New service offered for cancer patients and families

WAIMEA - North Hawaii Community Hospital (NHCH) will host a support group for cancer patients from throughout Hawaii Island, as well as their families and caregivers, starting next Thursday.

The meeting will be held at the hospital from 2-4 p.m. There is no charge and no RVSP is required. The schedule for future dates will be decided at the first meeting, depending on what the participants want.

The support group will offer educational presentations on a variety of topics of interest to cancer patients and their families, as well as informal discussion in a relaxed and supportive environment. The group will be facilitated by Corey McCullough, a licensed social worker at NHCH, and Crissy Kuehn, RN, the hospital's Cancer Center patient navigator.

"Being able to provide support to cancer patients and their families is extremely important," said Dr. Gary Goldberg, NHCH's chief medical officer. "A support group provides a unique opportunity to discuss and share with others in similar circumstances. People often have complex questions. A support group offers time and resources to address those concerns and help reduce anxiety."

McCullough holds a master's degree in social work. She has worked in the hospital, rehab, hospice and home health environments. Kuehn provides education and works as a liaison between the patient and various resources and members of the health care team.

The guest speaker next week will be Angela Wolfenberger, RDN, LDN, a clinical dietitian at the hospital, who will talk about healthy eating habits and will be available to answer any questions cancer patients or their caregivers may have.

Info or questions: Call 881-4417