1. Cancer Support Community California (CSC)
- Website: https://www.cancersupportcommunity.org
- Locations: Multiple locations across California, including Los Angeles, Pasadena, and Orange County.
- Services: Offers a variety of free programs for cancer patients and their families, including support groups, counseling, educational workshops, and social activities. The support groups are available for both patients and their caregivers.
- Special Programs: They offer programs tailored for specific types of cancer, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, and more.
2. American Cancer Society (ACS) – California Division
- Website: https://www.cancer.org
- Locations: Multiple locations across California.
- Services: ACS offers support groups, information on cancer treatment, resources for financial assistance, and a helpline for both patients and their families. They also host programs like "Look Good Feel Better" and offer transportation and lodging assistance.
- Support Groups: Cancer support groups are available online and in-person, including for specific types of cancer such as breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and leukemia.
3. WeSPARK Cancer Support Center
- Website: https://www.wespark.org
- Location: Encino, California (Greater Los Angeles Area).
- Services: Offers free support groups for cancer patients, survivors, and their families. They provide services including individual counseling, creative arts therapy, wellness programs (yoga, meditation), and group support. They also offer grief counseling for families and friends.
- Special Programs: They have support groups for specific needs, such as for caregivers and for different stages of cancer.
4. Sharsheret
- Website: https://www.sharsheret.org
- Location: Nationwide, with services available in California.
- Services: Provides support specifically for Jewish women and families dealing with breast cancer and ovarian cancer. They offer peer support, resources, educational programs, and a range of online and in-person support groups.
- Support Programs: Sharsheret offers programs on survivorship, risk-reduction, and emotional support for cancer patients and their families.
5. Los Angeles Cancer Network (LACN)
- Website: https://www.lacancernetwork.org
- Location: Los Angeles area.
- Services: Offers support groups, educational workshops, and resources for cancer patients, survivors, and families. LACN also connects individuals with a network of healthcare providers and cancer specialists.
- Support Groups: They provide various cancer-specific support groups, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, and other common cancers.
6. UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center
- Website: https://cancer.ucla.edu
- Location: Los Angeles, CA.
- Services: Provides a variety of cancer support programs for patients and families, including support groups, educational sessions, and family counseling. They offer specialized programs for different cancer types and also focus on both emotional and physical well-being.
- Support Groups: They offer group therapy, emotional support groups for caregivers, and patient-centered programs for a wide range of cancer diagnoses.
7. San Francisco Cancer Support Group
- Website: https://www.cancersupport.net
- Location: San Francisco, CA.
- Services: Provides support groups for cancer patients and their families, offering a combination of emotional support and practical guidance through diagnosis and treatment. The center also offers complementary therapies, including nutrition counseling, massage therapy, and wellness programs.
- Support Groups: Specific groups for different types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, and general cancer support.
8. Stanford Cancer Institute - Supportive Care Services
- Website: https://cancer.stanford.edu
- Location: Stanford, CA.
- Services: Provides comprehensive support services for cancer patients and their families, including support groups, counseling, and complementary therapies. Stanford offers groups for caregivers, cancer patients, and grief support for those who have lost loved ones to cancer.
- Support Groups: They offer groups for various cancer types and stages, as well as for caregivers and families.
9. The Wellness Community - Orange County (now part of the Cancer Support Community)
- Website: https://www.cancersupportco.org
- Location: Irvine, CA (Orange County area).
- Services: Offers free emotional support, social activities, educational resources, and support groups for cancer patients and their families. They have a variety of programs that focus on both the emotional and physical aspects of cancer care.
- Support Groups: Group sessions for cancer patients, survivors, and their families, as well as specialized support for caregivers.
10. Bayside Cancer Support Group
- Website: https://www.baysidecancersupport.org
- Location: San Diego, CA.
- Services: Offers a range of support services for cancer patients and their families, including group therapy, individual counseling, educational workshops, and wellness programs.
- Support Groups: Provides both general cancer support groups and cancer-specific groups, such as those for breast cancer, colon cancer, and others.
11. American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) - California Chapters
- Website: https://www.abta.org
- Location: Various locations in California.
- Services: Provides education, resources, and support for patients and families affected by brain tumors. ABTA offers support groups, webinars, and resources for navigating the challenges associated with brain cancer.
- Support Groups: Specific groups for brain tumor patients, caregivers, and loved ones, as well as a national network for remote support.
12. Breast Cancer Connections (BCC)
- Website: https://www.breastcancerconnections.org
- Location: Palo Alto, CA.
- Services: Provides free support services, including emotional support, educational resources, and financial assistance for breast cancer patients and their families.
- Support Groups: BCC offers support groups specifically for breast cancer patients, including newly diagnosed groups, survivor groups, and caregiver support.
13. The Cancer Support Center of Santa Barbara
- Website: https://www.cancersupportsb.org
- Location: Santa Barbara, CA.
- Services: Offers support groups, individual counseling, wellness programs, and educational seminars. The center provides a variety of free programs to support patients and their families during all stages of cancer treatment and recovery.
- Support Groups: Offers groups for cancer patients, caregivers, and family members, with a focus on emotional well-being and coping strategies.
14. Northern California Cancer Support (NCCS)
- Website: https://www.nccancer.org
- Location: Oakland, CA.
- Services: Provides support groups, financial assistance, and education for cancer patients and their families in the Northern California area. They offer emotional and practical support throughout cancer treatment.
- Support Groups: Specific groups for cancer patients and caregivers, with a focus on emotional healing, stress management, and practical resources.
Conclusion:
These cancer support groups across California offer invaluable services to help patients and their families cope with the emotional, financial, and social challenges that come with cancer. They provide a sense of community, shared experience, and essential resources that can improve the quality of life for those affected by cancer. Contact each group to learn more about their programs and find a support group that best meets your needs.
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