Support Groups
Support groups have been proven to be an important component of wellness. In the last decade, research has shown that membership in groups improves overall quality of life. Psychological distress is reduced with ongoing participation. Groups provide in informal and supportive atmosphere in which to share common treatment experiences, coping strategies and feelings.
At the Dance Center there are three groups, each with a different focus. The groups seek to provide education and information about the disease along with a forum for open discussion. Patients may attend more than one group. Caregivers, family members, and significant others are welcome (and are encouraged) to attend.
The Patient & Family Support Group - the group is open to patients who have been diagnosed with cancer of the head and neck, their family members and significant others. The group is co-led by the Center's Social Worker and Head & Neck Rehabilitation Nurse in an effort to provide a supportive atmosphere in which to share feelings associated with your diagnosis. All meetings are held in the Physician's Pavilion East Conference Center on the third floor (main floor) of Physician's Pavilion East at the Greater Baltimore Medical Center. Dress is comfortable and casual, and beverages are served. Meetings are the third Tuesday of every month from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The Laryngectomee Interest Group - the purpose of this group is to provide new information and options regarding post-laryngectomy rehabilitation - and to share ideas and experiences with others. The group is open to patients, spouses and significant others. The group is led by a Speech-Language Pathologist and Social Worker. All meetings are held in the Physician's Pavilion East Conference Center on the third floor (main floor) of Physician's Pavilion East at the Greater Baltimore Medical Center. Dress is comfortable and casual, and beverages are served. Meetings are the first Tuesday of each month from 12 noon to 1 p.m.
The Brizel Discussion Group- This group is open to patients with head & neck cancers who have undergone the "Brizel Protocol," which involves chemotherapy together with radiation therapy twice a day. The purpose of this group is to provide a discussion forum to share treatment and recovery experiences with other patients, their families, physicians, and members of your Dance Center team. Meetings are held three times a year, dates and locations vary.
If you would like to talk to someone about any of our support groups, or to be added to our support group mailing list, please call 443-849-2980 or send email.
