical team

        • Education and Support throughout the illness

        • How to get connected to supportive care services?

          • Ask your oncologist or primary care doctor for a referral

            • Referral to Social Work is a good first step and they can connect a patient to many different resources available at that hospital

            • Ask around- “What Supportive Care Services are available here?”

            • What specific services help patients who are single, widowed, divorced?

              • Transportation services (Disability benefits, Go Go Grandma, ask your SW!)

              • Caregiving Support (In-Home Supportive Services, understanding your support network)

              • Psychosocial support- see below

              • What resources are available for patients?

                • American Cancer Society- Hotline

                • Cancer Support Community - Support Groups, Individual Therapy, Financial Assistance

                • 2-1-1: Can get access to local resources - food, housing instability

                • Epic Experience- free Cancer Camp in Colorado

                • Adolescent and Young Adult Resources

                  • Stupid Cancer Conference

                  • First Descents - Adventure Therapy for age 18-39 years old

                    • ...more
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                    Let's Talk CancerBy Jordyn Silverstein, MD