• alone together

    Alone Together

    Treatment Isolation

    In these recent weeks, we have experienced a world lacking physical contact and social interaction in efforts to stop the spread of the Coronavirus Disease. To keep our communities safe, many non-essential workers have begun to work from home, while others have lost their jobs due to this pandemic. Education has become online-based and fitness centers have closed. The regular things we do to take care of ourselves are less accessible. COVID-19 can feel isolating for those of us at home, but for those currently in treatment, isolation has become a priority for safe treatment.

    When new patients enter into cancer treatment, they are usually greeted with support from the medical team— a team who can provide initial comfort through a hug, a shoulder to cry on, someone to lean on. Cancer patients were also accustomed to bringing a family member to treatment for support, but now they are left feeling alone and scared. Local hospitals have tried to ease this with e-readers for patients to stay active and Zoom meetings between patients and staff to better the patient experience. Read more about their efforts to help patients through these growing challenges of social distancing.

    Virtual Peer Programs

    At 13thirty Cancer Connect, we are committed to our mission to provide peer to peer programming for AYAs living with cancer. We plan to continue hosting weekly peer programs in all of our regular categories: arts, wellness, and social. Instead of using our Rochester and Syracuse Centers, we are hosting programs via Zoom virtual video chats. This way we can safely stay connected and engaged with one another. If you’re in treatment and joining us for the first time, email Megan or Steve to RSVP and get the Zoom meeting information. Remember, we are alone together.

    Share With Us

    What are you doing for self-care during this time?
    Do you have a daily routine that helps you stay in good spirits? Are you looking for suggestions to stay active?

    How are you staying socially engaged with your peers?
    Are you using Zoom and social media to stay in touch? What activities have you done together virtually? Are you looking for peers to connect with? You can join us for our next virtual program whether you’re currently being treated or social distancing at home. Check out our calendar of programs and events.

    What virtual programs would you like to see 13thirty Cancer Connect host?
    Have a movie night suggestion? Maybe you’d like to have a video game competition. Let us know in the blog comments section or connect with us via email today.


    If you need immediate emotional support please use the state resources provided below:

    OMH Emotional Support Helpline: 1-844-863-9314 *
    The Emotional Support Line provides free and confidential support, helping callers experiencing increased anxiety due to the coronavirus emergency. The Help Line is staffed by volunteers, including mental health professionals, who have received training in crisis counseling.

    Check out other New York State mental health resources.

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