Support Groups There are a number of well-documented studies that show a correlation between support group attendance and improved quality of life.  One study of women with metastatic breast cancer showed a significant improvement in survival time in those who attended weekly support groups vs. those who did not. Despite these encouraging statistics, however, many people hesitate to attend a support group.  For some, they wonder if it will be depressing or scary to be with a roomful of cancer patients.  However, at many cancer support groups, there is often much laughter and joking as well as exchange of practical information and genuine support.  In general, people who attend support groups are highly motivated to find healthy ways to cope.  The advice and stories exchanged between survivors is not only practical but also often inspirational.  At the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing at Central Maine Medical Center, we believe so strongly in the value of support groups that our doctors will often write “prescriptions” for their patients to attend one on at least a trial basis! Each of the support groups offered through the Patrick Dempsey Center is free and open to family members/friends as well as the patients themselves.  If you live in an outlying area and would like information about cancer support groups in your community, please contact your oncology social worker for assistance.