New breast cancer support group at the American Cancer Society “Lanakila” is playing a vital role for Kaua‘i women struggling to cope with a diagnosis of breast cancer. “Lanakila” means triumph or victory in Hawaiian. “Many patients find the group
New breast cancer support group at the American Cancer Society “Lanakila” is playing a vital role for Kaua‘i women struggling to cope with a diagnosis of breast cancer. “Lanakila” means triumph or victory in Hawaiian.
“Many patients find the group to be empowering,” said Michele McGinley, LCSW, who leads the twice-monthly group in Lihu‘e. Sandy Diego, a registered nurse and survivor, is the co-facilitator.
Women frequently feel lost and overwhelmed when they are first diagnosed. In the group they learn from each other how to cope and how to deal with stress of life after breast cancer.
“We discuss other women’s issues as well, because life goes on,” McGinley said. “It really becomes a support mechanism that extends into many aspects of a patient’s life.”
The group meets at the St. Michael’s Parish Hall below the American Cancer Society office, at the corner of Umi and Hardy Streets in Lihu‘e. Women gather at 5 p.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of the month.
“At each session our goal is to help the participants develop a new tool for life. The group is educational as well as therapeutic. Speakers on appropriate topics are brought into the group to teach additional skills for coping and everyday life,” she said. “I really love working with breast cancer patients. It’s been my experience that, overall, women with breast cancer tend to be proactive after they get past the initial stages of shock. They take control of their lives and look for resources.”
Studies show cancer support group participants generally tend to have higher survival rates and a better quality of life. Support groups are not a “downer” — they are quite the opposite. Women will find a network of support, information and skills that can make a real difference in their lives.
“Women need not be afraid to make that first call to me,” McGinley said. “Their fears and concerns will be handled in a supportive manner.”
For more information about the Lanakila group, call the American Cancer Society at 245-2942, and press 3 for local office. For cancer information anytime, visit cancer.org or call 1-800-ACS-2345.
