As your cancer care needs change, we are ready to support you. At Ascension Illinois, your cancer care team is beside you from diagnosis through recovery. Our care teams provide you and your family with support services during and after your treatment. From nutrition education and counseling to support groups and spiritual care, we are with you every step of the way.
Support at every stage of your cancer journey
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 cancer patients that have completed treatment. Ambassadors are trained as mentors to help provide survivors with encouragement, emotional support and education.
Stepping Forward - Stepping Forward is a cancer survivorship program that provides tools, educational programs and one-on-one support—at no cost to you. The Stepping Forward program includes:
- Personalized survivor plans: You'll receive a personalized, five-year plan with recommendations for follow-up testing and long-term lifestyle changes.
- Proactive follow-up care: Your dedicated nurse navigator will actively monitor your progress years after treatment. You can also contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
- Support groups and networks: Share your story and gain hope from hearing other survivors' stories in a safe, close-knit support group.
- 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 planning to help manage side effects during and after cancer 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. Social workers help connect you with special programs and resources, including financial support options that are right for you.
Support groups - You are 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. Virtual options 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 to cancer patients when they cannot 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: An exercise class that 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 to your doctor before beginning any exercise class. Registration required.
CALL - 844-952-4673
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: An energy-based therapy that helps restore harmony and balance in your body. Using light touch, this method can help relieve anxiety, pain, stress and reduce the side effects of cancer treatment. 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 available.
