Support group serving children whose lives are touched by cancer

LOVELAND, Colo. (Sept. 29, 2009) — McKee Medical Center and Pathways Hospice begin a new series of classes in October for children ages 7 to 16 whose lives are affected by cancer.

The Hearts of Hope education and support program is open to children in northern Colorado who have a family member who has cancer. Parent/adult groups meet at the same time and follow similar themes for discussion and activities.

The purpose of the group is to help children and their adult caregivers cope more effectively with the family experience of cancer. Special emphasis is placed on supporting children through this process.

Participants receive support through a variety of fun, meaningful and interesting group activities including discussion, art, music, improvisation and puppetry. Professionals with oncology and therapy experience help by:

• Creating a safe, helpful environment for children to express their feelings about cancer in the family and to ask for support.
• Encouraging children to experience fun, support and activities apart from illness.
• Helping adults understand how children adapt to stress in the family.
• Providing education, support and parenting tips.
• Increasing awareness of community resources for adults and children.

The cost of these sessions is free. Organizers require participation in an initial phone interview and a commitment to attend all six sessions of the program.

Classes are Mondays for six weeks, Oct. 5-Nov. 9 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. A light meal is provided. Groups meet at the Pathways Hospice Building, 305 Carpenter Road (Highway 392) in Fort Collins. For more information and to register, please call (970) 203-6700.