Chair Massage for Patients, Families, Visitors and Staff

Chair massage is a 15-minute seated massage that focuses on your back, shoulders, neck, and arms.  You are fully clothed when massages are given.

$20 for 15 minutes

• We accept credit cards, checks, and gift certificates
• Gift certificates are available at the Stanford Hospital Gift Shop

Walk-ins welcomed.

Stanford conducts research called clinical trials - to evaluate new approaches to cancer treatment. 

For more information, contact us.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Finding current, reliable health information on the internet requires knowledge and skill.  Meet with a Stanford Medical Librarian to learn good research techniques and sources of trustworthy information online.

For questions or to schedule a one-on-one appointment with a call Medical Librarian at a location near you.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Experts help you experience relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress of a serious illness. No matter your age or stage of your illness, they work closely with you and your doctors to help you navigate your healthcare and understand your treatment options. Their goal is to help you gain physical, emotional and psychological strength, and ensure you and your family experience the best possible quality of life.

We welcome self-referral. 

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Wigs are available for women undergoing cancer treatment.  In partnership with the American Cancer Society, an experienced Stanford volunteer is on hand to personally assist in wig selection.

Registration recommended, walk-ins welcomed.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Helping a loved one through cancer treatment can be stressful.  The Caregiver Workshop gives caregivers and family members skills and resources to help:

• Understand cancer and its treatments
• Cope with stress
• Deal with changing family roles
• Meet the physical and emotional needs of the patient
• Improve their own mental and physical health
• Seek out and take advantage of community resources

Registration required.  See flyer for details.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Chair Reiki sessions help you relax, reduce stress or discomfort, and decrease pain. In this technique, while sitting in a chair, the Reiki practitioner either gently puts his/her hands on your shoulders, head and upper parts of the body or holds the hands slightly above your body in various positions to help your energy flow more easily. Reiki is very relaxing and often promotes a sense of peace and well-being.

The Stanford Supportive Care Program provides free classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all neuroscience patients regardless of where they receive their care.

Healing Touch is a relaxing, nurturing energy therapy provided by trained practitioners.  It promotes deep relaxation, stress reduction and has been shown to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy including fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, pain, lymphedema and peripheral neuropathy.    

Healing Partner
This program is personally designed for eight weekly Healing Touch Sessions with the same provider while you are experiencing cancer.

For more information, or to be placed with a Healing Partner provider near you, call 650-725-9461 or email cscphealingpartners@stanfordhealthcare.org.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Learn what every cancer patient needs to know about lymphedema - what causes it, the early signs and symptoms, how to decrease your risk, and what resources are available.

Registration required.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

The experience of living with cancer can be stressful mentally, emotionally and physically. Creating a regular meditation practice has been scientifically proven to reduce stress and anxiety. Come and receive instruction and practice in this blend of ancient wisdom traditions and modern neuroscientific research. Enjoy the peace and power of taking a pause in your day and learning valuable new skills that will serve you during treatment and beyond. Beginners welcome.

No registration necessary; just drop in.

Every Tuesday - Hoover Pavilion
3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
No class: 7/2, 9/3, 11/26, 12/24, 12/31

Every Thursday - Cancer Center South Bay
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
No class: 7/4, 9/5, 11/28, 12/26, 1/2/20

STARTING 9/16:
Every Monday - Redwood City Outpatient Center
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
No class: 11/25, 12/23, 12/30

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

If you are interested in learning more about nutrition as you begin treatment, this class is for you!   A cancer dietitian will teach you about nutrition-related side effects from cancer treatment.  This class is for patients who have been diagnosed in the last 3 months or are less than 2 weeks into their cancer treatment.  Patients and caregivers are welcome to attend together.

Registration required.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Quitting smoking is not an easy task.  The Tobacco Cessation Program at Stanford Health Care focuses on providing the latest comprehensive, individualized, evidence-based treatment to help patients quit smoking or tobacco. The Program is covered by most insurance plans (except MediCal) and includes: 

• One-on-one meeting to build motivation and develop an individualized treatment plan
• Group behavioral therapy
• Mindfulness skills coaching
• Support and education
• Streamlined referral for nicotine replacement therapy and medications 

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Stanford Health Care's Supportive Care Program and Department of Radiation Therapy are excited to offer a weekly class introducing cancer patients to the Radiation Therapy Experience. We understand that the news of needing radiation, in the fight against your cancer, can be frightening and stressful. Your radiation therapy team is here to ease your mind, guide you, and answer all your questions about the entire process.

Registration required.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

This class will demonstrate techniques for head scarf tying.  Bring your own scarf from home to practice with during class.

Registration required.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Are you or someone you care for about to start chemotherapy for the first time?  An experienced oncology nurse provides up to date information about your chemotherapy, biotherapy or immunotherapy along with a tour of the infusion center.

Class Presentation:

Managing and Understanding Your Chemotherapy (English PDF)

Cómo afrontar y entender su quimioterapia (PDF Español)

Video:

Oncology Nurse Chris Tucker Talks About Chemotherapy

Locations:

• Stanford Cancer Center
  Every Monday and Thursday: 2:00 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
  No class: 7/4, 8/12, 9/2, 11/28
  Registration preferred. See flyer for more information.
  
  
• Stanford Medicine Outpatient Center
  Every Tuesday, 5:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m.
  No class: 12/24, 12/31
  Registration Required.  See flyer for more information.
  
  
• Stanford Cancer Center South Bay
  Every Thursday, 3:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m. 
  No class: 7/4, 11/28
  Registration Required.  See flyer for more information.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Online Class

We know that there is a lot to think about and learn when you need radiation therapy. You may be wondering what radiation therapy is, what the experience is like at Stanford Health Care, and how to prepare. You may also be wondering how you will manage treatment along with work, school, responsibilities, relationships, and life in general.  

This is why we have created an online radiation therapy experience program to help you feel informed, comfortable, and confident with your external beam radiation treatment at Stanford Health Care. 

This program will answer many of your questions, including:

• What is the radiation therapy like at Stanford Health Care and what is the process?
• What are the side effects and how can I manage them?
• Why do I need to have a simulation visit and how do I prepare for that?
• Who will I see when I go for my radiation therapy?
• When will I find out my radiation therapy schedule?
• What should I do if I don’t understand something?
• How can I cope with the feelings and emotions that I have?

What you’ll learn

• What radiation therapy is and how it treats cancer  
• About radiation therapy experience at Stanford Health Care:
  - How to prepare for the treatment experience
  - What to expect and do during treatment
  - What comes next after treatment

Weekly classes to focus on core strength, functional movement and stability. The class uses bands and an individual’s own body weight to enhance range of motion, flexibility, balance and strength.

No registration is necessary, just drop in.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Practicing core stability can improve your range of motion, reduce musculature pain, improve back strength, and increase flexibility. The mindfulness aspect of this training renews energy, reduces stress and anxiety, and rejuvenates awareness of the body, mind, and spirit. This is the first step to regaining overall physical confidence and comfort.

No registration necessary, just drop in.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Gentle yoga postures are introduced to improve total body conditioning, increase mobility and range of motion, improve circulatory flow, and relieve muscle tension. These classes are for students who can get on the floor without help.

No registration is required. Drop in!

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Living Strong, Living Well is a 12-week small group program designed for adult cancer survivors who have recently become deconditioned or chronically fatigued from their treatment and/or disease. Our goal is to help patients build muscle mass and muscle strength, increase flexibility and endurance, and improve functional ability. We'll focus on reducing the severity of therapy side effects, preventing unwanted weight changes, and improving energy levels and self esteem. We also assist participants in developing their own physical fitness program so they can continue to practice a healthy lifestyle as a way of life. The ultimate goal is to empower adult cancer patients to improve functional capacity and to increase their quality of life through an organized program of fitness and strength. Advance registration is required.

• Program is held at the YMCA. For upcoming events plus YMCA addresses and directions, navigate to http://lslw.stanford.edu and look at "Upcoming Programs" on the bottom-right corner of the page.
• Certified fitness instructors trained by Stanford and the YMCA give personal individualized instruction to the participants.
• Classes are completely free. The YMCA provides the trained instructors, the facility, and the equipment.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

This mind/body conditioning program combines martial arts, modern dance, and yoga into a workout that is set to music. It empowers patients to connect with their body, mind, emotions, and spirit.

No registration necessary, just drop in.

 The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Experienced and certified exercise specialists are available to meet with you to develop an exercise plan. Sessions are one-hour and follow-up phone calls are included.  Registration required.

Every Wednesday - Cancer Center South Bay
11:30am, 12:30pm, and 1:30pm
No consultation: 11/27, 12/25, 1/1/20

Every Thursday - Cancer Center Palo Alto
10:30am; 11:30pm; and 12:30pm
No consultations: 9/5, 11/28, 12/26, 1/2/20

Every Friday - Redwood City Outpatient Center
12:30pm and 1:30pm
No consultations: 9/6, 9/13, 11/29, 12/27, 1/3/20

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

This deeply relaxing and restful class will use restorative yoga poses done primarily on the floor with the support of bolsters, blankets, blocks and chairs. Designed to nurture, nourish and renew the body, mind and spirit.

What patients say:

"For the period of time I am there, I feel calm and energetic.  You are surrounded by friendly people." - M. I.

"I would highly recommend Restorative Yoga, and have, to many friends going through cancer. I tell them it's a wonderful way to find peace in a storm and to be supported, both by the teacher and the place." - T. M. L.

"It gave me confidence to get back into group classes- look forward to coming whenever I can." - M. O.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Tai Chi is a slow, graceful and rhythmic exercise. It stretches and tones the body, increases strength, flexibility, and balance, and helps reduce stress and anxiety. The step-by-step teaching makes it easy to learn and follow. The friendly and positive atmosphere will help you achieve the goals of finding peace of mind and harmonizing internal energy.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Fundamental yoga practices such as alignment, steadiness, and breathing are designed to assist survivors in rebuilding strength, awareness, grace and balance.

No registration necessary. Just drop in!

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

At Stanford, we have treated over 1,000 acoustic neuromas over the last 20 years with surgery and radiosurgery. The Stanford Cyberknife Program is one the most active and experienced Cyberknife programs for acoustic neuromas in the U.S.

Acoustic neuroma, also known as vestibular schwannoma, is a slow-growing benign tumor that develops on the nerve that connects the ear and the brain. The tumor usually starts growing in the internal auditory canal, and presses against the hearing and balance nerves as it grows.

If you have been diagnosed with acoustic neuroma, and have questions or wish to explore treatment options and coping strategies with other patients and clinical experts, please join us for upcoming Stanford Acoustic Neuroma Support Group meetings.

The meetings are free of charge, and are a great resource for patient education and resources available to acoustic neuroma patients and families. Support group meetings will be co-moderated by acoustic neuroma patients. The meetings consist of 20 minutes speaker presentation, 20 minutes patients' presentations of their own experiences, and open forum for discussion. Also, leading Stanford Neurosurgeon and acoustic neuroma expert Steven D. Chang, MD, will join for a Q&A session at the end of each meeting.

Past Talks:

Nov 6, 2019: "Acoustic Neuroma Panel Discussion" with Steven Chang, MD and Antonio Meola, MD

May 1, 2019: "Controversies in the Diagnosis and Management of Acoustic Neuromas" by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

Feb 6, 2019: "Balance therapy and treatment of balance related issues secondary to Acoustic Neuromas" by Hiroyasu Sugihara, PT, DPT and Pamela Triano, PT, NCS

Nov 1, 2018: Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentations: Challenging Cases and Panel Discussion" by Gordon Li, MD and Antonio Meola, MD, moderated by Steven D. Chang, MD

May 3, 2018: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentation and Panel Discussion" by Geoffrey Appelboom, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, and Steven Hancock, MD, Department of Radiation Oncology, moderated by Steven D. Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

February 1, 2018: "Anxiety, Depression, and Coping with the Diagnosis of Acoustic Neuromas" by M. Bret Schneider, MD, Diplomate, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology

November 2, 2017: "Long term results of Cyberknife Radiosurgery for Acoustic Neuromas" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

August 3, 2017: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentation and Panel Discussion" by Geoffrey Appelboom, MD, Hilary Bagshaw, MD and Antonio Meola, MD, moderated by Steven D. Chang, MD

May 4, 2017: "Common Eye Problems and Optimal Eye Care Related to Acoustic Neuroma" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

February 2, 2017: "New data in the medical literature regarding acoustic neuroma treatments" by Steven Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

November 3, 2016: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentation and Panel Discussion" by Geffrey Appelboom, MD, and Navjout Chaudhary, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, moderated by Steven D. Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery

August 4, 2016: "Stereotactic Radiosurgery: Facts and Controversies" by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford

May 5, 2016: "Hearing Aids for Acoustic Neuroma Patients," by Matthew Fitzgerald, PhD, Chief of Audiology, Stanford University

February 4, 2016: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion" by Christopher Bilbao, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, and Clement Ho, MD, Department of Radiation Oncology. Moderated by Steven D. Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery.

December 3, 2015: "Balance Function in Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by Joyce Chadderdon, PT, NCS, Stanford University

October 1, 2015: "Myths and Facts Regarding the Management of Acoustic Neuromas" by Steven Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery

August 6, 2015: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion" by Christopher Bilbao, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, and Scott Soltys, MD, Department of Radiation Oncology. Moderated by Steven Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery

June 4, 2015: "Controversies in the Diagnosis and Management of Acoustic Neuromas" by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

April 2, 2015: "The Genetics of Acoustic Neuroma" by Achal Achrol, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

February 5, 2015: "The Advantages and Disadvantages of the Three Different Surgical Approaches for Acoustic Neuroma Surgery" by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

December 4, 2014: "Treating Balance Issues with Vestibular Therapy" by Joyce Chadderdon, PT, NCS, Senior Physical Therapist, Stanford Health Care

October 2, 2014: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion" by Gordon Li, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, and John Oghalai, MD, Department of Otolaryngology. Moderated by Steven Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery

August 7, 2014: "How Acoustic Neuroma Pre-Treatment Symptoms Respond After Treatment" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

June 5, 2014: "Current Status of Hearing Aids for Patients with Acoustic Neuromas", by Gerald Popelka, PhD, Department of otolaryngology, Stanford University School of Medicine

April 3, 2014: "The Role of a Neuro-oncologist in the Management of Acoustic Neuroma Patients" By Reena Thomas, MD, Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine

February 6, 2014: "Coping with the Diagnosis of Acoustic Neuroma", by Bret Schneider, MD, Psychiatrist and Consulting Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

December 5, 2013: "History of Acoustic Neuroma Treatments with a Q&A", by Dr. Robert Jackler, MD, Professor, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University.

October 3, 2013: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion"

June 6, 2013: "Questions to Ask Yourself When Seeking Treatment for Your Acoustic Neuroma", by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

April 4, 2013: "Understanding Radiation: What It Is and How It Works", by Iris Gibbs, MD, Associate Professor, Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine

February 7, 2013: "Causes and Treatments for Tinnitus", by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

December 6, 2012: "Common Eye Problems and Optimal Eye Care Related to Acoustic Neuroma", by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

October 4, 2012: "Acoustic Neuroma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion", by Iris Gibbs, MD, Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology; Nikolas Blevins, MD, Professor of Otolaryngology; and Gordon Li, MD, Assisstant Professor of Neurosurgery

August 2, 2012: "Dealing with Balance through Vestibular Therapy", by Joyce Chadderdon, Vestibular Physical Therapist

June 7, 2012: "Treatments for Acoustic Neuromas - Myths and Facts Regarding the Different Options" by Steven D. Chang, MD Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

April 5, 2012: "Anxiety, Depression, and Coping with the Diagnosis of Acoustic Neuromas" by M. Bret Schneider, MD, Diplomate, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology

February 2, 2012: "Current Status of Hearing Aids for Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by Gerald R Popelka, PhD, Professor and Chief of Audiology, Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University

December 1, 2011: "Nutrition and Nutritional Supplementation in patients with Acoustic Neuromas" by Alison Ryan, Registered Dietitian, Stanford University Medical Center

October 6, 2011: "Causes and Treatment of Headaches in Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by Dr. Michael Leong, MD, Assistant Professor, Stanford Pain Clinic, Department of Anesthesia, Stanford

August 4, 2011: "Update from the 2011 Natational Acostic Neuroma Association Meeting, Cincinnati, Ohio" by Dr. Scott Soltys, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford

April 7, 2011: "Controversies in Diagnosis and Management of Acoustic Neuromas" by Steven D. Chang, MD Professor Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

February 3, 2011: "Vestibular Therapy for Management of Balance Disorders in Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by Diron Cassidy, MPT Good Samaritan Hospital

December 2, 2010: "Tinnitus in Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by John S. Oghalai, MD Associate Professor, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Stanford University

October 7, 2010: "Hearing Tests and Hearing Aids for Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by Gerry Popelka, PhD, Stanford Audiologist

August 5, 2010: "Current Medical Literature on Acoustic Neuroma" by Scott Soltys, MD, Stanford Clinical Assistant Professor of Radiation Oncologist

June 3, 2010: "Balance Issues and Treatments in Acoustic Neuroma Patients" by Nikolas Blevins, MD, Stanford Associate Professor of Otolaryngology

April 1, 2010: "Current Treatment Modalities for Acoustic Neuroma" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Stanford Professor of Neurosurgery

Hosted by Northern Californa Amyloidosis

This group is for all amyloidosis patients in Northern California.  Guest speakers include our medical experts and researchers.

Join us in a supportive environment to share experiences, concerns, and knowledge of amyloidosis. Open to patients, families, and support. Available on a limited basis.

No matter what form of amyloidosis you have, it is a serious, life-changing disease. Little can be more important for patients and their loved ones than to learn from other patients and their families.

We are proud to collaborate with the Northern California Amyloidosis Support Group, comprised of amyloidosis patients and their families.

This group meets four times per year, allowing patients and their families to learn more about the disease, swap stories, and support one another.

Meetings are held quarterly from 10am to 2pm on a Saturday in these months and locations:

• January - John Muir Hospital Ball Auditorium in Walnut Creek, 1601 Ygnacio Valley Road
• July - John Muir Hospital Ball Auditorium in Walnut Creek, 1601 Ygnacio Valley Road
• October - John Muir Hospital Ball Auditorium in Walnut Creek, 440 Broadway, Room 2B

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

This group provides encouragement, hope, education, information, and support to all bladder and kidney cancer patients, family members, and caregivers. The group is available to those newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment, or recovering. 

No registration necessary, just drop in. 

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Open to patients with leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease, myeloma, or myelodysplastic syndromes. This group is designed to provide mutual support and education to members who could benefit from meeting with others whose situations are similar to their own. Caregivers, family, and friends are welcome.

No registration necessary, just drop in.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Weekly classes to provide patients and caregivers support, education and resources for physical, spiritual, psychological and nutrition related aspects during hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT).  The classes are facilitated by specialists in the areas of physical therapy, spiritual care, social work and nutrition.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program.

Come share your story, get important medical updates, and learn about coping with symptoms and psychological changes. This group is for patients and families.

Walk-ins welcome.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program.

We partner with Bay Area Cancer Connections (BACC) for our breast cancer support groups. BACC provides various support groups throughout the Bay Area to facilitate the opportunity for individuals to discuss their experiences, share ideas and provide support to one another. These groups and activities are voluntary associations of social support and are meant to encourage and inspire.

Support groups include:

• Breast Cancer Newly Diagnosed & In-Treatment
• DCIS
• Hereditary Cancer
• Metastatic Breast Cancer
• Online Breast and Ovarian Support Group via Zoom
• Ovarian Cancer Networking Group
• Recovery & Renewal
• Spanish Language Breast Cancer
• Young Women's Breast Cancer Group

A resource for both newly diagnosed patients and women living with ongoing treatment management issues.

No registration necessary, just drop in!

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

This group provides information and support to those newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment, or recovering from treatment. Family members are welcome.

No registration necessary; just drop in.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Open to patients with leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, myeloma, or myelodysplastic syndromes. This group is designed to provide mutual support and education to members who could benefit from meeting with others whose situations are similar to their own. Family support groups work in conjunction with a patient’s medical treatment. Caregivers, family, and friends are welcome.

No registration necessary; just drop in.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

This group offers encouragement, hope, education, and emotional support to all lung cancer survivors, family members, or caregivers.

No registration is necessary, just drop in.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Join us to learn about the latest treatment options, network with other meningioma patients, and find encouragement and support. Family members, caregivers, friends and interested persons are encouraged to attend.

No registration necessary; please just drop in! Refreshments will be provided.

The meetings are free of charge and co-moderated by meningioma patients. They consist of 20 minutes of speaker presentation, 20 minutes of patients' presentations of their own experiences, and open forum for discussion. Also, leading Stanford Neurosurgeon, Steven D. Chang, MD, will join for a Q&A session at the end of each meeting.

Benefits of attending a local support group include:

• Communicating in a nurturing, non-judgmental environment with others who have shared a common meningioma experience.
• Sharing information on dealing with specific problems, overcoming handicaps, and reassuring others that better times lie ahead.
• Educating and informing each other about the latest meningioma topics of interest.
• Providing emotional support to all patients, both pre- and post-treatment.

Next Talk:

September 4, 2019: "Coping with the diagnosis of a Meningioma​", by Bret Schneider, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

Past Talks:

March 6, 2019: "Different Radiation Options for Meningiomas" by Antonio Meola, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University.

December 6, 2018: "How to manage symptoms and side effects related to meningiomas and their treatment" by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

September 6, 2018: Canceled

June 7, 2018: "Tricks and techniques to managing meningiomas in difficult locations", by Steven Chang, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

December 7, 2017: "Headaches and seizures in meningioma patients: Presenting symptoms and Management strategies"    by Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford Neurosurgery

June 1, 2017: "Meningioma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion" by Steven Chang, MD and Geoffrey Appelboom, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

December 1, 2016: "New Developments on the Treatment of Meningiomas - News and Results from the 10th International Congress on Meningiomas, June 2016" by Steven D. Chang, MD Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

September 1, 2016: "New Advances in Radiosurgery for Meningiomas" by Geoffrey Appelboom, MD, Stanford University

June 2, 2016: "What causes Meningiomas to develop in the first place?" by Steven Chang, MD Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

March 3, 2016: Meningioma Case Presentations and Panel Discussions" by Clem Ho MD, Stanford Radiation Oncology, and Christopher Bilbao, DO, Stanford Neurosurgery. Moderated by Steven Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

Nov. 5, 2015: "Treatment Options for Memory Loss and Cognitive Problems due to Meningiomas" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

July 9, 2015: "What Does it Mean When You Have Multiple Meningiomas?" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

May 7, 2015: "The Genetics of Meningioma" by Achal Achrol, MD, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University 

March 5, 2015: "Meningioma Case Presentations and Panel Discussions" by Patrick Swift, MD, Clinical Professor of Radiation Oncology, and Gordon Li, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery. Moderated by Steven Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

January 8, 2015: "Managing Dizziness and Balance in Patients With Meningiomas" by Diron Cassidy, Vortex Physical Therapy

November 6, 2014: "Surgical and Nonsurgical Advances for the Treatment of Meningiomas and Other Brain Tumors" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

September 4, 2014: "When meningiomas turn bad: What does it mean to have an atypical or malignant meningioma?" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

July 10, 2014: "How hormones can influence meningioma growth, symptoms, and patient well being" by Lawrence Katznelson, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery and Endocrinology, Stanford University School of Medicine

May 1, 2014: "The role of a neuro-oncologist in the management of meningioma patients" by Reena Thomas, MD, Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine

March 6, 2014: "Meningioma Case Presenations and Panel Discussion, Including endoscopic surgical approaches" by Jayakar Nayak, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology; Gordon Li, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Neurosurgery; Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery

November 7, 2013: "Management of Headaches in Meningioma Patients" by Sheena Aurora, MD, Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine

September 5, 2013: "Which meningiomas should not be treated" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

July 11, 2013: "Meningiomas and Seizures: How to identify and treat seizures in meningioma patients" by George Nune, MD, Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine

May 2, 2013: A live tour of the Cyberknife at Stanford, followed by a discussion of the "Appropriate uses of radiosurgery for the treatment of meningioma" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Stanford University

March 7, 2013: "Common Eye Problems and Optimal Eye Care Related to Meningiomas and their treatment" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

January 10, 2013: "New Developments on the Treatment of Meningiomas - News and Results from the 8th International Congress on Meningiomas, November 2012", by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine

November 1, 2012: "Meningioma Case Presentations and Panel Discussion" by Iris Gibbs, MD, Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology; Gordon Li, MD, Assisstant Professor of Neurosurgery; and Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford 

September 6, 2012: "Hormones and their influence on Meningioma prevention and treatment" by Steven D. Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford July 12, 2012: "Anxiety, depression, and coping with the diagnosis of Meningiomas" by Bret Schneider, MD, Consulting Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Neurosurgery, Stanford

May 3, 2012: "Radiation for meningiomas - a discussion of the various types of radiation used to treat brain and spine meningiomas" by Iris Gibbs, MD, Associate Professor, Radiation Oncologist, Stanford

March 1, 2012: "Vestibular Therapy for Management of Balance Disorders in Meningioma Patients - How to treat balance problems and prevent them from returning” by Diron Cassidy, MPT, Physical Therapist, Vortex Physical Therapy and Balance

January 5, 2012: "Management of pretreatment and posttreatment headaches and seizures in meningioma patient" by Dr. Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford

November 3, 2011: "Nutrition and Nutritional Supplementation in patients with Meningiomas" by Erika Connor, Registered Dietitian, Stanford University Medical Center

September 1, 2011: "Meningiomas- epidemiology, symptoms, and treatment options" by Dr. Steven Chang, MD, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

Hosted by Bay Area Multiple Myeloma

A support group designed to facilitate the exchange of information between people living with multiple myeloma.

No registration is necessary; please just drop in!

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

This group is designed to provide mutual support and education to individuals with MDS. We will have monthly speakers on a variety of topics. Family members and caretakers are welcome.

No registration necessary; just drop in.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

A monthly support group open to all pancreatic and gastrointestinal patients and caregivers for education, balance, strength and support.

No registration necessary. Drop in!

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

The Cancer Supportive Care Program in partnership with Silicon Valley Prostate Cancer offers various support groups throughout the Bay Area.  These support groups give patients an opportunity to discuss their experiences, share ideas and provide support to one another.   Groups and activities are voluntary associations of social support and are meant to encourage and inspire.

Support groups offered by Silicon Valley Prostrate Cancer include:

• Prostate Cancer education and Support Group
• Advanced Prostate Cancer
• San Jose Prostate Cancer Support Group

Come and join our Sarcoma Support group to help build fellowship and connection between patients who have undergone similar life situations and experiences. Our goal is to provide a venue for patients to share their feelings, insights into their care, their home experiences, and families dealing with their care. It will also provide information from various speakers on selected topics. This group is open to patients, families, and their caregivers.

No registration necessary, just drop in.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »

A monthly singing gathering for Korean speaking cancer patients, their families and caregivers regardless of age and religion.

No registration necessary, just drop in.

The Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program provides FREE classes, workshops, fitness classes, services, and support to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their care.

View more classes and events at the Stanford Cancer Supportive Care Program »