Friday, May 29, 2015

Caring Causes: Pillow Talk - Conversations About Cancer


In 2014, the American Cancer Society estimated 1.6 million Americans were diagnosed with cancer, the equivalent to someone receiving a diagnosis every 30 seconds. 1 in 10 households are affected by a cancer diagnosis, affecting not only the patient, but also family and friends.

Talking about a cancer diagnosis can be stressful, awkward or even frightening, especially when children are involved. Many parents coping with a diagnosis will avoid the topic altogether. 

On behalf of CancerCare, a national non-profit organization, and Bayer HealthCare I was able to learn about Pillow Talk: Conversations about Cancer, a free, at-home pillow decorating kit that brings together patients, caregivers, friends and families who collaborate to transform a blank pillow into a creative expression that showcases their special, personal relationships. 

Through CancerCare.org, 25,000 Pillow Talk Care Packages will be available for FREE to anyone touched by cancer. Kits will include tips and fact sheets to help initiate those difficult-to-start conversations. The use of art therapy can be a good way to start the conversation in a creative environment where people can express thoughts and feelings they might not otherwise be able to communicate. 

 



ABOUT AHUVA MORRIS:
Ahuva Morris is an oncology social worker who provides supportive counseling and resources to patients, caregivers, loved ones and people who have experienced the loss of a loved one. She is part of the CancerCare for Kids program and has provided outreach to New York City hospitals by giving presentations about CancerCare services, specifically for children. Ahuva is also a member of the Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW) and the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).

ABOUT CANCERCARE:
Founded in 1944, CancerCare® is the leading national organization providing free, professional support services and information to help people manage the emotional, practical and financial challenges of cancer. Our comprehensive services include counseling and support groups over the phone, online and in-person, educational workshops, publications and financial and co-payment assistance. All CancerCare services are provided by oncology social workers and world-leading cancer experts. To learn more, visit www.cancercare.org.

About Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc.:
Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc. is the U.S.-based pharmaceuticals business of Bayer HealthCare LLC, a subsidiary of Bayer AG. Bayer HealthCare is one of the world's leading, innovative companies in the healthcare and medical products industry, and combines the activities of the Animal Health, Consumer Care, Medical Care, and Pharmaceuticals divisions.  As a specialty pharmaceutical company, Bayer HealthCare provides products for General Medicine, Hematology, Neurology, Oncology and Women’s Healthcare.  The company's aim is to discover and manufacture products that will improve human health worldwide by diagnosing, preventing and treating diseases.

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