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.
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
- 8-14 (10 minimum strongly advised) 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:
- License to offer SMRC Programs
- At least two Leaders trained to offer Cancer: Thriving and Surviving
- For in-person and virtual workshops, a copy of Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions for each participant
- For small group phone call workshops, a copy of Tool Kit: Thriving and Surviving with Cancer Self-Management Program for each participant
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
- Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions book
- Relaxation for Mind and Body relaxation CD or MP3 (optional)
- For Tool Kit option, participants need the complete Tool Kit: Thriving and Surviving with Cancer Self-Management Program. This includes a book, exercise CD, self-test, and tip sheets.
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.