Why choose Ascension Illinois
As your cancer care needs change, we’re here to support you. At Ascension Illinois, your care team is beside you from diagnosis through recovery. We provide support for you and your family during and after your treatment, including nutrition education, counseling, support groups and spiritual care.
Support at every stage of your cancer journey
Our cancer specialists help connect you to resources and follow-up care to support your mental, emotional and physical health. Your cancer support services may include:
Breast cancer ambassadors
The Ascension Illinois Breast Cancer Ambassador Program connects survivors with other patients who have completed their cancer treatment. Ambassadors are trained mentors who provide encouragement, emotional support and education.
Stepping Forward survivorship program
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Stepping Forward provides tools, educational programs and one-on-one support — at no cost to you, including personalized survivorship plans. You'll receive a personalized, five-year plan with recommendations for follow-up testing and long-term lifestyle changes.
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Proactive follow-up care: Your dedicated nurse navigator will actively monitor your progress years after treatment. You can also contact us if you have questions or concerns.
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Support groups and networks: Share your story and gain hope from hearing other survivors' stories in a safe, close-knit support group.
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Holistic care: At Ascension Illinois, many of our locations offer specialized services such as yoga, acupuncture, massage, pet therapy and counseling, to support your health after treatment.
Nutrition counseling
Registered dietitians specially trained in oncology provide personalized nutrition plans to help manage side effects during and after treatment.
Spiritual care
Our care teams provide spiritual and emotional support, such as bedside visits, counseling and worship services. You or your family members can request a visit from a chaplain at any time.
Social work assistance
Oncology social workers talk with you and your care team to understand your individual needs and connect you to resources, including financial support options.
Support groups
You’re welcome to talk about your experiences and concerns in our cancer support groups. Connecting with others provides an outlet for emotions and helps you cope by sharing your story. Family and caregivers are welcome, and virtual options are available. Call 844-952-HOPE for more information.
Wig and makeup boutique
Being diagnosed with cancer should never stop you from feeling beautiful, confident and strong — inside and out. The Faraci Boutique provides wigs and breast prostheses when they can’t be obtained through insurance. All consultations are private, and walk-ins are welcome
Lifestyle and fitness classes at Ascension Illinois
Fit Club to Fight Cancer: The Fit Club allows members to share their feelings, triumphs and concerns with other survivors and encourages members to continue making their health a priority. Training options include walking, fitness classes and exercise equipment. All levels of athletes are welcome.
Strong and Sturdy: This exercise class promotes cardio fitness and endurance through whole-body movement and stepping to music. Exercises are performed sitting in a chair or standing depending on participants' abilities. Strong and Sturdy is an ongoing program taught by an exercise physiologist.
Yoga: Our yoga classes are designed specifically for oncology patients. Each class focuses on breath and body awareness while helping improve mental clarity, strength and flexibility. Talk with your doctor before beginning any exercise class. Registration is required.
CALL 844-952-4673(HOPE)
Therapies to support your physical, emotional and mental health
Art therapy: Individual virtual sessions are available by appointment with an art therapist or counselor. Call 773-990-8524 to learn more.
Healing Touch clinic: This energy-based therapy that restore harmony and balance in your body. Using light touch, this method can help relieve anxiety, pain, stress and reduce side effects of cancer treatment. We offer private 60-minute sessions (fully clothed).
Massage therapy: Massage therapy helps reduce swelling in arms and legs affected by lymph node removal or trauma. We also offer scar tissue massage to help improve range of motion and other restrictions of the body due to surgery.
Music therapy: Music therapy is a relaxation technique that may include listening to, singing and even composing your own music. Music therapy can help improve a patient's communication, social skills and emotional well-being.
Relax and Feel Great: A certified hypnotherapist provides relaxation techniques such as biofeedback, guided imagery, visualization, and self-hypnosis to help you feel calm and empowered. Virtual options are available.
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