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
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 free 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 10.00am – 11.00am, free of charge
Experience first-hand how the tools of relaxation and mindfulness can help with the healing process.
Look Good Feel Better
Last Tuesday of each month, 10.00am - 12.30pm
A free program helping cancer patients to look and feel as good as possible during treatments. Bookings are essential.
Crochet circle
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.
‘It’s about us’ writing program
Workshops focused on developing a digital scrapbook filled with memories, emotions and feelings. For more information and bookings visit www.itsaboutus.com.au.
Cancer & Nutrition Workshops
Thursdays 1.00pm, August 31 - September 21
Free 4 week program presented by Four Seasons Dietetics, aiming to improve nutrition status to optimise cancer treatment outcomes, teaching foundations of a healthy diet and creating healthy meal plans.
Mindfulness photography workshop
Friday, 15 September, 12pm
Explore the grounds of the hospital and take in the beautiful visual possibilities of the world. No photographic experience necessary. You can use your phone, iPad or camera.
Navigating Grief
Mondays 11, 18 & 25 September - 1pm
This Bereavement Program is for all those who have lost a loved one to cancer. Registration is essential for the three webinars.
Let's Talk Gynae
Monday, 18 September, 11am - 12.30pm
During Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month we are hosting an education forum for patients, staff, family & friends. Registration 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 Thursday from 8.30am - 5.00pm, and on Friday from 8.30am - 3.00pm.
San Cancer Support Centre is located within Jacaranda Lodge, which provides low-cost accommodation for out-of-area patients and families.