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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.
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 LocationSaurage Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Support groups are free of charge. For more information, contact (225) 215-0829.
Please join us for a support group where participants can share questions, concerns, and feelings as well as connect with others on a similar journey.EVERY TUESDAY | 1 P.M.Held Virtually
Support groups are free of charge. For more information or to RSVP, contact Kitzia Bordlee at (225) 215-0225 or kbordlee@marybird.com.
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.
Outpatient Infusion Areas
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 availableupon request.
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center Saurage Conference Room, 2nd Floor4950 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LAFIRST MONDAY OF EACH MONTH10-11 am
Support your well-being with light, relaxing movement designed specifically for cancer patients. All levels are welcome.
Led by Elena Keegan, Educator and Registered Yoga Teacher, this session offers gentle, guided movement in a calm, welcoming environment.Yoga mats, towels, and water bottles are provided.
For more information, contact Navigation at (225) 215-1126 or navigators@marybird.com.
Group 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.
The Red Shoes, a local non profit provides yoga, meditation, book and film studies, creative arts and more.
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.
View times and locations, as well as register for this free class by visiting BRGeneral.org/grocerytour.
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.
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.
To see upcoming events visit rouses.com/in-store/events.
For questions or more information, contact April Sins, MS, RDN, LDN at april.sins@rouses.com.
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.
Tuesdays3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.Main Library at Goodwood7711 Goodwood Blvd.
Wednesdays9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.ExxonMobil YMCA7717 Howell Blvd.
Thursdays8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.Pennington Biomedical Research Center6400 Perkins Road
Saturdays8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.Main Street Market5th & Main Streets
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
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.
Open to all and free of charge
EVERY THURSDAY | 1:00 P.M.Mary Bird Perkins Administration Building – 630 S. Tyler St., Covington
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
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!
EVERY TUESDAY | 5:00 P.M.Mary Bird Perkins Administration Building – 630 S. Tyler St., Covington
For more information, contact Maeghan Jacob, LCSW at (985) 614-7871.
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.
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center Administration Building630 S. Tyler St., Covington9:30 am1st & 3rd Tuesday of Every MonthOpen to All and Free of Charge
At Mary Bird Perkins, we believe survivorship begins the moment you’re diagnosed – not just when treatment is completed. Our Survivorship Program is here to help you navigate life beyond cancer with confidence, support and the tools you need to thrive.
For more information, contact Ailah Y. Martin, MPH at amartin@marybird.com or call (985) 898-0589.
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.
These services are provided to Ascension patients at no cost, thanks to the generous support of the Gonzales Area Foundation. Learn more about our partnership with GAF here.
Group support to reduce stress, improve self-care and connect with others affected by cancer.
EVERY TUESDAY | 1 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.
Mindful Chair Yoga
At Mary Bird Perkins in Gonzales, we offer 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. As a part of this program, we offer a mindful yoga class to improve strength, balance and promote mindfulness.
Every Thursday11:30 AM – 12:30 PMAscension Parish Library – Gonzales708 S. Irma BlvdGonzales, LA 70737
For more information or to RSVP, please contact Sarah Carbo at (225) 644-0835 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.
Table massage to improve circulation, relieve tension and promote relaxation.
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.
Art workshops to encourage healing and self-expression through the creative process.
OFFERED MONTHLYHaven of Ascension, 12138 W. Main St. Gonzales, LA 70737
Dose 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.
While support groups are not offered at our Hammond location, patients can access group support through our Baton Rouge and Covington centers. Our social workers often connect patients with these programs based on their needs. In addition, Cancer Care, a national nonprofit organization, offers free telephone and online support groups led by oncology social workers, providing flexible options for those who may not be able to attend in person.
If you have questions about support resources or need help finding the right fit, please speak with your care team or contact Hollie Price at hprice@marybird.com.
You can also contact 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 Dietitian2. Exercise program with a Certified Personal Trainer Wellness Specialist3. Awareness and treatment for lymphedema with a Certified Lymphedema
The program is FREE of CHARGEPatients 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 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.
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.
Learn more about Patient Navigation Services.
Breast and prostate cancers(800) 227-2345www.cancer.org
(800) 813-4673www.cancercare.org
Women’s Center for TransformationAbita Springs(985) 892-8111www.womenscenterforhealing.org
1-on-1 Cancer Support for Survivors and Caregivers(866) 463-7626www.imermanangels.org
(800) 955-4572www.LLS.org/FirstConnection
(850) 220-7777www.livestrong.org
Contact a patient navigator today.
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Baton Rouge: (225) 215-1126
Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Covington: (985) 614-7871Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Houma: (985) 850-6309
Self-referral FormRelease of Health Information FormNourish Life Cancer Survivorship Workbook
