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.
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.
2ND WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH | 6 P.M. Baton Rouge General – Bluebonnet Entrance 3, Conference Room 1
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.
EVERY FRIDAY | 10 A.M. Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center – Essen Location Saurage Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Support groups are free of charge. For more information, contact (225) 215-0829.
Massage 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.
Mindfulness 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.
People 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.
Join Baton Rouge General’s dietitians at multiple Rouses’ locations for a grocery store tour. Learn how to choose fresh and healthy foods and understand confusing nutrition labels.Â
View times and locations, as well as register for this free class by visiting BRGeneral.org/grocerytour.Â
Registration is required and space is limited. For any questions or for more information, contact Kristin West, RD, LDN, CDCES at kristin.west@brgeneral.org.Â
LSU AG dietitians will be bringing their expertise to Rouses Market stores. Get ready for informative and delicious demos to help you make healthier choices.
At Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, we recognize the importance of wellness and community in survivorship. The Red Stick Farmers Market, held every Saturday in Downtown Baton Rouge, is a vibrant hub for fresh, local produce and handmade goods. Alongside the nearby Main Street Market, it brings together farmers, small businesses, and patrons dedicated to shopping local.
Smaller farmers markets are also held across Baton Rouge on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, offering fresh, healthy options throughout the week. We encourage survivors to explore these markets as part of a healthy lifestyle while enjoying the supportive sense of community they provide.
Learn more about the markets by visiting breada.org or contact Allie Schleter, Community Engagement Coordinator, BREADA – Red Stick Farmers Market at allie@breada.org.Â
Thursdays 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Pennington Biomedical Research Center 6400 Perkins Road
Saturdays 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Main Street Market 5th & Main Streets
Additional Baton Rouge 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.
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.
2nd & 4th MONDAY OF EVERY MONTH | 6:00 P.M. Mary Bird Perkins Administration Building – 630 S. Tyler St., Covington
 Call Maeghan Jacob at (985) 875-5325 for meeting dates, location and more information.
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.
1st & 3rd WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH | 12:00 P.M. Mary Bird Perkins Administration Building – 630 S. Tyler St., Covington
 Call Maeghan Jacob at (985) 875-5325 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 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.
2nd & 4th WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH | 12 P.M. Mary Bird Perkins Administration Building – 630 S. Tyler St., Covington
 Contact Maeghan Jacob at (985) 875-5325 for more information.
Join us for a calming, stress-relieving yoga class taught by registered yoga teacher, Michelle Ginsburg.
Join Michelle 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.Â
Open to all and free of charge
EVERY THURSDAY | 1:00 P.M. Mary Bird Perkins Administration Building – 630 S. Tyler St., Covington
Call Maeghan Jacob at (985) 875-5325 for meeting dates, location and more information.
If you are a veteran with a cancer diagnosis, we invite you to join Veterans Combating Cancer, a supportive gathering for those who have served in the armed forces. Openly share questions, express concerns and connect with fellow veterans navigating a similar journey.
1st & 3rd THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH | 9:00 A.M. Mary Bird Perkins Administration Building – 630 S. Tyler Street, Covington
Call Maeghan Jacob at (985) 875-5325Â for meeting dates, location and more information.
Tai chi is an internal Chinese martial art practiced for self-defense and health. Known for its slow, intentional movements, tai chi has practitioners worldwide and is particularly popular as a form of gentle exercise and moving meditation, with benefits to mental and physical health. Tai chi instructor Shelley Ford will tailor this program to meet different levels of care. We hope to see you all join us for some Zen and movement!
Open to all and free of charge
EVERY TUESDAY | 5:00 P.M. Mary Bird Perkins Administration Building – 630 S. Tyler St., Covington
For more information or to participate remotely via ZOOM, contact Maeghan Jacob, LCSW at (985) 614-7871.
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.
Join us for a calming and rejuvenating meditation session designed to promote relaxation, mindfulness, and emotional well-being. Facilitated by Melinda Breaux, each 45-minute session includes a short introduction, 25-30 minutes of guided meditation, and a brief processing discussion to reflect and share insights.
For more information or to participate remotely via ZOOM, contact Maeghan Jacob, LCSW at (985) 614-7871.
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center Administration Building 630 S. Tyler St., Covington 9:30 am 1st & 3rd Tuesday of Every Month Open to All and Free of Charge
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.
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.
3rd THURSDAY OF THE MONTH | 5:30 P.M. Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Hammond
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.
U-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
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!Â
 Third Wednesday of each month, 12 P.M.
 Terrebonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center Events Room (2nd Floor)
LSU AG dietitians will be bringing their expertise to Rouses Market stores. Get ready for informative and delicious demos to help you make healthier choices.
For questions or more information, contact April Sins, MS, RDN, LDN at april.sins@rouses.com.Â
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.
