#9: After a cancer diagnosis with Inova Peterson Life with Cancer

What you’ll learn:A cancer diagnosis doesn't just impact the patient; it affects everyone who loves and supports them. Whether you're a caregiver, family member, or friend, the moment you hear that someone close to you has cancer, it can feel overwhelming.  In this episode, we explore what it means to navigate life when a loved one is diagnosed with cancer. We're joined by Jennifer Bires, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C, Executive Director of Inova Peterson Life with Cancer and a leader in psychological oncology with over 15 years of experience designing patient and family-centered support programs. Jennifer shares insights and actionable steps to help you be present, compassionate, and resilient – whether you are providing hands-on care or simply showing up in meaningful ways. Learn how the Peterson Life with Cancer team of behavioral health therapists, social workers, nurse navigators, and oncology dietitians are making support more accessible and why no one has to go through this alone. Featured guests: Jennifer Bires, MSW, LCSW, OSW-CExecutive DirectorInova Peterson Life with Cancer Key takeaways with chapter markers:How Inova Peterson Life with Cancer offers classes and support groups for patients, families and caregivers [1:50]Programs are offered at no cost and anyone can participate [3:30]Support for caregivers includes group sessions, fitness classes and nutrition counseling [5:40]Tips to help caregivers ask for the help and support they need [15:10]Ways to delegate caregiving across your support network to distribute the load [16:40]How friends and family can provide support in creative ways as needs change [17:51]FAQs:What is Inova Peterson Life with Cancer?Inova Peterson Life with Cancer, a program of Inova Schar Cancer, is a Northern Virginia-based nonprofit organization that offers free services to anyone impacted by cancer, including patients, their families, and friends. Services include educational classes, support groups, individual and family counseling, and complementary approaches designed to help those affected by cancer understand and cope with its impact. All services are provided by certified oncology nurses and licensed clinical social workers. Are the classes and programs only for Inova patients?No, although Peterson Life with Cancer is an Inova program, we offer our services to anyone impacted by cancer regardless of where you live and are/were treated. What is the cost to attend or participate?Services are free of charge. Peterson Life with Cancer knows that cancer and its treatments put a large financial strain on everyone impacted by the diagnosis and is able to provide services free due in part to the generous support of the community.