If you have any questions about our classes or workshops, contact us at loransmithcenter@piedmont.org.

Knowledge

• Hormone Therapy Class
  Facilitated by Sandy Pyle, BSN, RN, Oncology Nurse Navigator
  This class is for women on hormone therapy for estrogen receptor positive breast cancer (Tamoxifen, Arimidex, Aromasin, Femara, etc). In this class you will learn the science behind the treatment and discuss methods for managing side effects. Funding for this program is provided by It’s the Journey.
  RSVP required.

Movement

• Tai Chi Chih Class
  Tuesdays, 11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
  T’ai chi chih is a moving meditation that improves fitness of mind and body. It is easy to learn and can be done by people of all ages and ability levels.

• Yoga, Peace, Calm and Hope
  Fridays, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
  This ongoing, weekly yoga class is designed for the cancer patient. The class incorporates gentle movement in a nurturing environment. To help increase energy, remove pain, and recover strength.

Peace

• Healing Touch
  Individual sessions that focus on the energy system of the body to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and minimize side effects.
  By appointment only. 706-475-4900
   
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (Online)
  Facilitated by Mike Healy, Ed.D.
  Learn ways to reduce stress, lessen physical and emotional pain, and cope better with everyday demands. Second Friday each month. Call Mike at 706-248-8918 for more information.
   
• Oncology Massage
  Massage is available to cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers if available.
  By appointment only. 706-475-4900
   

• Breast Cancer Support Groups
  Facilitated by Sandy Pyle, RN, BSN, ONN-CG, Nurse Navigator and Hayley Wingo, LCSW
  A group for women with a diagnosis of breast cancer to share information, resources, and experiences. Second Thursday each month 5:30 pm. Funding for this program is provided by It’s the Journey.
   
• Grief Support
  Individual and group support for grieving children, adolescents, and adults.
  By Appointment call 706-475-4900
   
• Women's Cancer Support Group
  Facilitated by RNs Sandy Pyle and Robin Black
  A group for any woman with any type of cancer diagnosis. A group to discuss treatments, side-effects, coping, stress reduction and survivorship in a safe, confidential setting. Second Tuesday each month 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm.
   
• Illness Adjustment Counseling
  Individual sessions to address issues such as stress, anxiety, treatment decisions, and family communication.
  By Appointment call 706-475-4900
   
• Monday's for Men - General Cancer Support Group
  Fourth Monday every month: 12:00-1:00 p.m.
  A confidential setting for male cancer patients to discuss treatment, side-effects, and survivorship. Any man from any diagnosis, currently in treatment through long-term survivorship is welcome.
  Facilitated by Joel Siebentritt, LCSW
   

Sustenance

• Nutrition Counseling and Side-effect Management
  Individual sessions by appointment.
   

If you are a cancer patient at Piedmont Athens Regional, someone from the center will visit you during your stay.

If you are outside the hospital, you may contact the center at 706-475-4900 or you can visit the center in Athens at 240 Talmadge Drive. Parking is right next to the center.

In either case, you will have an opportunity to share your concerns and ask questions about support and services that would be helpful to your particular situation.

There are compassionate and knowledgeable staff and volunteers available to assist you with your questions and concerns.

Only cancer survivors truly know the fears and concerns you're experiencing. Many patients find a support group helps them learn more about their cancer and treatment. It can also help you gain more understanding of your own thoughts and feelings.

Many of us tend to think if we were strong enough, we can fix our own problems and deal with our own fears. That path can be lonely. Talking with other cancer patients helps, because they understand and offer hope and encouragement.

If you do not want to attend meetings or groups our Licensed Clinical Social Workers and nurse navigator are available for one on one consults by phone, telehealth platforms, and in person.

Regular workshops are offered in the community to educate people about screening tests and the risk factors of cancer. The hope is to increase awareness so we will be able to detect cancers sooner and increase the effectiveness of treatments.

The Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support also offers a series of free seminars, workshops and classes to cancer patients, families and friends. These programs are all designed to give people the tools they need, as they need them, to navigate their path during diagnosis, treatment and beyond.

All services are provided free of charge to any patient or family in our community through the Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation, a not-for-profit arm of Piedmont Athens Regional.

The center relies on the generosity of volunteers and benefits from their time and talents in a variety of ways. Many volunteers are cancer survivors or family members, others are interested people from the community, and still others are professionals who give of their time and skills.

The compassion and unique perspective of our volunteers enrich our quality of services. If you are interested in volunteering, call 706-475-4900 or email LoranSmithCenter@piedmont.org.

Our mission is to provide all the services of the center at no cost to anyone who enters our door. To assist us, individuals, families and corporations may donate in honor or in memory of a loved one. These donations may be designated for the endowment or direct patient services. For more information, call the Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation at 706-475-3301.