Cancer circles

The intention of the writing circle is to enhance the physical, psychological, social and spiritual well-being of those faced with the challenges of cancer, cancer treatment and resuming life after treatment. Writing with a group of peers in a safe, respectful environment not only creates community and connection, but can also reduce stress and anxiety and bolster confidence and resiliency. These workshops are based on the Amherst Writers and Artists Method and use prompts as doorways into the writing. Participants may choose to write about their experience with cancer or anything else that is presenting itself since all of the stories we carry, fact or fiction, can be sources of healing and transformation. Community writing circles are equally beneficial for those who care for others, such as medical staff, teachers, caregivers and social service staff. It is vital for those who care for others to find ways to care for themselves and feel part of a supportive community. These circles provide the opportunity to connect more deeply with ourselves through our own writing as well as through the stories we hear in the circle. No writing experience is necessary. To sign up for any of the below circles, please contact Dawn at: DawnReneThompson@gmail.com or 503.568.6145

OHSU KNIGHT CANCER INSTITUTE, OHSU

PATIENT & FAMILY SERVICES

Circles for Women Healing from Cancer
Tuesday Mornings, 10am-Noon (on-going)On-line via WebexThis workshop if free of charge and open to any woman who has received a cancer diagnosis. You do not need to be an OHSU patient.
Circle for Young Adults Healing from Cancer
Wednesday Evenings, 6:30-8:30pm (on-going)On-line via WebexThis workshop if free of charge and open to any young adult (ages 18-39) who has received a cancer diagnosis. You do not need to be an OHSU patient.

Legacy Cancer Center

Words for Healing for Men and Women Healing from Cancer
First and Third Friday Mornings of each month 10am-NoonOn-line via ZoomThis workshop if free of charge and open to any woman or man who has received a cancer diagnosis. You do not need to be a Legacy patient.
Words for Healing for All Legacy Health Staff
Funded by Our Good Health & Well-BeingSecond Wednesday Mornings of the Month in 2024 skipping July & Augst10am-11:30pmOn-line via Zoom

What Participants have to say...

"I did not anticipate how meaningful the group would become or how central to my healing. Our cancer stories are shared without drama or expectation - woven into our life anecdotes - therefore integrated into our very beings, healing our very selves. healing our very souls." "The writing circle has been the single best way for me to process the emotional side of living with cancer. Something profound and sacred happens when this group comes together."
"Finding my voice again has been like returning home and setting off on a great journey all at once." "Writing group is far more than a support group. It's the highlight of my week. My fellow young adult writing group members are now my dear friends and I can't think of a more enjoyable way to spend an evening." "We give and receive hope, wisdom, strength, undestanding, and even love. It has made me feel more supported and less alone during the scariest year of my life."
"The opportunity to write about the cancer journey and my life has been inspiring, instructional, and spiritual. I find myself looking for writing promps everywhere, which translates into finding grace and gratitude in the midst of sorrow and suffering and uncertainty. The connection with other women writers is both supportive and inspirational. Especially during the pandemic, that connection is a sacred lifeline." "The writing group gave me somewhere to go. A reason to get up in the morning. A reason to get dressed. A reason to leave the house. A place of connection. A place of wisdom. A place of welcome. A place of peace..."

"We become a new story"

Writing from 48 women and men who have participated in the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute workshops held since 2012
"Sometimes I think my blood comes through my pen...Sometimes there are things that need to come out of me. Writing makes that incision and frees my inner self...I don't understand how anyone can live without writing." ~Kelly Walsh, participant
"We Become a New Story" can be purchased on Amazon or Barnes & Noble for $10
"Finding my voice again has been like returning home and setting off on a great journey all at once." ~Elena W. participant