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CancerCare’s staff of professional oncology social workers provide emotional and practical support to thousands of individuals and families during one of the most challenging and overwhelming times in their lives. In honor of National Social Work Month, we’re shining a light on the extraordinary relationship between an oncology social worker and those affected by cancer.

In honor of National Family Caregivers Month, CancerCare encouraged anyone affected by cancer to recognize caregivers by sharing a photo that represents this important role. We received a collection of inspiring and creative photos from across the nation.

I have been in the helping profession for a long time as an educator, volunteer outreach program director, interfaith minister, non-profit administrator and chaplain. During the aftermath of 9/11, I served as a volunteer chaplain helping families and survivors in crisis.

CancerCare CEO and cancer survivor Patricia J. Goldsmith will lead the webinar “Cancer in the Workplace: What Every CEO Should Know” on February 5, 2015 at 1PM EST. The presentation will look at how employers can support their employees affected by cancer while improving their bottom line.

For the third year, Caribou Coffee offered its Caribou Coffee Amy’s Blend collection of coffee, tea and merchandise from September 27 through October 31, donating 10% of all retail coffeehouse proceeds to CancerCare. The collection was named in honor of the company’s original roastmaster, Amy Erickson.

CancerCare social workers were recently honored for their contributions to the field of social work. Learn more about the oncology social workers at CancerCare who are making a difference in the lives of people affected by cancer.

Cancer. The word itself provokes a vast array of emotional responses: fear, anger, sadness, confusion. People are fearful of this diagnosis, of the way it can change someone’s life and the various “unknowns” that surround an individual and his or her loved ones.

Cancer is a difficult subject to talk about, and many parents coping with a diagnosis may try to avoid the topic in fear that they will upset their children. What to say about cancer, how to say it, and how much information to share are common concerns.

In honor of National Family Caregivers Month, CancerCare is encouraging anyone affected by cancer to recognize caregivers by sharing a photo that represents this important role. We want to know how being a caregiver, or being cared for when you needed it most, has impacted your life. Honor your family, friends, your pet, a health care professional or tell us how you were a caregiver – the choice is yours!

Communicating with a child whose parent has been diagnosed with a chronic illness can be both confusing and overwhelming. As CancerCare’s Healing Hearts Program Coordinator, Claire Grainger, MSW, LCSW works closely with families to help navigate these challenges. Based on her professional experience and expertise, Claire has written the recently published book, “My Daddy Sits Upon a Star.”