Support Services

Support Groups are often one of the best ways that participants at Waterford Place garner strength and wisdom. Support Groups at Waterford Place are safe spaces for participants to share information while also receiving support in managing difficult experiences and celebrating successes along the way.

We are pleased to offer the following support groups.  

Online Support Groups

Please register for our online support groups.  For more information about these programs, please email omar.ramos@waterfordcrc.com or call (331) 301-5280.

All Cancer Support Group
Second Wednesdays: January 8. February 12 and March 12 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The Cancer Support group provides a space for individuals affected by cancer to converse, bond and gain insights from one another, regardless of their cancer type. This supportive environment nurtures resilience and strength among survivors.

Aurora Multiple Myeloma Networking Group (Virtual Only)
First Wednesdays: February 5 and March 5 • 6 to 8 p.m.
Affiliated with the International Myeloma Foundation, this group is open to those diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma as well as their loved ones. Light refreshments will be provided. To sign up, please call Valarie Traynham, group leader, at aurora@IMFsupport.org or (630) 423-6510.

Breast FRIENDs (First Resource in Experiencing and Navigating a Diagnosis)
Third Mondays: February 17 and March 17 • 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Facilitated by a licensed professional counselor, Breast FRIENDs is for anyone experiencing a breast cancer diagnosis, regardless of treatment type or stage. This informal group provides support and a safe place to share experiences, successes and ongoing challenges.

Survivorship Support Group
Third Mondays: February 17 and March 17 • 6:30 to 8 p.m.
This group is for those who have completed treatment and are looking for support as they transition into life after treatment. The informal group provides a safe space to share experiences, successes and ongoing challenges for all persons living through and beyond cancer.

Family and Caregiver Networking Group
Second Wednesdays: January 8, February 12 and March 12 • 6:30 to 8 p.m.
In this group, family, friends and caregivers of cancer patients will receive support for themselves and network with others in similar circumstances. The group is facilitated by a licensed social worker.

Soul Tending and Support Group
First Thursdays: January 2, February 6 and March 6  • 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Soul Tending and Support is a cancer support group related to faith where healing and meaning can be found in the cancer experience. In a supportive and confidential meeting space, you may share and hear how faith and reliance on a higher power can help in coping with cancer. Facilitated by a social worker or chaplain.

Gyne SISTERs (Sharing Inspiration and Support Through Education and Resources)
Second Thursdays:  January 9, February 13 and March 13 • 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Open to those who have had a gynecological cancer diagnosis, Gyne SISTERs is co-facilitated by a licensed social worker and a registered nurse.

Fresh Start for Men Facing Cancer
Saturday, January 25 • 4 to 7 p.m.
Waterford Place Cancer Resource Center

Kick off the new year with good food, good company and a fresh perspective at our Fresh Start gathering! This event will allow men facing cancer to connect, share stories and find motivation for the year ahead. Enjoy a variety of chili dishes and bring your own to share as we build a supportive community together.

Men’s Group
Fourth Tuesdays: January 9, February 13 and March 13 • 6:30 to 8 p.m.
For men who have had a cancer diagnosis, this informal group provides support and a safe place to share experiences, successes and ongoing challenges. A light dinner will be provided.

Man Up to Cancer at Waterford Place (Virtual Only)
Second Tuesday via Zoom: January 14, February 11 and March 11 • 6:30 to 8 p.m.
The Man Up to Cancer Support Group addresses the common problem of men feeling isolated in dealing with cancer and encourages them to embrace support and community. Through monthly virtual meetings, the group offers a safe and welcoming space for men of all backgrounds and cancer experiences to connect, share, and support each other through their cancer journeys.

Counseling

Oncology-Focused, Short-Term Counseling
By Appointment Only
Short-term counseling is to address cancer-related issues is available to those diagnosed with cancer and their families. Up to five sessions are provided to address concerns such as sadness, worries, communication, returning to work, body-esteem and other similar issues as they relate to a cancer diagnosis.

Grief Counseling
By Appointment Only, provided through a partnership with Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care of Illinois.
For many, the grief experience that results from the death of a loved one can generate a myriad of feelings, confusion and questions. Talking with a bereavement specialist one-on-one about this experience can assist in the coping process.