September 22, 2000

With a diagnosis of cancer, patients and families often experience a variety of emotions and sometimes an overwhelming feeling of loss and confusion. Many times, they may have questions or concerns about their diagnosis and treatment and may not know where to turn for answers.

To help support patients and families through the difficulties of cancer treatment, the MGH Cancer Center, in collaboration with MGH Social Services, created the HOPES (Helping Our Patients and Families through Education and Support) program three years ago. The program and its staff commemorate the third anniversary of HOPES this month and recently celebrated with an appreciation luncheon Sept. 13 for the committees that comprise the program.

At the luncheon, Bruce Chabner, MD, clinical director of the MGH Cancer Center, thanked all of the committees for their hard work with the HOPES program. "It is so important for us to continually enhance the type of care we give to our patients," he said. "This group keeps us focused on that effort and helps us to move forward."

For patients who come to the Cancer Center, the HOPES program offers a variety of resources, including the following: 

• The Cancer Resource Room offers walk-in access to information about cancer care, treatment and wellness and is a clearinghouse for MGH and community resources.
• Educational and wellness seminars are offered to patients and families on various topics such as clinical trials, eating hints and symptom management.
• Support groups offer an opportunity for patients and families to get support, share information and learn how others cope with cancer.
• The Network for Patients and Families matches current MGH Cancer Center patients and families with cancer survivors to help give current patients advice and support from someone who has gone through treatment.
• Patient education materials are collaboratively developed and distributed by staff to help patients understand their diagnosis and treatment.
• Complementary therapies such as yoga, relaxation/visualization techniques and acupuncture are made available to patients.
• Oncology social workers are available to provide individual and family counseling.
• A chaplain who specializes in helping oncology patients provides for the spiritual and religious needs of patients and their families.

Six committees oversee and coordinate all aspects of the HOPES program. The committees have representation from all disciplines within the Cancer Center, including physicians, nurses, social workers, physical therapists, dietitians and support staff, as well as some patients and family members.

"Everyone who participates in the HOPES program should be applauded for doing such a wonderful job," says Katie Binda, LICSW, director of the HOPES program. "These people do this work in addition to their day-to-day jobs, which also are so important to our patients."

HOPES committee chairs and staff at the appreciation luncheon. Back row, from left, Sally Hooper, LICSW; Mike McElhinny, MDiv; Katie Binda, LICSW; and Sue Andrew, LICSW. Front row, from left, Liz Johnson, RN, Debbie Essig, LICSW; and Joelle Reed. Not shown are Joan Agretelis and Lisa Sohl, RN.