What does empowerment mean to you? Does it mean giving someone the authority or power to do something… because that’s what you’ll find if you look it up? The word is not a new one – it originated around the 17th century and the meaning has remained largely the same. People have a need for a word that makes them feel that they are or are about to become more in control of their destinies, and this is especially true when faced with a cancer diagnosis at a young age. On Saturday, April 14th from 10:00AM-4:00PM, the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center will be hosting an event entitled, Get EmPOWERed: Life After Cancer for Adolescent & Young Adult Survivors.
At this inaugural event, young adult and adolescent cancer survivors will learn strategies and information to help them embrace life after treatment with confidence. Get EmPOWERed is an opportunity for everyone under the age of 40 who has been treated for cancer, including childhood cancer survivors who are currently 13 years of age or older, to share experiences and receive support. Family members, friends and caregivers are encouraged to attend as well!
Get EmPOWERed will cover a lot of ground so there is something for everyone. Topics that will be explored include: talking about cancer with important people in your life; coordinating follow-up medical care; managing stress and other cancer-related emotions; making good choices about exercise and nutrition; addressing insurance, financial, legal and other practical concerns; exploring options for building a family after cancer with fertility preservation patient navigator, Kristin Smith; managing pain and other effects of cancer; and helping caregivers to care for themselves.
The event is being held at the LaSalle Power Company in Chicago and there is a small registration fee for participants, which includes all the workshops and admission to a VIP after-party event at Gilda’s Club Chicago. This is a great event for the young cancer community so if you that sounds like you or someone you know, please come out and take part in this great event! For more information on Get EmPOWERed: Life After Cancer for Adolescent & Young Adult Survivors, including registration, please click here.