Supporting cancer patients in a pandemic

Cancer care, and the need for support during cancer treatment, doesn’t stop because of a pandemic.

For two decades, the Cancer Support Center in Mokena and Homewood has been a resource for cancer patients and their families.

The center offers a variety of resources, support groups, social events, seminars and workshops as well as a variety of holistic services, including classes in yoga, art and stress management, as well as cooking demonstrations by nutritionists or chefs and massage therapy.

Many of these programs are now offered virtually during the pandemic. Here are a few highlights for next week.

To view even more programs and resources, visit cancersupportcenter.org.

Feb. 15

• Virtual Cooking with Chef Marcia – 10:30 a.m. to noon. Risotto is the perfect “comfort” food to enjoy this winter. Chef Marcia will show how simple it is to make along with other rice dishes. Not eating many carbs? She will use cauliflower instead of rice and your family will never know the difference. To register, visit cancersupportcenter.org.

Feb. 16

• Virtual Cancer Survivor Support Group – 10 to 11 a.m. For anyone with a cancer diagnosis, weekly groups are designed to help you deal with cancer treatment, stress and emotional coping. For information, call 708-798-9171 with any questions. To register, visit cancersupportcenter.org.

• Virtual Gentle Yoga with Karen – 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. To register, visit cancersupportcenter.org.

• What’s for Dinner? Meal Planning Made Simple – 1 to 2:30 p.m. Explore cooking two to three different meals by using the same ingredients to simplify the process Discuss simple strategies to make cooking fun and simple. To register, visit cancersupportcenter.org.

• Moves that Matter – 2:30 to 3:15 p.m. This movement class works on releasing tension, increasing flexibility and improving posture. Helpful with neuropathy. To register, visit cancersupportcenter.org.

• Virtual Caregiver Networking Group – 5 to 6 p.m. Open to family members or friends caring for someone with cancer. For information, call 708-478-3529. To register, visit cancersupportcenter.org.

Feb. 17

• Virtual Open Art Studio – 2 to 3:30 p.m. Work on any art project you choose and connect with others. To register, visit cancersupportcenter.org.

Feb. 18

• Virtual Chair Yoga with Cecily – 2 to 3 p.m. To register, visit cancersupportcenter.org.

Feb. 20

• Say Yes to Wellness – 9 to 11 a.m. A morning of self-care. This program will begin with an interactive workshop on how to increase happiness and reduce stress followed by a virtual practice of gentle chair yoga and meditation. To register, visit cancersupportcenter.org.