People helping people: Support for cancer patients and family members

Cancer support groups

It helps to know you are not alone. United Hospital sponsors a variety of support groups for cancer patients and family members that provide a caring and supportive environment in which they can share and discuss their feelings with other people in similar situations.

Brain Tumor Support Group

This group addresses the information and support needs of patients and families who have been affected by a brain tumor diagnosis. Co-sponsored with the Minnesota Epilepsy Group. Contact Kathy Maiers at 651-241-8575.

Breast Cancer Support Groups

Support groups designed specifically for women who have undergone breast cancer surgery. The group meets the first Tuesday of the month in the Bentson Family Conference Center at United Hospital from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Contact 651-241-5360 for more information.

Prostate Cancer Support Group

Support for men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Meets the first Thursday of the month in the Miller Room in the John Nasseff Medical Center on the United Hospital campus from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Call 651-241-8328 for more information.

More cancer support groups

American Cancer Society services

American Cancer Society navigator

Ali Cain, the American Cancer Society navigator at United Hospital, offers free, timely, understandable information about cancer. She can refer patients and families to programs and services offered by the American Cancer Society and other organizations.

To contact the American Cancer Society navigator at United Hospital, please call 651-241-6408.

At Home

For families caring for cancer patients at home, the American Cancer Society provides access to preselected basic durable medical equipment, including hospital beds, bath and shower devices, standard wheelchairs, commodes, walkers and canes.

Look Good . . . Feel Better

Through this service, women in active cancer treatment learn techniques to restore their self-image and cope with appearance-related side effects. Certified volunteer cosmetologists conduct group sessions or one-on-one salon visits to provide tips on makeup, skin and nail care and head coverings.

Reach to Recovery

This program provides information or rehabilitative and support services to breast cancer patients. Co-sponsored by the American Cancer Society and United Hospital Volunteer Services, the program also offers transportation to and from treatment by volunteer drivers.

United Hospital
Cancer Care Services
333 North Smith Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55102
651-241-8328
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