A diagnosis of cancer, especially a rare cancer like mesothelioma, can feel isolating. Taking advantage of the many national and local support groups available to people diagnosed with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases can help open the lines of communication, easing the emotional toll of diagnosis, providing information on available treatments, and helping patients weather the storm of potential side effects.

Many groups provide educational programs, counseling, and can be a good source of the latest information on mesothelioma. Family support can be an important part of a patient's treatment and health; many of the support groups provide resources to caregivers and other family members.

American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) Cancer Resource

This is a free information program from the American Institute for Cancer Research to help cancer patients and their families understand more about cancer, its treatment and the resources available to help them in overcoming this disease.

Cancer Care Counseling

Cancer Care offers free professional counseling individually or through professionally faciliated support groups. Both types of these services are available in three different ways: online, by telephone and on-site at a Cancer Care location in New York, Long Island, New Jersey or Connecticut.

Cancer Survivors Network

This is an online community, part of the American Cancer Society, is designed for cancer survivors and their families and friends.

Gilda's Club®, Inc.

Gilda's Club provides social and emotional support to cancer patients, their families, and friends. Lectures, workshops, networking groups, special events and a children's program are available.

Hospicelink

The Institute is an independent, not-for-profit organization, offers information about hospice and palliative care and can refer cancer patients and their families to local hospice and palliative care programs.

I Can Cope

This program through the American Cancer Society offers several courses that are designed to help participants cope with their cancer experience by increasing their knowledge, positive attitude, and skills.

Look Good... Feel Better

This program was developed by the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association Foundation in cooperation with American Cancer Society and the National Cosmetology Association. It focuses on techniques that can help people undergoing cancer treatment improve their appearance.

National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) Organization Database

Search the NHPCO database for a hospice and palliative care program in your area.

R.A. Bloch Cancer Foundation, Inc.

Foundation honoring one of the founders of H&R Bloch who had died from cancer. Their Cancer Survivor's Park in Kansas City is designed to "tribute the living" and empower those with cancer so they do not give up. Information on how to start hotlines and other cancer-related programs can be found on this site.

The SemiColon Club

The Colorectal Cancer Network's national support group. Find the branch in your area.

Stories of Hope

Through the American Cancer Society, inspirational stories of people whose lives have been touched by cancer.

Taking Charge of Money Matters

A workshop through the American Cancer Society that addresses money issues that arise during and after cancer treatment.

The Wellness Community

A free national program of emotional support, education and hope for people with cancer and their loved ones.