Education Programs

Information and education programs focus on the practical, from what to expect from treatment to how to balance practical concerns such as finances, working, health insurance as well as the emotional side of the disease.

To register, please call (331) 301-5280.

Personalized Financial Resource Consultation

By appointment only
Cancer not only affects your physical health, it also affects your financial well-being. Several resources are available to manage the financial impact of cancer, including federally-funded programs and private nonprofit organizations. Schedule a meeting with a financial navigator to learn what financial resources are available to you. 

Welcome to Waterford Place Orientation

By appointment only
All new participants are invited to attend an introductory orientation to discover the valuable resources available at Waterford Place.

Technology Consultation

By appointment only
Need help connecting to virtual programs through your personal computer, laptop or tablet? Schedule a virtual or phone consultation for assistance with setting up an email or installing and using the Webex application on your device.

Beyond the Bell: The Next Chapter, A Cancer Conversation

Tuesday, Oct. 6 • 6 to 7:15 p.m. (Register Online)
Allen Bloom, MD
Kaitlin Ryczek, OTR/L, CSRS, CLT, CHT
Laura Rollins, LSW
The end of treatment can bring new questions, emotions and challenges. Join a multidisciplinary panel of experts for a conversation about recovery, rebuilding and finding your way forward after cancer.

Updates in Radiation Oncology for Breast Cancer

Wednesday, Oct. 13 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. (Register Online)
Vasudha Lingareddy, MD, FACRO
RUSH MD Anderson Cancer Center at Rush Copley
Learn about recent advances in radiation oncology for breast cancer, with a focus on how new technologies and treatment approaches are improving patient care.

Post-Surgical Adaptations and Whole-Body Recovery

Thursday, Oct. 29 • 6 to 7 p.m. (Register Online)
Monica Mohanty, Certified SomaYoga Therapist, C-IAYT, CYT 500
Harmony Within, LLC
Surgery affects more than the surgical site. It changes how the nervous system senses, protects and moves the body. Learn why guarding, tightness or hesitation may continue after healing and explore gentle practices to reconnect with your body. No yoga or movement experience is needed as this is about awareness, not performance.

Busting Common Nutrition Myths

Tuesday, Nov. 3 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. (Register Online)
Michelle Cordes, RD, CSO, LDN
RUSH MD Anderson Cancer Center at Rush Copley
Fact or fiction? Dietitian Michelle Cordes will explore common misconceptions about nutrition and what’s behind them. Get practical, evidence-based nutrition guidance to support anyone undergoing cancer treatment.

Understanding Your Breast Reconstruction Options

Tuesday, Nov. 10 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. (Register Online)
Keith C. Hood, MD, FACS
Rush Copley Medical Center
Breast reconstruction is a personal decision. Learn about implant-based and autologous reconstruction, immediate or delayed reconstruction, aesthetic flat closure, recovery, potential risks and how treatment decisions may affect your options. Bring your questions and get the information you need to make informed choices.

Knowing the Signs: When Your Loved One Needs More Care and Support

Wednesday, Nov. 18 • 6 to 7 p.m. (Register Online)
Tiffany Lewis, Community Liaison
Sanctuary Hospice
Caring for a loved one during cancer treatment can feel overwhelming, but knowing what to expect can make the journey easier. Learn to recognize when additional care may be needed and when to seek medical help, support good nutrition during treatment and find resources and support for both the patient and family.

Living with Uncertainty

Tuesday, Dec. 1 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. (Register Online)
Laura Rollins, LSW
RUSH MD Anderson Cancer Center at Rush Copley
A cancer diagnosis changes us. No matter the treatment plan or the stage of cancer, our lives are never really the same. Learn skills to make peace with the uncertainty a cancer diagnosis can bring.

FAMILY PROGRAMS

Hocus Pocus Family Focus

Thursday, Oct. 22 • 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Caring Arts Foundation
Bring the kids for some Halloween fun, artfully done! Design a trick-or-treat bag, make a mask, enjoy spooky music and — with the help of mixologist Mad Zac — create your own mocktail potion with ingredients of your choice and a commemorative beaker keepsake for each child to take home. Don’t forget to wear a costume! Space is limited. Please register immediate family members only.

Family Holiday Photos

Monday, Nov. 2 • 5 to 8 p.m.
Caring Arts Foundation
Pose for a holiday photo with your family, complete with a winter backdrop and festive props. Color holiday pages and winter mandalas while you wait your turn. Refreshments will be provided. Space is limited. Register early.

Presents for Patients

Monday, Dec. 7 • 6 to 8 p.m.
Take part in this festive, fun, family-friendly evening of gift-making for the person in your life who has cancer. All supplies and instructions will be provided. Enjoy light refreshments and entertainment, too.