Prince George., B.C. – Prince George is one of four communities that will be part of a pilot project for family members of cancer survivors.

The “Empower Program” will start October 16^th.  

 

"People with cancer often struggle with adjustment after completing treatment, and this also occurs for family members who support them," said Tasha Ahlstrom, regional oncology social worker with Northern Health. "Empower is an opportunity for both the cancer survivor and the family member who has been caring for them to engage in programming to assist with the difficult adjustment phase after cancer treatment is completed."

 

It is a three part program for family, as well as friends, who have provided support for a loved one who has survived cancer. The free sessions include information on survivorship after treatment, medical management and emotional well-being. The Regional Cancer Care Unit at the University Hospital of Northern BC is offering the program through funding secured by the BC Cancer Agency from the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer. Empower was developed under a cooperative agreement between the BC Cancer Agency and the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer.

 

The Empower program will start at the same time as a returning support program, Cancer Transitions, a workshop series for cancer survivors.