In 2012 John Stoddard Cancer Center will utilize the support from the Pieathlon for the Stoddard Survivorship Program. The Stoddard Survivorship Program is designed to help provide support to those who have completed treatment so they can live the best life possible following the last treatment. Those participating in the program begin with a one-on-one interview with an oncology certified nurse who reviews with survivors their treatments and long term side effects, their care plans for health promotion and maintenance, and reviews any concerns that the survivors have now that they are done with therapy that affect quality of life (i.e.: financial concerns, emotional concerns, nutritional concerns). Based on this interview the oncology nurse works with the survivors to access the available resources, which include the LiveWell at the Y program, support groups and other resources:

• LiveWell at the Y – This free program promotes the participation of cancer survivors in exercise and wellness activities. Through a partnership with the YMCA, survivors are offered a 12-week free membership to four YMCA’s in the Des Moines area (South Suburban YMCA, Ankeny YMCA, Waukee Family YMCA and the YMCA Healthy Living Center in Clive).
• Support Groups – Stoddard offers many support groups to patients and families who wish to share their feelings with others who will understand.
• Other resources – John Stoddard Cancer Center offers a number of services including psychological counseling, nutritional counseling, financial counseling, genetic counseling, and pastoral care.

The Stoddard Survivorship Program is provided free of charge and is not reimbursed through insurance. It is supported with philanthropy from individuals, foundations, and organizations.

For more information about the John Stoddard cancer Center, visit their website: www.johnstoddardcancer.org