Friday, June 5, 2009

TWC-CNJ Launches Cancer Transitions - Moving Beyond Treatment " program at Survivors Day Celebration

Last night Nick and I spent time at the Bridgewater Manor ( the location of my daughter Theresa's wedding reception last year.) . It was the site of the Wellness Community of Central NJ's Survivor's Day Celebration and marked the Launch of the "Cancer Transitions - Moving Beyond Treatment" program.

"Cancer Transitions" is a free 2 1/2 hour , six-week program designed to help cancer survivors make the transition from active treatment to post-treatment care. The Wellness Community has worked closely with the Lance Armstrong Foundation for the last 3 years to create, pilot and implement this program. Sanofi-aventis US will be providing funding for the program throughout the United States. It just so happens that sanofi-aventis is located just down the road (Route 202-206) from the Wellness Community of Central NJ. We all got a taste of the program through a short introduction by four speakers.

The night also included a keynote speech by Audrey Vitolins who spoke on "Celebrating the Beat of Significance"; Mark Wood and the "Healing Power of Drums"( I love drumming) and the awarding of the Spirit of Courage Award to Deborah Rochon and Spirit of Caring Award to Florence Kelly. A number of other community groups such as NOCC, ACS, Cancer Hope Network, etc. provided information during the registration period. The night concluded with the distribution of Red roses to survivors and yellow roses to caregivers.

I have participated in Wellness Community- Central NJ gynecological cancer networking group for over 2 years now. I've also attended a number of other workshops and classes. Walking in the door of that small white building in Plukemin is like going in to your best friend's home. You always feel welcome and comfortable enough to share your joys, your concerns and your pains. Thank you to Eunice, Ellen, Karen, Patty and all your volunteers for giving us a place to do just that.

Livestrong

Dee

Every Day is a Blessing!

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