For 35 years, Cancer Support Community Valley/Ventura/Santa Barbara has stood alongside those in our community fighting cancer, as well as their families, friends and caregivers. Their mission is to uplift and strengthen people impacted by cancer by providing support, fostering compassionate communities and breaking down barriers to care.
“I found a place where I could learn how to reduce the natural stress and anxiety from several surgeries, a multitude of tests and a year of infusions. I found a place where there were others going through similar experiences, and from whom I could learn that I wasn’t alone, and that I could be a survivor,” said Pat Thomas, a 12-year breast cancer survivor, describing what she found at Cancer Support Community Valley/Ventura/Santa Barbara over 10 years ago. During her first visit to her oncologist, the nurse handed her a brochure for Cancer Support Community, encouraging her to seek support.
Pat admits, “When my courage began to wane, I realized I needed some support and decided to see what it was all about.”
Conversely, her husband Bill, a retired Navy combat carrier pilot felt, “I don’t need no stinking group.” Bill tells this story often and now laughs at his first thoughts about a support group. Yet, after attending the Cancer Support Community orientation with Pat, she suggested Bill consider the Caregivers group, led by co-founder Marty Nason. Bill remembers that the group members became close friends over the 10 years he attended, laughing, crying and supporting each other through their challenges and worries.
On top of Pat’s diagnosis, the couple’s young granddaughter had just been diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a very rare cancer that develops in skeletal muscles. Their support groups became safe spaces where they could share their fears. Bill stated, “I needed a place where I could talk without worrying about upsetting Pat or our granddaughter and be able to work out my fears.”
Pat encourages others that may be hesitant to join a support group, “Just try it, for at least five visits. If it isn’t for you, that’s fine. If it IS for you, you will know quickly because you’ll feel stronger. Promise to give it a try and you will be glad you did!”
For women, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society. Breast cancer is also the second leading cause of death among women. Cancer Support Community offers a variety of breast cancer support groups: Newly Diagnosed, Advanced Breast Cancer and Life After Breast Cancer (all stages).
Joining a support group offers a powerful source of emotional support, understanding and empowerment for those facing this diagnosis. Whether someone is newly diagnosed, in early or advanced stages or adjusting to life after cancer, all programs are offered to anyone impacted by cancer. Through shared experiences and guided discussions, participants can reduce feelings of isolation, learn coping strategies and gain valuable insight into treatment options. Many also find renewed strength through active involvement in their recovery, stress‑reduction practices and access to community resources.
Cancer Support Community serves Ventura County, Santa Barbara County and the West San Fernando Valley, providing comprehensive, evidence‑based psychosocial support in English and Spanish. All services are FREE and include professionally-led support groups in English, Spanish and Japanese, individual counseling, social events, wellness classes and educational workshops. Cancer Support Community offers over 20 different support groups each month. Some groups are cancer-specific, but also offered are “all cancers” groups, as well as support groups for caregivers, our bereaved participants, survivors, family members and young adults.
Whether a participant is impacted by breast cancer or any other cancer, all of the support groups, wellness classes, educational workshops and support services are available to our community of cancer survivors, caregivers and family members. Together, group members build resilience, hope and a sense of connection on their path toward healing.
Several fundraising events help to fund these services, including Hope Walk, Caravan for Cancer Car Show and Celebration of Hope Garden Party. To get involved or learn more about supportive care services, visit cancersupportvvsb.org/ or call 805.379.4777.