Cancer Support Groups
North Bay Cancer Support Groups
These groups are open to all patients, unless other wise noted.
San Francisco Bay Area
Bay Area Young Survivors (BAYS)
Learn more about BAYS and the events they hold at bayareayoungsurvivors.org
You can view a list of resources compiled by BAYS at bayareayoungsurvivors.org/resource
BAYS is a support community for people 45 and younger with breast cancer in the San Francisco Bay Area. We are an inclusive breast cancer community for those experiencing the unique issues that come with having breast cancer at a young age.
BAYS thrives as an online breast cancer support community via our Slack group and Google group, and offers monthly support meetings and other community-building events via Zoom that are specifically geared towards young people with breast cancer in the San Francisco Bay Area. We host events such as in-person support groups, hikes, fun outings in the city, and other activities based on what best serves our community of Bay Area young people experiencing breast cancer.
Events For Young Breast Cancer Patients
Community-building events have included social events like hikes, picnics, holiday parties, planning sessions for the BAYS Memorial Garden at Golden Gate Park, writing workshops, book readings, and participating in the annual San Francisco Pride Parade. They have also included educational events on reiki and healing touch therapy, medical marijuana, lymphedema, and physical intimacy after cancer.
Stage 4 Breast Cancer Support
BAYS also offers a special support group called Mets in the City (MITC) for members with metastatic breast cancer.
For more information write to info@bayareayoungsurvivors.org.
Sonoma County
Art from the Heart
Dates: Thursdays 2:30 – 4:00 pm
Meetings are held via Zoom.
Sponsoring organization: Providence
Art as therapy is guided by a local artist and cancer survivor, in a step-by-step format that enables and encourages individuals to create their own pathway toward health and well-being through the enjoyment of art.
Meetings are FREE of charge for anyone in treatment, having had cancer or living life’s journey with cancer. You do not need to be a patient of Providence to participate, all are welcome.
For more information contact Sharon Doughty at Sharon.Doughty@Providence.org or (707) 791-7874.
Dates: Starting September 23, 2024, Mondays & Wednesdays 4:15 – 5:00 pm
Sponsoring organization: Parkpoint Health Club with funding from North Bay Cancer Alliance
Location: Parkpoint Healdsburg, 195 Foss Creek Circle, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Cost: $50 for the six week program
Parkpoint Health Club is partnering with the North Bay Cancer Alliance to offer Cancer Wellness programming at their Healdsburg location. The program is six weeks in length. Regular physical activity, including aerobic activity, strength training and stretching, can help reduce fatigue, depression and anxiety while maintaining or improving physical function.
For more information contact Jan Blalock at jan@parkpointhealthclub.com or (707) 385-2500.
Beginning Art
Dates: Third Tuesday of each month from 2:30 – 4:00 pm
Sponsoring organization: Providence
Beginning “art as therapy,” guided by a local artist and cancer survivor, is a step-by-step format that enables and encourages individuals to create their own pathway toward health and well-being through the enjoyment of art.
Meetings are FREE of charge for anyone in treatment, having had cancer or living life’s journey with cancer. You do not need to be a patient of Providence to participate, all are welcome.
Dates: Mondays and Wednesdays from 1:30 – 3:00 pm
Location: Airport Health Club, 195 Foss Creek Circle, Healdsburg
Cost: free of charge to members and non-members
Sponsoring organization: Airport Health Club with funding from North Bay Cancer Alliance
The Airport Health Club’s Cancer Wellness Program is for members and non-members with any type of cancer at any stage. This program is 10 weeks in length.
The program is designed to implement the process of improvement in pain management and function so participants can better perform activities of daily living through appropriate exercise. Participants see improvements in posture, breathing, bone strength, endurance, digestion, tolerance to chemotherapy, pain, and fatigue.
To apply for the program contact Lisa Fuller at lisaf@parkpointhealthclub.com.
Early Stage or Newly Diagnosed Cancer Support Group
Dates: Wednesdays 3:00 – 4:00 pm
Meetings are held virtually, call (707) 521-7785 for link and dial-in information.
Sponsoring organization: Sutter Health
Meetings are free and you do NOT Need to be a part of Sutter to attend!
Facilitator: Ange Stephens, MA, LMFT
For those who have been newly diagnosed with any type or any stage of cancer, or anyone who has any type of early-stage cancer.
For more information contact Margie Tygerson at TygersM@sutterhealth.org or (707) 521-7785.
Expandance® Gentle Movement
Dates: Fridays 10:30 am – 12 noon
Meetings are held via Zoom.
Sponsoring organization: Providence
Using the expandance® technique, a somatic movement practice; get more comfortable in your body, learn how to listen to your body and how to connect with your inner wisdom and creativity.
Classes are free of charge for anyone in treatment, having had cancer or living life’s journey with cancer. You do not need to be a patient of Providence to participate, all are welcome.
Family, Friends & Caregiver Support Group
Dates: Wednesdays 12 noon – 1:00 pm
Meetings are held virtually, call (707) 521-7785 for link and dial-in information.
Sponsoring organization: Sutter Health
Meetings are free and you do NOT Need to be a part of Sutter to attend!
Facilitator: Ange Stephens, MA, LMFT
For adults who are close to (or are caregivers for) someone with cancer.
For more information contact Margie Tygerson at TygersM@sutterhealth.org or (707) 521-7785.
Gentle Yoga
Dates:
Weekly daytime class: Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:30 – 11:45 am
Monthly evening class: Last Wednesday of every month, 6 – 7 pm
Meetings are held via Zoom
Sponsoring organization: Providence
This class promotes centering through movement, meditation and relaxation; with time for information sharing and community discussion.
Meetings are FREE of charge for anyone in treatment, having had cancer or living life’s journey with cancer. You do not need to be a patient of Providence to participate, all are welcome.
Journeying Together
Dates:
Weekly daytime class: Wednesdays 10:30 am – 12 noon
Monthly evening class: last Monday of every month, 5:30 – 7 pm
Meetings are held via Zoom
Sponsoring organization: Providence
A unique cancer patient support group, led by licensed marriage and family therapist and cancer survivor. There is time for sharing thoughts and building community through words, art/doodling and guided meditation.
Meetings are FREE of charge for anyone in treatment, having had cancer or living life’s journey with cancer. You do not need to be a patient of Providence to participate, all are welcome.
Later Stage Cancer Support Group
Dates: Wednesdays 4:30 – 6:00 pm
Meetings are held virtually, call (707) 521-7785 for link and dial-in information.
Sponsoring organization: Sutter Health
All groups are free and you do not Need to be a part of Sutter to attend!
Facilitator: Ange Stephens, MA, LMFT
For those who have any type of stage III or IV cancer.
For more information contact Margie Tygerson at TygersM@sutterhealth.org or (707) 521-7785.
Later Stage Cancer Support Group (Stages III and IV)
Dates: Tuesday 10:30 am – 12 noon
Meetings are held virtually every Tuesday, except the first Tuesday of every month which is in-person
Sponsoring organization: Kaiser Santa Rosa, 401 Bicentennial Way
Meetings are for Kaiser patients only and are free.
Facilitator: Avery Figueroa, LCSW, Behavioral Medicine Services
Call (707) 393-5849 for more information or to register.
For those who have any type of stage III or IV cancer.
Each session includes an informal check-in and peer support.
Discussion topics include:
• Living with a cancer diagnosis
• Understanding and managing fears
• Learning new coping skills
• Exploring complementary medicine
For more information contact Stephanie S. Sánchez, MSW, or Zoe Wilder in the Oncology Department at (707) 393-3749.
Loving Someone with Cancer Support Group
Dates: Fridays 12 noon – 1 pm
Meetings are held via Zoom
Sponsoring organization: Providence
When a loved one has cancer, their life has changes and so does yours. Join others with similar experiences in this weekly support group led by a Providence licensed marriage and family therapist.
Meetings are FREE of charge for anyone in treatment, having had cancer or living life’s journey with cancer. You do not need to be a patient of Providence to participate, all are welcome.
Men’s Peer Support
Dates: On-going support via Zoom and phone
Sponsoring organization: Providence
Peer led
An on-going peer mentoring for men supporting their loved ones through cancer.
All meetings are FREE of charge for anyone in treatment, having had cancer or living life’s journey with cancer. You do not need to be a patient of Providence to participate, all are welcome.
Mindfulness Meditation Group
Dates: every Wednesday, 10:00 – 11:00 am
Meetings are held virtually, call (707) 521-7785 for link and dial-in information.
Sponsoring organization: Sutter Health
All groups are free and you do NOT Need to be a part of Sutter to attend!
Facilitator: Ange Stephens, MA, LMFT
This “drop-in: mindfulness meditation hour is available for those who have completed any of our mindfulness class series. A chance practice mindfulness in a supportive group. Join in whenever your schedule allows!
For more information contact Margie Tygerson at TygersM@sutterhealth.org or (707) 521-7785.
Moving On After Cancer Book Club & Support Group
Dates: 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, 5:00 – 6:30 pm
Meetings are held virtually, call (707) 521-7785 for link and dial-in information.
Sponsoring organization: Sutter Health
All groups are free and you do not Need to be a part of Sutter to attend!
Facilitator: Bob Heit, Peer Counseling Coordinator & Cancer Survivor
For those who have completed, or are completing cancer treatment.
For more information contact Margie Tygerson at TygersM@sutterhealth.org or (707) 521-7785.
Dates: 2nd Friday each month from 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Meetings are held via Zoom, call (707) 836-0913 for link and dial-in information.
Facilitator: Bob Ensten myelomastompers@comcast.net or (707) 836-0913
For patients dealing with multiple myeloma, their caregivers, family, and friends.
For more information contact Bob Ensten at myelomastompers@comcast.net or (707) 836-0913
Outdoor Music Therapy
Dates: once a month, days vary depending on weather, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Location: Providence Cancer Care, 3555 Round Barn Cir #100, Santa Rosa
Sponsoring organization: Providence
Local musicians perform monthly outside treatment rooms, specifically for patients receiving treatment that day.
Patient Support Group
Dates: Thursdays 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Meetings are held via Zoom.
Sponsoring organization: Providence
Patient group support, led by a Providence licensed marriage and family therapist, Tonia.
There is opportunity to find emotional support and encouragement from others coping with cancer. This support group is led by a Providence license marriage and family therapist and is a safe place to share resources, learn new ways to manage fatigue and stress and explore ideas on the art of balancing life with a cancer diagnosis.
Classes are free of charge for anyone in treatment, having had cancer or living life’s journey with cancer. You do not need to be a patient of Providence to participate, all are welcome.
The Power of Healthy Eating
Dates: last Friday of each month from 1:00 – 2:30 pm
Meetings are held via Zoom.
Sponsoring organization: Providence
Led by a registered dietitian/nutritionist, this nutrition group will discuss the benefits of a well-balanced diet.
All meetings are free of charge for anyone in treatment, having had cancer or living life’s journey with cancer. You do not need to be a patient of Providence to participate, all are welcome.
Prostate Cancer Support Group
Dates: 1st Monday of each month, 1:00 – 3:00 pm
Meetings are held virtually, call (707) 521-7785 for link and dial-in information.
Sponsoring organization: Sutter Health
All groups are free and you do not need to be a part of Sutter to attend!
Facilitator: Bob Cobb, MSW & Cancer Survivor
Get important information and meet men who are living successfully and well with cancer. Partners welcome.
For more information contact Margie Tygerson at TygersM@sutterhealth.org or (707) 521-7785.
Qigong
Dates: Fridays 12:00 – 12:45 pm
Sponsoring organization: Parkpoint Health Clubs
Location: Parkpoint Healdsburg, 195 Foss Creek Circle, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Facilitator: Janet Seaforth
Cost: $50 for non-Parkpoint members; donations appreciated from Parkpoint members
Parkpoint Health Club is partnering with the North Bay Cancer Alliance to offer Cancer Wellness programming at their Healdsburg location. The program is eight weeks in length. Regular physical activity can help reduce fatigue, depression and anxiety while maintaining or improving physical function.
For more information contact Jan Blalock at jan@parkpointhealthclub.com or (707) 385-2500.
Qigong
Dates: Mondays 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Meetings are held via Zoom.
Sponsoring organization: Providence
A practice using healing sound, meditative movement to promote a deeper sense of peace, well-being and balance.
Classes are free of charge for anyone in treatment, having had cancer or living life’s journey with cancer. You do not need to be a patient of Providence to participate, all are welcome.
Sound Healing and Meditation
Dates: Wednesdays from 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Meetings are held via Zoom.
Sponsoring organization: Providence
Sound therapy to promote wellness and healing through gentle movement, a sound journey using a variety of instruments and guided meditation. Featuring local musicians, Sarah Jenness and David Sloves.
Spanish Speaking Women’s Cancer Support Group
Dates: 4th Wednesday of each month (unless otherwise stated), 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Meetings are held virtually, call (707) 521-7785 for link and dial-in information.
Sponsoring organization: Sutter Health
All groups are free and you do not need to be a part of Sutter to attend!
Facilitators: Marcia Gomez, LCSW, Certified Gottman Therapist & Ale Dinkel, Cancer Survivor
For Spanish speaking women with any type and any stage of cancer.
For more information contact Margie Tygerson at TygersM@sutterhealth.org or (707) 521-7785.
Grupo de Apoyo Para Mujeres Con Cualquier Tipo de Cáncer (en Español)
Cuarto miércoles de cada mes, 6:00-7:30 pm
El costo de grupos de apoyo es gratis. Todos son bienvenidos: No tiene que pertenecer a Sutter para asistir.
Dirigido por Marcia Gomez, LCSW, Terapeuta Certificada de Gottman
Special Wishes
Ongoing
Sponsoring organization: Providence
Special wishes granted for patients at a difficult point in cancer journey.
Survivorship Speaker Series
Dates: Approximately every month. Call to find out about our next scheduled session.
Meetings are held virtually, call (707) 521-7785 for link and dial-in information.
Sponsoring organization: Sutter Health
All groups are free and you do not need to be a part of Sutter to attend!
Presentations offered approximately every month on a variety of cancer-related topics.
For more information contact Margie Tygerson at TygersM@sutterhealth.org or (707) 521-7785.
Travel the World from Home
Periodic meetings are held via Zoom.
Sponsoring organization: Providence
For more information contact Sharon Doughty at Sharon.Doughty@Providence.org or (707) 791-7874.
Wellness Walks
Dates: Tuesdays just before 9:00 – 10:30 am (in-person)
Location: Parking lot of the Petaluma Senior Center, 211 Novak Dr., Petaluma
Sponsoring organization: Providence
Walks are free for anyone in treatment, having had cancer or living life’s journey with cancer.
For more information call or email Ronda at ronda.bunker@providence.org or (707) 790-8061
or Sharon Doughty at Sharon.Doughty@Providence.org or (707) 791-7874.
Yoga for Cancer: Level One Breathe & Flow
Dates: Beginning August 15, 2023, Thursdays 9:15 – 10:30 am and Saturdays 11:00 – 12:15 am
Heart and Soul Yoga, 1575 Mountain View Ave. Petaluma, CA 94952
Cost: suggested amount for each class is $15, but please pay what you can. Some pay less and some pay more, all are welcome. Any contribution over $15 will go directly to sustaining our Yoga 4 Cancer classes by helping to subsidize other patients and survivors in need.
Pre-registration is required – no drops ins
Level One Breathe & Flow is enriched with breath and movement. With the use of blocks, props, and modifications this class typically begins seated on the floor, moves to an active standing flow before returning to the floor for a restorative and relaxing wind-down. No previous experience is needed. All are welcome
With a deeper knowledge and understanding of the holistic impacts of cancer, Heart and Soul Oncology yoga classes are thoughtfully designed to support the physical and emotional needs of patients and survivors and are offered as a complimentary and integrative therapy to your current medical treatment. Classes are enriched with breath and mindful movement to reduce stress and anxiety and set off a relaxation response in the body. And while classes have gentle and restorative elements they are also an active practice, where in each person is encouraged to work within their energy and ability level. Classes are designed with the intention of helping you increase your energy, build back lost muscle and bone strength, move lymphatic fluid through the body and boost your immune system and much much more!
For more information go to heartandsoulyogapetaluma.com or contact Susan O’Toole at (415) 572-0077.
Yoga for Cancer: Level Two Rise and Shine
Dates: Beginning August 15, 2023, Tuesdays 9:15 – 10:30 am
Heart and Soul Yoga, 1575 Mountain View Ave. Petaluma, CA 94952
Cost: suggested amount for each class is $15, but please pay what you can. Some pay less and some pay more, all are welcome. Any contribution over $15 will go directly to sustaining our Yoga 4 Cancer classes by helping to subsidize other patients and survivors in need.
Pre-registration is required – no drops ins
Level Two Rise and Shine is designed to offer all the same benefits of the Breathe and Flow class, but incorporating the comfort and stability of a chair, with the option to move to standing poses, before flowing back to the chair for a relaxing and restorative conclusion. No previous experience is needed. All are welcome.
With a deeper knowledge and understanding of the holistic impacts of cancer, Heart and Soul Oncology yoga classes are thoughtfully designed to support the physical and emotional needs of patients and survivors and are offered as a complimentary and integrative therapy to your current medical treatment. Classes are enriched with breath and mindful movement to reduce stress and anxiety and set off a relaxation response in the body. And while classes have gentle and restorative elements they are also an active practice, where in each person is encouraged to work within their energy and ability level. Classes are designed with the intention of helping you increase your energy, build back lost muscle and bone strength, move lymphatic fluid through the body and boost your immune system and much much more!
Young Adults Navigating Cancer — Support Group
Dates: Thursdays from 12:00 noon – 1:00 pm
Meetings are held via Zoom. In-person events are being planned.
Sponsoring organization: Providence
Join other young adults in this lunchtime support group, led by a Providence licensed marriage and family therapist. This group is primarily for patients 50 and younger.
- Share tips on balancing work and relationships as you navigate cancer
- Explore ways to manage and support children though your cancer diagnosis
- Reduce feelings of loneliness, anxiety and distress
- Learn new ways of coping with complex feelings and conditions
- Increase feelings of hope and empowerment
- Share resources and insights
Young Women’s Cancer Support Group
Dates: 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month, 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Meetings are held virtually, call (707) 521-7785 for link and dial-in information.
Sponsoring organization: Sutter Health
All groups are free and you do not need to be a part of Sutter to attend!
Facilitators: Mary Lou Carrington, RN, OCN & Mindy Ricioli, Cancer Survivor
Educational and emotional support for women 45 and under with any type and any stage of cancer.
For more information contact Margie Tygerson at TygersM@sutterhealth.org or (707) 521-7785.
Mendocino County
Dates: 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month, 4:00 to 5:00 pm
Call 707 467-3838 for Zoom link
Sponsoring organization: Cancer Resource Center Mendocino
Meetings are open to all, 100% free.
Facilitator: Tarra Benoist, LMFT
For more information contact Anya Jindrich at info@crcmendocino.org or (707) 467-3828.
Dates: 2nd and 4th Monday of the month, 11 am – 12:30 pm
Location: Yurt at Spirit House Center for Attitudinal Healing, 16550 Franklin Rd., Fort Bragg, CA 95437
Call 707 937-3833 for meeting dates
Sponsoring organization: Cancer Resource Center Mendocino
Facilitator: Ron Nadeau
Whether you are newly diagnosed, engaged in treatment, or dealing with post treatment concerns, Cancer Conversations offers a safe space to address what is true for you. Conversations will take place in-person.
Ron Nadeau is the founder of Spirit House Center For Attitudinal Healing. He recovered from stage IV Lymphoma in 2004. Ron brings 22 years of experience as a Chaplain and Hospice Worker offering Psycho-Spiritual Inquiry for individuals and groups facing life- threatening illness.
For more information contact Anya Jindrich at info@crcmendocino.org or (707) 467-3828.
Dates: 2nd and 4th Wednesday, 5:00 pm
Meetings are held via Zoom
Sponsoring organization: Cancer Resource Center Mendocino
Meetings are open to all, 100% free.
Facilitator: Harvey Baumoel, CRC volunteer
Our client-led book discussion Zoom group meets twice a month and is open to all. The group is currently discussing “Radical Hope” facilitated by CRC volunteer Daniel Pollesel.
For more information contact Anya Jindrich at info@crcmendocino.org or (707) 467-3828.
Dates: 1st Tuesday of each month, 4:30 pm
Meetings are held via Zoom
Sponsoring organization: Cancer Resource Center Mendocino
Meetings are open to all, 100% free.
Facilitator: Paul Otto, PhD
For men of any age with any type or stage of cancer. A safe, confidential space to discuss concerns and share experiences.
For more information contact Anya Jindrich at info@crcmendocino.org or (707) 467-3828.
Women’s Cancer Support Group (Zoom)
Dates: 1st and 3rd Monday at 11:00 am
Meetings are held via Zoom
Sponsoring organization: Cancer Resource Center Mendocino
Meetings are open to all, 100% free.
Facilitator: Tara Benoist, LFMT
For women of any age, any type or stage of cancer. A safe, confidential space to discuss concerns and share experiences.
For more information contact Anya Jindrich at info@crcmendocino.org or (707) 467-3828.
Women’s In-person Support Group in Spanish at our Ukiah Office
Dates: 1st Wednesday at 10:00 am and 3rd Monday at 2:00 pm
Cancer Resource Center, 275 W Gobbi St, Ukiah, CA 95482
Sponsoring organization: Cancer Resource Center Mendocino
Meetings are open to all, 100% free.
Facilitators: Marie McCurry and CRC’s Bilingual Patient Navigators
Led by Marie McCurry and CRC’s Bilingual Patient Navigators, our group provides a safe and confidential space for women of any age, with any type or stage of cancer to share their concerns and experiences. We meet twice monthly on the first Wednesday at 10 am and the third Monday at 2 pm. Refreshments are provided.
For more information contact Anya Jindrich at info@crcmendocino.org or (707) 467-3828.
Napa County
Living with Cancer Support Group
Dates: 3rd Friday of each month from 10:30 am to noon
Adult Activity Center, 2185 Elliott Drive, American Canyon, CA
Sponsoring organization: City of American Canyon
Meetings are open to people 50 or older
American Canyon residents pay $1 per meeting, non-residents pay $2 per meeting
If you are a cancer patient, survivor or caregiver please join us for our informal monthly meetings to share information and resources.
Drop in or register at (707) 647-5350.
For more information contact Ashley Logan at alogan@americancanyon.gov or (707) 647-4566.