Bringing cancer support programs wherever they are is an unstoppable mission.
“That’s an important part of health equity is being able to offer our programs and our high-quality programs to anyone,” said Mengesha, director of Cancer Health Equity Initiative Wellness House, a Hindale-based nonprofit that provides support services. For cancer patients and their families.
In partnership with the University of Illinois Cancer Center and UIA Health Mile Square Health Center, Wellness House is offering dozens of programs at Mile Square, 1220 S. Wood Street, Chicago.
Two-time breast cancer survivor Jeanette Carter lives in Hyde Park and learned about Wellness House’s free support programs through her doctor, Deborah Manst.
“It really positively affects them and I’ve seen it myself in the clinic,” says Manst, an oncologist who provides clinical care for cancer survivors at Mile Square Health Center.
Munst urged Carter to try the Mediterranean diet, but Carter wasn’t sure what that meant. She began taking nutrition classes through the Wellness House at Mile Square Health Center.
“Once you’re in the classroom, it’s like doing these things at home and it keeps you coming back,” Carter said. “I feel good because I know I can.”
In addition to diet and exercise classes, the Wellness House offers counseling services.
Now, Wellness House Coordinator has gotten a new designation to expand beyond the Chicago area to offer online counseling sessions to cancer patients and their families in other states.
“Approximately 35 states are participating. This is one of the many ways we can increase access and show how we can reach people affected by cancer,” Mengesha said.
On June 3rdThe partnership is hosting the “Survive and Prosper: Cancer Survivorship Event.”
Mile Square Health Center showcases the many programs offered.
“It’s a really fun event, sampling our programs that we regularly offer, nutrition and exercise, support groups,” Mengesha said.
“Cancer survivors, caregivers, anyone can get involved,” Manst said.
“We have Spanish programs and English programs, so it’s really good for people, not only for the mind, but also for the body and breathing,” says yoga instructor Michelle Garcia, who teaches a weekly class at Miles. Square utility.
Shavon Miller’s mother signed them both up for Wednesday’s class. With her mother battling cancer, Shavonne says she’s stressed out as a caregiver.
She found the room and thought we should do yoga. I think it’s more relaxing, not just for you, but for both of us to do together,” Miller said.
Miller said the free class gave her a moment of peace.
“I feel great, mentally and physically very relaxed so it’s definitely worth it,” Miller said.