Other groups step up with loss of Y-Me

As a cancer survivor and director of an agency in the field of cancer support and wellness, I was saddened to hear about the closing of Y-Me, a nationally-recognized cancer organization based in Chicago.

Although cancer survivors across the country will certainly miss the presence and support of Y-Me, it’s important to assure the public that cancer programs and services are still readily available, and a phone call away.

Wellness Place is a nonprofit cancer education and support center located in Palatine, with satellite offices in Crystal Lake and Arlington Heights. A member of the Cancer Health Alliance of Metropolitan Chicago, Wellness Place is one of five organizations that have joined together to offer resources and support throughout the Chicago suburban area.

Wellness Place serves those diagnosed with cancer, as well as their family and caregivers. All programs are free. Professional services offered include cancer-related counseling; family, child and adolescent counseling; art therapy; and grief and bereavement services.

Bi-weekly workshops are open to the community and led by experts in cancer and healthy living. Support groups, stress management programs and fitness therapies offer participants a long-term plan for maintaining optimistic perspective and healthy habits.

Wellness Place incorporates community involvement via events such as the Wellness Place Community Cancer Walk/Run in South Barrington, and the SEA Blue Prostate Cancer Walk/Run in Lincoln Park.

We know there are many who feel a sense of loss during this transitional time, and we hope they will reach out to organizations like Wellness Place for support. Please call us at (847) 221-2400 or visit www.wellnessplace.org. We are here to help.

Pam Reiss, executive director

Wellness Place