Support services
Caring for you on every level
The San provides a wide range of support services for anyone affected by a cancer diagnosis, regardless of where treatment has been provided. Many of our services are free and all are provided in a warm, friendly, and informal environment where anyone is welcome. Please reach out to us if you have any questions or would like more information on our services.
Contact Information
Cancer Support Centre
Phone: 02 9480 9061
Email: cancersupport@sah.org.au
Counselling
Free counselling is available to anyone impacted by cancer, including San patients and their carers and loved ones. The centre has both male and female counsellors, and our counselling services are available 5 days a week.
Reflexology
San Cancer patients have access to reflexology appointments. Not only is this relaxing, but it can help with pain, treatment side effects, anxiety, sleep and general wellbeing.
Wig library
A variety of wigs and headwear is available to borrow throughout your cancer treatment. There are no charges – we just ask that you return the wig to us when it is no longer required.
Patient transport
This service is provided free of charge for those who need assistance getting to and from regular radiotherapy treatments at the San.
Resources library
The Cancer Support Centre has a wide range of resources covering cancer-related topics. You’re welcome to pop in, browse and borrow 5 days a week.
Support groups
Cancer support groups are available free to cancer patients, irrespective of where treatment has been provided.
Those who attend support groups often experience positive outcomes as a result of feeling less isolated, gaining knowledge and sharing experiences, and feeling supported and nurtured.
Programs
Yoga
Mondays 2.00pm – 3.00pm, free of charge
Research has shown that yoga can reduce fatigue, reduce stress, and improve physical functioning and sleep.
Mindfulness meditation
Thursdays 2.00pm - 3.00pm, free of charge
Experience first-hand how the tools of relaxation and mindfulness can help with the healing process.
Look Good Feel Better
Tuesday 27 May, 10.00am - 12.30pm (Women)
A free program helping cancer patients to look and feel as good as possible during treatments. Registration essential.
Crochet circle
Mondays, 10.30am (during school term)
An emotionally healing ‘doing’ activity, where you can create a piece of craft that represents your experience with cancer. All skill levels are welcome and all materials are provided. Bookings are essential.
MEN’S EXERCISE GROUP
Wednesdays, 1.30pm & Fridays, 10.00am (both during school terms)
A 45 minute class of gentle exercise & stretching with a focus on pelvic floor muscles. Registration essential
Cancer Nutrition Masterclass & Cooking Demo SESSIONS
Next session: Thursday May 15, 12.30pm - 2.30pm
Join Accredited Practising Dietician, Claire Ho for a series of interactive cooking classes.
Learn more and register here (cost involved).
Thursday May 22, 1.30pm - 3.00pm
Led by an award winning photographer, learn how photography is a creative outlet that can help identify the positive and the beauty that surrounds us during the toughest of times, promoting strong mental health and wellbeing. Bookings essential.
Oncology patient navigators
Patient navigators act as a point of contact for patients throughout all aspects of their treatments – coordinating care, and supporting and educating patients and family members. The San currently has patient navigators in the areas of Gastrointestinal, Prostate and Breast cancers. For referral to this service, please chat to your doctor or contact the San Cancer Support Centre.
Contact information
If you have any questions or would like more information on our services please phone the Cancer Support Centre on 02 9480 9061 or email cancersupport@sah.org.au.
Our centre is staffed on Monday to Friday from 9.00am - 3.00pm.
Please note: The Cancer Support Centre will be closed over Easter including Friday April 18 and Monday April 21.
San Cancer Support Centre is located within Jacaranda Lodge, which provides low-cost accommodation for out-of-area patients and families.