Support & Survivorship

About Support & Survivorship

More Americans are surviving cancer than ever before due to advancements in cancer treatment and research. To help survivors lead healthy, active and fulfilling lives, the Center has survivorship programs that address social, emotional and spiritual needs for the rapidly increasing number of cancer survivors.

Patient Navigation

Studies show that newly diagnosed cancer patients rate their quality of care higher and report fewer problems if they receive support from a patient navigator. This is why Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, in conjunction with its hospital partners, offers navigation services for every patient from diagnosis through treatment and survivorship. In addition to easing concerns, answering questions, coordinating care and assisting patients and their families with informed decision-making, patient navigators also schedule consultations with other patient support services. Patient navigation services are made possible by the generosity of the community.

Contact a patient navigator today.

Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Baton Rouge: (225) 215-1126

Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Covington: (985) 875-2234

Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Houma: (985) 850-6309

Upcoming Support Groups and Events

Tuesday March 19
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Gonzales – Support Group
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Covington – Tai Chi Class
Wednesday March 20
11:00 am - 12:00 pm Mindful Chair Yoga
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Houma – Together We Can
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Baton Rouge

EVERY FRIDAY | 10 A.M.
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center – Essen Location
Saurage Conference Room (2nd Floor)

If you are currently receiving chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment, please join us for a support group where participants can share questions, concerns and feelings, as well as connect with others going through a similar journey.

Support groups are free of charge. For more information, contact (225) 215-0829.

Courtney and Colleen

2nd Wednesday of every month | 6 P.M.
Baton Rouge General – Bluebonnet 
Entrance 3, Conference Room 1

Support group meetings provide a space where patients can share their stories, seek emotional support, find answers to their questions from clinical experts and connect with a community who shares their challenges. 

Support groups are free of charge. For more information, contact (225) 215-0829.

MassageMassage involves gentle manipulation, rubbing, and kneading of the muscles and soft tissue. Massage for cancer patients is used to decrease stress, anxiety, depression, pain and fatigue. Program is free to our patients.

 Outpatient Infusion Areas

MeditationMindfulness meditation is the practice of using our breath to help focus our attention. Mindfulness meditation can help reduce stress, enhance immune function and lower blood pressure. Individual and group instruction on how to practice mindfulness meditations, both sitting and walking, is available
upon request.

 To listen to the guided imagery and meditation scripts at home, click here.

Stretching at yoga classGroup classes that improve strength, flexibility and stamina. Program is free to the public.

 For more information, please call (225) 338-1170 or visit The Red Shoes.

Yoga mat with candle and towelThe Red Shoes, a local non profit provides yoga, meditation, book and film studies, creative arts and more.

 For more information, please call (225) 338-1170 or visit The Red Shoes.

Healing ArtsPeople with cancer who engage in creative arts experience less depression and anxiety than those who do not, according to a review of research trials conducted over 23 years. This is the backbone of the Mind-Body Medicine approach, which uses art, meditation, massage and other proven techniques to bring about healing results.

To view our Healing Arts exhibit throughout the Cancer Center click here.

Additional Resources

Cancer Services: A local and independent nonprofit, Cancer Services serves the tangible needs of people living with cancer in Greater Baton Rouge. The agency helps meet the financial, educational and emotional needs that arise during the cancer journey. All services are free of charge.

Covington

Currently on hold due to extreme heatLet's Geaux Walk

Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center Covington is pleased to offer guided walks as part of our new exercise initiative, Let’s Geaux!

Anyone who is currently in treatment or who has completed treatment. We will walk at a comfortable pace for a period of about 20 minutes. You are required to obtain a release from your doctor in order to participate.

Walking helps to:

  • Reduce side effects during chemo or radiation
  • Bounce back to daily life following cancer treatments
  • Prevent loss of function or fitness due to treatment
  • Improve your mental and physical health before, during and after cancer diagnosis and treatment

Hubie Gallagher Park Pavilion – 601 S. Filmore St. Covington, LA

Talk to your oncologist or call  (985) 875-5325 for more information.

MeditationMary Bird Perkins Cancer Center Covington is pleased to offer a calming, stress-relieving yoga class taught by registered yoga teacher, Asiyah DeGruy.

Join Asiyah to stretch and strengthen your body; develop core strength, alignment, and balance; practice breathing techniques and build flexibility.

The class will include mindful meditation promoting inner peace, heightened attention, focus and calmness.

Open to all and free of charge

 First and third Thursday of every month, 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

 Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Covington – 630 S. Tyler Street, Covington

 Call Maeghan Jacob, LCSW at (985) 614-7871 for meeting dates, location and more information.

Support for women who are struggling with the impact of their cancer treatment on their appearance and self-esteem by providing mastectomy products such as breast forms and bras as well as wigs and wig fittings in a supportive private setting with trained staff and volunteers.

The Image Recovery room offers wigs, hats, turbans and scarves to patients receiving cancer treatment at no charge in a private fitting area. Make an appointment to come and see our selection or to obtain a listing of additional wig resources. If you have items you no longer need, please consider donating them to the center. Items should be clean and in good condition. If you need a listing of local or online resources for wigs and head coverings, call Maeghan Jacob at (985) 875-5325 or email mjacobs@marybird.com.

Courtney and Colleen

Provides support and education to individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. Talking about your cancer experience can really reduce the burden. You may find out ways to deal with your treatment, or meet new friends who know exactly what you are going through.

First and third Wednesday of every month, 12:00 p.m.

 Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Covington – 630 S. Tyler Street, Covington

 Call Maeghan Jacob at (985) 614-7871 for meeting dates, location and more information.

If you are facing a breast cancer diagnosis, join our Breast Cancer Support Group for
a safe place to exchange ideas, improve your well-being and support one another. This private group will be led by Crystal Hooper, LPC-S.

African American women in the state of Louisiana statistically have a higher mortality rate after a cancer diagnosis than the national average. Thanks to our partnership with Gilead Sciences, this support group will help provide enhanced support resources for this community.

 Second and Fourth Monday of every month, 6:00 p.m.

 Mary Bird Perkins Admin Building in Covington – 630 S. Tyler St., Covington

 Call Maeghan Jacob at (985) 614-7871 for meeting dates, location and more information.

It is crucial for cancer survivors and caregivers to find social support to help manage the many emotions that accompany a cancer diagnosis, treatments and survivorship. Talking can help so much! This support group offers a place to express ones fears and hopes, and gain strength from others who understand the challenges and opportunities of living with cancer. The focus of the group is on sharing experiences and discovering new ways to experience quality of life after a cancer diagnosis.

 Second Wednesday and fourth of every month, 12 p.m.

 Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center Administration Building
630 S. Tyler St, Covington, LA

 Contact Maeghan Jacob at (985) 614-7871  for more information.

Three women posing by a tree- support and survivorshipMy BC Team is a FREE social network for women facing breast cancer. Instead of utilizing a networking structure that promotes anonymity, MyBCTeam provides a safe environment for women to get to know one another and make real, lasting connections. These connections create the foundation of their individual “breast cancer team,” women and providers they personally connect with and recommend.

Woman with dogLocal pet therapy groups visit patients and visitors at the Cancer Center on a regular basis. The goal is to promote health and a sense of well-being through positive interactions between people and animals. All pet therapy teams have completed behavior evaluations and training, and animals have up-to-date vaccinations.

 Contact Maeghan Jacob, LCSW at (985) 614-7871 or mjacob@marybird.com for more information.

Gonzales

THRIVE offers an array of free services for survivors and caregivers with the goal of helping you live a full and meaningful life during and after treatment. This integrative program aims to treat the physical, emotional, social and spiritual aspects of survivorship, combining research-based complimentary therapies with traditional cancer care. We seek to provide options that are respectful of your personal needs and preferences, allowing your values to guide the support services you receive.

Gonzales Area FoundationThese services are provide to Ascension patients thanks to the generous support of the Gonzales Area Foundation. Learn more about our partnership with GAF here.

Courtney and supportGroup support to reduce stress, improve self-care and connect with others affected by cancer.

 Every Tuesday from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.

Haven of Ascension, 12138 W. Main St. Gonzales, LA 70737

 To RSVP or for more information, please contact Sarah Carbo (225) 644-1205 or scarbo@marybird.com.

MeditationGroup classes to improve strength, balance and promote mindfulness.

 Every Wednesday from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m.

Haven of Ascension, 12138 W. Main St. Gonzales, LA 70737

 To RSVP or for more information, please contact Sarah Carbo (225) 644-1205 or scarbo@marybird.com.

Outdoor walk to improve health, increase energy and connect with others affected by cancer.

 Every Thursday from 7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

 Lamar Dixon Walking Path, 9039 South Saint Landry Avenue, Gonzales, LA 70737

 To RSVP or for more information, please contact Sarah Carbo (225) 644-1205 or scarbo@marybird.com.

Individual counseling sessions for support in adjusting to life after a cancer diagnosis.

 By appointment only. Please contact Sarah Carbo at (225) 644-1205 or scarbo@marybird.com.

MassageTable massage to improve circulation, relieve tension and promote relaxation.

 By appointment only. Please contact Sarah Carbo at (225) 644-1205 or scarbo@marybird.com.

Woman Standing To Address Self Help Therapy Group Meeting In Community Center

Educational workshop on topics of interest related to cancer survivorship.

OFFERED QUARTERLY

 To RSVP or for more information, please contact Sarah Carbo: (225) 644-1205 or scarbo@marybird.com.

Healing ArtsArt workshops to encourage healing and self-expression through the creative process.

OFFERED MONTHLY

Haven of Ascension, 12138 W. Main St. Gonzales, LA 70737

 To RSVP or for more information, please contact Sarah Carbo (225) 644-1205 or scarbo@marybird.com.

Dose of the CoastDose of the Coast, a local non-profit, provides fishing, sailing and sunset cruises.

 For more information, please call (504) 641-4629 or visit www.doseofthecoast.org.

Hammond

Provides support, education and resources to breast cancer survivors.

 Every last Thursday of the month, 4 p.m.

 Call (985) 542-9246 or email survivorsthroughfaith@yahoo.com for meeting location and more information.

Nurse holding patient's hand

A cancer diagnosis and treatment often evokes unexpected emotions and feelings. By attending this cancer support group, you have the opportunity to share your unique experiences, or just listen to others. Our Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Kate Walker, will lead the group discussion and light refreshments will be provided. Together, we can help each other to make the journey a little easier. Together, we are stronger.

 Third Thursday of the month, 5:30 – 7 p.m.

 Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Hammond

 Call (985) 542-5000 or email kwalker@marybird.com for meeting location and more information.

Can’t get to a meeting? Treatment and travel can hinder participation in meetings or you may need more support than a once a month meeting. Cancer Care, a nonprofit organization, offers numerous telephone or online support groups. All groups are free of charge and are led by an oncology social worker.

 Call Cancer Care at (800) 813-4673 for more information.

Houma

U-ThriveU-Thrive is an oncology wellness program to assist cancer patients in managing symptoms to improve their quality of life and overall well-being, and allow them to be proactive and involved in their care.

The U-Thrive Program includes:
1. Nutritional consultations by an Oncology Certified Registered Dietitian
2. Exercise program with a Certified Personal Trainer Wellness Specialist
3. Awareness and treatment for lymphedema with a Certified Lymphedema

The program is FREE of CHARGE
Patients will need to be referred by their physician before beginning the exercise program

 For more information, call (985) 850-6214.

Join us for a cancer support group designed for individuals undergoing active chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Any and all diagnoses are welcome! We will discuss and address common topics associated with cancer, while supporting each other along the way. There is no need to endure this journey alone! 

 Third Wednesday of each month, 12 P.M.

 Terrebonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center Events Room (2nd Floor)

 For more information, call (985) 857-8093. RSVP here

An adult cancer camp (no outside camping) that allows participants to enjoy various fun activities with other campers.

 Held annually in October.

 For more information, call Toni Armstrong at (985) 860-3215.

Additional Resources

American Cancer Society Reach to Recovery and Man to Man Peer Support
Breast and prostate cancers
(800) 227-2345
www.cancer.org

Cancer Care Free Counseling Support for Survivors, Caregivers, and the Bereaved
(800) 813-4673
www.cancercare.org

Caregiver Support Group for Women
Women’s Center for Transformation
Abita Springs
(985) 892-8111
www.womenscenterforhealing.org

Imerman Angel’s Peer Mentoring
1-on-1 Cancer Support for Survivors and Caregivers
(866) 463-7626
www.imermanangels.org

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society First Connection Peer Support
(800) 955-4572
www.LLS.org/FirstConnection

LiveStrong Foundation Free Counseling for Survivors and Caregivers
(850) 220-7777
www.livestrong.org