Cancer: Thriving and Surviving (CTS)

Workshops are highly participatory. Mutual support and success build participants’ confidence in their ability to manage their health and maintain active and fulfilling lives.  Each participant is guided to tailor the workshop content to their own needs.

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Formats

Small group workshop offered either face-to-face or virtually

  • 2 1/2 hours per session
  • 1 session per week for 6 weeks

Participants

Cancer Survivors, any type of cancer

  • 12-16 participants per face-to-face workshop
  • 8-12 participants per virtual workshop

Workshop Leaders

  • 2 trained Leaders, one or both of whom are non-health professionals and cancer survivors, for both in person and virtual workshops
  • Must be trained by SMRC-certified Master Trainers

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Program replace existing programs and treatments?

The program does not conflict with existing programs or treatment. Treatment is not altered. For all medical questions, participants are referred to their physicians or other health professionals.

How were the programs developed?

The programs were developed based on focus groups with cancer survivors, reviewing professional organizational standards and national standards for such areas as exercise and nutrition.   We combined these inputs with processes to increase self-efficacy and to allow participants to self-tailor the workshops to their own needs.  In addition, many methods from cognitive behavioral therapy are included.

How can my facility offer the Program?

All agencies must have at a minimum:

Workshop Topics

Techniques to deal with symptoms of cancer and its treatment, such as fatigue, pain, sleeplessness, shortness of breath, stress, and emotional problems such as depression, anger, fear, and frustration.

Physicians, registered dietitians, occupational and physical  therapists, and other health professionals have reviewed all workshop materials. 

Topics include:

  • Fear of recurrence
  • Changes in body image
  • Appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength and endurance
  • Healthy eating
  • Making decisions about treatment and complementary therapies
  • Working more effectively with health care providers
  • Communicating with friends and family
  • Communicating with the health care system
  • Dealing with negative emotions
  • Action-planning, problem-solving, decision-making

Participant Materials

Language Options

A Spanish translation is available (Cáncer: Triunfando y Sobreviviendo)


For articles about Cancer Thriving and Surviving see the bibliography

The CTS program is approved for Title IIID funding under the Older American’s Act.

Contact us for more information smrc@selfmanagementresource.com

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