LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth |
Support Group for Lesbians with Cancer |
The Wellness Community and the Lesbian Health Initiative (LeHI) have announced the formation of a support group for lesbians with cancer. This support group will offer lesbians with cancer the opportunity to address issues specific to lesbians as well as those issues that all people with cancer may face. Historically, lesbians have shied away from regular physical exams and other preventative care and are more likely to discover illnesses, including cancer, in later and more dangerous stages than their heterosexual peers. In addition, lesbians sometimes dont get the emotional and social support that everyone needs in this type of situation, because some practitioners dont recognize or dont value their relationships, and because lesbians are often estranged from their families of origin. The support group, which will be facilitated by a licensed mental health professional, will meet twice each month, tentatively beginning in March. Meetings will be held at the Wellness Community office in the Community Service Building in downtown Wilmington. LeHI is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the physical and emotional well being of lesbians in Delaware through education, outreach, referral, and advocacy. The Wellness Community is a free program of hope, learning, and friendship for people with cancer and their families. The Wellness Community offers support groups, stress reduction programs, informational and educational workshops, and community activities. For more information, please call LeHI at 302-652-8786 or Sean Hebbel at the Wellness Community at 302-656-8410. |
LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 9, No. 1, February 5, 1999 |