Resources
The Sands Cancer Center offers many resources for cancer patients and their families including:
The Sands Cancer Center Style Shop
For many people, looking better contributes to feeling better. During your treatment, we understand that you may want to look and feel your best. You are invited to visit our Style Shop where you can choose from a large variety of stylish wigs, attractive apparel (scarves, hats, men's caps) and prostheses. These items are complimentary for Sands patients.
For more information on the Style Shop or to make an appointment please call 585-396-6780.
Research Library
Knowledge is strength. You can learn about your particular condition and how to cope better with cancer in general at the Sands Cancer Center Library. Many resources are available for you in our Library, including computers with Internet access. Particularly useful websites have been identified (bookmarked) and can be accessed easily. Books and audio-visual presentations are also available for you to borrow. We have made it a priority to ensure that you and your family will be able to benefit from the latest information.
Breast Health Patient Navigation Program
When you need help with Breast Cancer Care
The Navigation program assures that every breast cancer patient receives a timely diagnosis and treatment and assists with the coordination of care and services to help guide patients through the health care system.
For more information on our Navigation Program click here.
Breast Health Nurse
Thompson’s Breast Health Nurse is available to answer any questions or concerns that you may have regarding breast care. The Breast Health Nurse can provide information and literature on issues of breast health and breast cancer and is certified to provide clinical breast exams.
While the Breast Health Nurse is not able to suggest a particular physician or course of treatment for your personal care, she can help you understand your physician’s recommendations regarding your breast health. As a certified MammaCare Associate, these services are provided free of charge as a courtesy to all who receive health care via Thompson Health.
The Breast Health Nurse can be reached at 396-6910.
Support Groups:
While you may feel a tremendous loss of control during your cancer treatment, one thing is certain: you are not alone in your journey. The American Cancer Society and the Upstate New York Cancer Research and Education Foundation provide a variety of support groups throughout the Finger Lakes Region that provide education and peer support. These groups offer a safe and supportive "haven" in which you can openly discuss the challenges of coping with cancer, as well as the practicalities of living successfully with uncertainty, disrupted schedules and treatment side effects. Studies have shown more positive results in individuals who are able to maintain a sense of optimism and who feel supported by others.
Some examples of ongoing support groups include:
I Can Cope - Offering emotional support for families of cancer patients.
Man-to-Man - Support for men with prostate cancer
Breast Cancer Support Group - Helping women cope with their disease and treatment
The Sands Cancer Center coordinator (585-396-6780) will be more than happy to provide you with information about these and other support groups available in the area.