Scripps Cancer Center to Host Breast Cancer Support Group Oct. 22

October is national breast cancer awareness month and Scripps Cancer Center will offer a free support group Wednesday, Oct. 22 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. The virtual event will give participants a safe space to find emotional support, understanding, new coping skills and encouragement.

The group is open to newly diagnosed patients and those going through or having completed breast cancer treatment. Group members will share experiences, knowledge, hopes, fears and strengths in a relaxed and confidential setting. Participants will meet virtually through Microsoft Teams and phone. Advance registration is required. To register for this support group, call 760-492-5899 or email vestevich.jeanne@scrippshealth.org.

Scripps Cancer Center offers various cancer patient support services, programs and resources. These include genetic counseling; nutrition services; palliative care; nurse navigation; social worker assistance; support groups for various cancer types; physical therapy services, including voice and swallowing therapy; lymphedema therapy; balance and vestibular rehabilitation; and exercise programs.

Scripps Cancer Center also offers three dedicated breast care centers for breast cancer screening, diagnosis and support services. It offers access to integrative therapies specifically for cancer patients, including yoga, meditation, acupuncture, massage and more at the Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine.

Scripps takes a collaborative, patient-centered approach to cancer care. It organizes physicians in multidisciplinary teams that are subspecialized by cancer type. Patients are seen in multidisciplinary clinics, where they meet with their medical oncologist, radiation oncologist and surgeon – an approach that provides optimal communication in developing an individualized treatment plan. Scripps Cancer Center combines proven medical expertise with the latest technology and research advancements to diagnose and treat nearly every type of adult cancer.

Scripps has a wide variety of cancer care facilities located across San Diego County. This includes two regional free-standing cancer centers, with infusion clinic services, advanced radiation therapy and surgical procedure rooms. The program also offers a variety of cancer specialty centers, including a blood and marrow transplant center; three breast care centers; a Mohs surgery and dermatologic oncology center; and oncology care at its five acute-care hospital campuses.

It also offers a regional network of cancer care providers spread across multiple Scripps Clinic locations, which provide cancer screening and prevention, diagnostic services, surgery and individualized chemotherapy and immunotherapy services.