Battling cancer takes a lot of inner strength but it’s not a struggle people have to take on their own.
As a cancer survivor herself, Virginia Leifso has experienced the benefit of a cancer support group.
“It’s nice to hear that you’re not alone in dealing with cancer,” said Leifso.
Currently there isn’t a support group for cancer patients in the local community, but that’s something Leifso is hoping to change.
“I’d just like to put a call out to the community to see if there is any interest,” she said. “Is there anyone who has cancer who would be interested in being part of a group? What would that group look like? I’m open to ideas.”
Leifso said the process of connecting with others who have gone through treatments can be helpful.
“Seeing survivors who have come through is very comforting, especially if you’ve had a new diagnosis,” said Leifso.
It’s been 23 years since Leifso herself was diagnosed with breast cancer, and she said that her frustrations and fears were something only other cancer patients could relate to.
“You can really connect with each other,” she said. “Whether it’s the fear of another spot or the joy in successes.”
Leifso’s main goal at this point is to see if there is interest in a group for cancer patients in the community. A similar group for family members is also a possibility and Leifso is open to suggestions and assistance.
In addition to her interest in the support group, Leifso is currently the Community Contact for the Cancer Care Manitoba Breast and Gyne Cancer Centre of Hope. As a volunteer facilitator she has access to resources and information that can be helpful for cancer patients.
In keeping with the Privacy Act, Leifso is not able to take secondary referrals. She encourages people to pass her contact information on to friends and family who may wish to access information for themselves.
Anyone interested in a cancer support group can contact Leifso at [email protected] or by calling 204-687-8129.
