One for the books: Cancer group offers conversation, camaraderie – and compassion

INDIANAPOLIS – A diagnosis of cancer can leave a person feeling as if he or she is walking a lonely road. But a newly formed cancer support book club helps patients learn from those who have traveled a similar path.

This newly formed cancer support book club is open to any cancer patient, caregiver or those affected by cancer. Participants of this book club choose and read books written by cancer survivors, or those who have passed.

The group meets the third Thursday of each month from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The next book club will meet Thursday, Dec. 17. Meetings are held at 911 East 86th St., Suite 40, Indianapolis, directly across the parking lot from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society offices.

Participants are asked to commit time to the reading group, as this club largely depends on participant involvement. Groups will decide which books they want to read at future meetings.

Barbra Cunningham, R.N., and Stephanie Costley, M.S.W., will lead the discussions and offer medical and emotional feedback. Ample time will be provided for participants’ questions and discussion; light refreshments are served.

Enrollment is limited to 12 persons. To register, call Claire Kammen, at 317-726-2275, extension 217.

The program is co-sponsored by the Indiana Blood and Marrow Transplantation unit at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers and The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

More information about the Indiana Blood and Marrow Transplantion unit at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers can be found at www.ibmtindy.com.