Find the Help You Need
Sometimes, receiving cancer treatment can be complicated by practical issues. At Minnesota Oncology we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.
We have partnered with findhelp, America’s leading social care network, to connect you with resources, including financial assistance, transportation to your appointments, food pantries, childcare, counseling services, and more.
Search on your own at usoncology.findhelp.com to find help in your community.
Or let us help you find the assistance you need. Contact us at (844) 317-4673 and ask to speak with one of our social workers.
Local Support Groups
Bladder Cancer Support Group- meeting virtually
When: 3rd Thursday of the month
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Contact: Casey Pratt- 612-626-0697 or cpratt@umn.edu for link to the group
Bone Marrow Transplant Support Group- meeting virtually
A support group facilitated by the University of Minnesota Fairview for patients following a bone marrow transplantation.
When: First Tuesday of each month- 10-11 a.m.
Third Tuesday of each month- 6-7 p.m.
Contact the BMT Program at 612-273-2800 option 1 to speak to one of our BMT social workers if you would like to attend the group or need more information.
Brain Tumor Support Group
2nd Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:00. We meet via Zoom. Please contact Denise Shannon at 651.254-9267 for more information or to get on our mailing list. This is a group for patients and their loved ones.
M Health Fairview Brain Tumor Support Group
Our brain tumor support group promotes education and provides emotional and social support to patients, families and caregivers affected by primary brain and central nervous system cancer. It is a safe place to share experiences, ask questions, and support one another. Quarterly, in lieu of the support group, we will host education sessions led by M Health Fairview providers covering a variety of topics. Attendees are welcome to come together or independently.
The brain tumor support group meets virtually the 4th Monday of each month from 6:00 pm -7:00 pm
There is no need to sign up to attend the support group, but if you have questions or would like to be placed on the email distribution list, please contact Katie Pearson at kpearson11@umphysicians.umn.edu.
Virginia Piper Cancer Institute Metastatic Breast Cancer Support Group- Meeting virtually
When: 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month
Time: 10:30-12 p.m.
If you would like to attend the virtual group, please register by:
Phone: Beth Johnson, 763-236-6061 or
Email: beth.johnson@allina.com
Please include your name, email address, home address and phone number
American Cancer Society Reach to Recovery
The American Cancer Society Reach to Recovery program connects people facing breast cancer – from diagnosis through survivorship- with trained volunteers who are breast cancer survivors.
Through their website and app, you can create an online profile and match with a volunteer who has experienced a similar type of breast cancer, stage, and treatment.
Volunteers do not provide medical advice. This is a free program.
Patients can enroll in the program via the website. https://reach.cancer.org/
The Firefly Sisterhood
The Firefly Sisterhood provides one-to -one social and emotional support to women who have been impacted by a breast cancer diagnosis. We are founded and based in the Twin Cities, MN while most of our matches are within the Twin Cities, Greater MN, and Western Wisconsin, we can support women from coast to coast.
The Firefly Sisterhood support services are free and delivered at the time of diagnosis, during treatment, and into survivorship.
https://www.fireflysisterhood.org/getsupport/
Virginia Piper Cancer Institute Virtual Breast Cancer Support Group
When: 3rd Monday of every month
Time: 5-6:30 p.m.
If you would like to join the virtual group, please register by:
Email: alicea.andrson@allina.com or Kristen.eckman@allina.com
Please include your name, email address, and telephone number
Virginia Piper Cancer Institute Virtual Breast Cancer Support Group
When: 1st Tuesday of the Month
Time: 4-5:30 p.m.
If you would like to join the virtual group, please register by:
Phone: Ali Cain, 651-241-6408 or
Email: alicia.cain@allina.com
Fairview Ridges Beast Cancer Support Group- meeting via Microsoft teams
When: Third Thursday of each month
Time: 5:15 pm – 6:15 p.m.
Contact Darla Churness via email to register and receive link to the group, dchurnel@fairview.org
Together in Transition Metastatic Breast Cancer Support Group- meeting virtually
When: 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month
Time: 12-1:30 p.m.
Contact melissa.peitz@usoncology.com for link to join the group.
Gilda’s Club of the Twin Cities Support Groups and Classes
Classes/groups meeting in person and virtually
Club house located at 10560 Wayzata Boulevard Minnetonka, MN 55305
www.gildasclubstwincities.org
Phone: 612-227-2147
Contact Gilda’s Club to complete intake and determine available spots in groups
4th Angel Caregiver Mentor Program
The 4th Angel Mentoring Program offers free, one-on-one, confidential outreach and support from someone who has successfully made the same journey you are about to begin- the journey towards recovery. This specially trained volunteer and cancer survivor- your 4th Angel – is someone who will talk and listen in a supportive setting. The 4th Angel Mentoring Program is telephone based, so you can be connected with an angel anywhere in the country.
Go to http://4thangel.org to request a Mentor.
Imerman’s Angels
Imerman’s Angels partners individuals seeking cancer support with a “Mentor Angel.” These one-on-one relationships inspire hope and offer the chance to ask personal questions and receive support from someone who is uniquely familiar with the experience. Mentor Angels can lend support and empathy while helping cancer fighters and caregivers navigate the system, determine their options and create their own support systems. Support is also provided to those who have lost someone to cancer and is looking to speak to someone who has lost someone to cancer.
A Breath of Hope Companionship Program for Lung Cancer Patients
HOPE companionship volunteers have been through the cancer journey and simply want to help others. They provide peer-to peer companionship visits and a friendly ear to lung cancer survivors and their caregiver during the emotional roller coaster of a lung cancer diagnosis.
To learn more about ABOH Services, visit abreathofhope.org or call 952-456-2845
Lung Cancer:2nd Thursday of the month, 10-11:30. We meet via Zoom. Please contact MJ at Breath of Hope Lung Foundation (mj@abreathofhope.org) to get on our mailing list and receive the Zoom Invites. Call Denise Shannon at 651.254-9267 with questions. This is a group for patients and their loved ones.
Jack’s Caregiver Coalition
A support group/program specifically for male caregivers, offering one-on-one support as well as respite events.
Go to https://www.jackscaregiverco.org/ to learn more.
Jack’s Caregiver Klatch
A coed caregiver support program. Limited space, RSVP! Food and drink provided.
When: First Thursday of the month
Time: 6-7:30 p.m.
Where: Common Roots Café, 2558 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55405
Contact: contactus@jackscaregiverco.org
Prince of Peace Caregiver Support Group (partnership with DARTS)
When: Third and Fourth Wednesday of the month
Time: 1-2 pm
Where: Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 13801 Fairview Drive, Burnsville, MN 55337
Contact Vicki Patterson at 651-373-6786 for more information
C.A.R.S. Colon, Anal, Rectal Support Group- meeting virtually and in person
Bringing together individuals who are going through diagnosis, treatment and life after colon, anal or rectal cancer in a safe welcoming environment. This group focuses on education, sharing time and support for patients, caregivers and family members.
Date: 3rd Thursday of the Month
Time: 5:30-6:30 pm
Place: Minnesota Oncology Lobby, 6545 France Ave South, Suite 210, Edina,MN 55435
Contact: Kim Ness- 952-928-2907, kim.ness@usoncology.com
Lynch Syndrome Support Group
People living with Lynch syndrome are asked to accept a lot: higher risk of cancer, frequent cancer screenings, and no “magic fix” for the disease-causing genetic variants we inherit. It is normal to have a mixed emotions when undergoing surveillance and treatment. Whether you are living with Lynch Syndrome or love someone with Lynch syndrome, come and join us for support. If you would lie to join this group, please email: kpearson11@umphysicians.umn.edu with your interest.
Topics are based on group interest, so bring your questions and ideas.
When: fourth Wednesday of every month
Time: 7-8 p.m.
Where: We meet virtually on Microsoft Teams. Join our email distribution list to receive the meeting link.
Facilitators:
Ellen LaFontaine, MSW, LMSW Clinical Social Worker Adult Oncology
Nicole Marcouiller, MSW, LICSW Clinical Social Worker Adult Oncology
General Cancer Support Group- meeting virtually
When: 3rd Saturday of the month
Time: 10-11:30 a.m.
Contact Yanchy at revylacska@baldwin-telecom.net to receive a link for this group.
Come join this holistic support group that addresses body, mind and spirit through personal sharing, prayer, stories, poems, gentle movement (qigong), music, and guided meditation to hep you through this trying part of life’s journey.
Facilitator: Rev. Yanchy Lacska, Ph.D., LC. Yanchy is a pastoral counselor with advanced degrees in psychology and theology and a post-graduate certificate in natural wellness. He is an ordained clergy member of the Lindisfarne Community, an ecumenical community in the Anglo-Celtic tradition.
Prayer for the Cure: A Ministry to Those Facing Cancer
Contact person is: Kelli Walia: kelliw@hosannalc.org
Gynecologic Oncology Support Group
For women who have been diagnosed with a Gynecologic Cancer. Come join us for an open dialogue about the challenges and feelings surrounding the diagnosis and treatments. Groups will be held on the second Wednesday of every month from noon-1:00 p.m. We invite you to bring your questions and ideas to connect with other women who understand what you are going through.
Questions? There is no need to sign up or RSVP, but please reach out with any questions or if you would like to be added to the email distribution list at Nicole.marcouiller@fairview.org
Facilitator:
Nicole Marcouiller, MSW, LICSW
Clinical Social Worker, Adult Oncology
Finding Your Way Through Cancer Treatment
Meeting in person and virtually- email sent out each week notifying group if meeting in person or virtually
When: Every Thursday of the month
Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Maplewood Cancer Center Conference Room, 1580 Beam Ave, Maplewood, MN 55109
Contact: Shannon Lee, LPN at Shannon.lee@usoncology.com, Rita, RN at rita.monsour@usoncology.com
Virginia Piper Gynecological Cancer Support Group- meeting virtually
When: 2nd Tuesday of the month
Time: 4-5:30 p.m.
If you would like to attend the virtual group, please register by:
Email: alicia.cain@allina.com or Phone: 651-241-6408
Ovarian Cancer Support Groups- Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance
MOCA organizes support groups to meet the needs of those impacted by ovarian cancer. All support programs are free, and new members are always welcome. 2022 support groups are currently scheduled to meet virtually. For meeting links, one-one support or more information, contact MOCA Community Support Program Manager Stefanie Gliniany at sgliniany@mnovarian.org or (612) 584-3550.
MOCA Connections- Night
We invite women diagnosed with ovarian cancer and their loved ones to join us to connect with each other, share information and gain support. Join us for our evening meeting the 3rd Thursday of each month from 6-7:30 p.m. Contact sgliniany@mnovarian.org for meeting links and information.
MOCA Connections Day
Survivors, loved ones and caregivers are invited t join s for MOCA Connections Day group. Join us the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 10-1130 a.m. Contact sgliniany@mnovarian.org for meeting links and information.
Care in the Community
MOCA offers an extra level of support with our Care in the Community virtual offering. Can’t make it to a MOCA Connections meeting or need some extra support? MOCA Community Support Program Manager Stefanie Gliniany is available to connect via phone, email, and video conference. Contact sgliniany@mnovarian.org to schedule.
Young Survivor Network
The members of this group are women with a gynecologic cancer diagnosis who range in age from teens to early 40’s. They deal with issues unique to them such as early menopause, loss of fertility, dating after diagnosis and body image. The USN has a network of mentors to provide phone support and a private Facebook group. The USN plans activities.
MOCA Mentor Program
MOCA Mentors connect one-to-one over the phone to share their stories and experiences with others. Mentors include survivors, partners of survivors, caregivers and daughters of ovarian cancer survivors. You will receive a phone call within 3 business days of your request. To connect with a MOCA Mentor or to become a mentor, contact sgliniany@mnovarian.org
Men of MOCA
Ovarian cancer doesn’t just impact women- partners, husbands, brothers, sons, friends, and more are affected when a woman is diagnosed with ovarian cancer. MOCA provides peer-to-peer support for men though the Men of MOCA group and Mentor Program.
Contact MOCA Community Support Program Manager Stefanie Gliniany at sgliniany@mnovarian.or or 612-584-3550 for more information.
Gastrointestinal Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Head and Neck Cancer Support Group- meeting virtually
This is a support group for people with esophageal, gastric, or head and neck cancers. Family members are also welcomed to attend. This group provides and opportunity to share questions and concerns with others who are experiencing a similar diagnosis.
When: Second Tuesday of each Month
Time: 3-430 p.m.
If you would like to join the virtual group, please register by:
Email: Julie.kroll@allina.com or Phone: Julie Kroll, 612-863-4648.
Please include your name, email address, and telephone number.
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Peer-to-Peer First Connection Program
The First Connection Program is a fee service of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society that matches patients and their loved ones with trained peer volunteers who have a shared similar experiences. Patients are matched with peer volunteers based on diagnosis, age, gender, and other factors that might create a mutual understanding and ease of communication. Volunteers are trained in basic counseling skills, are regularly updated about LLS and the community resources, and are committed to confidentiality. If you wish to be connected to a peer volunteer, you must fill out the online request form and they will call you by phone to make a connection.
https://www.llsform.org/0999FS18/form53/index.html
Lung Cancer Support Group
All survivors no matter where you are on your journey, along with family and friends, are invited to share this hour with us. Bring your questions and concerns to a group of lung cancer survivors who will understand. We are all in this together to support each other through the ups and downs that are part of the journey- Rain or Shine!
When: First Tuesday of each Month (we do not meet in July)
Time: 4-5 p.m.
Where: Southdale Medical Building, Lower concourse, Room 60, 6545 France Ave S, Edina, MN 55434
Contact Lisa at 651-251-5515. Masks are required.
Lung Cancer Support Group- North Memorial Hospital- meeting via Zoom
When: Fourth Tuesday of the month (excluding the month of April)
Time: 6-7:00 p.m.
Contact: Shirley Kern- 763-581-8446, for link to the group.
Men’s General Cancer Support Group
When: 1st Monday of the month- if meeting falls on a holiday the group is held the following Monday.
Time: 7-8 pm
Where: Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 7401 County Road 101, Maple Grove, MN 55311
Contact: Michelle Tomilinson, 763-420-5015, ext 118
Multiple Myeloma Support Group
Twin Cities Multiple Myeloma Education and Networking Group We welcome you to share your experience in a volunteer led support group with myeloma patients, care partners, family & friends. Join us to meet and interact with others to learn the latest advances in the treatment and management of myeloma.
When: Second Saturday of each month
Time: 10:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Group is currently meeting monthly online via Zoom, email Viki or Kevin at myelomamn@gmail.com to get the link.
Myeloma Support Group- Stillwater- meeting virtually
The Stillwater Myeloma Support Group has offered education and support since 2004. Come hear our knowledgeable speakers and share in member updates.
When: Second Wednesday of each Month
Time: 1-3 p.m.
Contact: Barb Davis: 651-486-9360 or barbdaviskinoglu@gmail.com
https://www.myeloma.org/stillwater
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group- meeting virtually
When: Third Tuesday of the Month
Time: 4-5:30 p.m.
If you would like to join the virtual group, please register by:
email: jill.may@allina.com or phone: 612-863-7387
Please include your name, email address and telephone number.
University of Minnesota Prostate Cancer Support Group
The University of Minnesota Prostrate Cancer Support Group provides education, support and advocacy to both patients and their caregivers when facing a diagnosis of prostate cancer. We attempt to create a safe, trusting, and nurturing place for patients and their loved ones to share their own experiences and learn from others.
When: 2nd Thursday of Each Month
Time: 6-8:30 p.m.
Until further notice, groups are meeting virtually via Zoom. For more information contact Casey Pratt by email cpratt@umn.edu or phone at 612-626-0697
Women’s General Cancer Support Group
When: 1st Monday of the month
Time: 7-8 pm
Group is meeting via Zoom- Please contact Michelle Tomlinson, 763-429-5015, ext. 118 or michellet@lordoflife.org for a link to the group.
Virtual Virginia Piper Cancer Institute Prostate Support Group
When: 4th Tuesday of Each Month
Time: 5-6:30 p.m.
If you would like to join the virtual group contact Beth Johnson.
Email: beth.johnson@allina.com or Phone: 763-236-6061
Please include your name, email address, home address, and telephone number.