{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/698a47d141bb4de4910eed2d/6a91d13963de6f7b414807a9?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"The Power of Community and Hope in Cancer Support  with Stephanie Stern, LCSW-C","description":"<p>In this episode of <em>Insights on Aging</em>, host Steve Lorberbaum sits down with Stephanie Stern, LCSW-C and Program Director at Hope Connections For Cancer Support. A cancer diagnosis brings immense emotional and physical challenges—not just for patients, but for caregivers, spouses, and families. Stephanie shares how Hope Connections builds a caring community and provides 100% free, professionally facilitated support services across the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Key Topics Covered</strong></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><ul><li><strong>100% Free Resources:</strong> Professionally led support groups, mind-body classes (gentle yoga, Pilates, meditation, tai chi), and educational workshops available at zero cost to participants.</li><li><strong>Caregiver &amp; Family Support:</strong> Dedicated groups designed to help spouses, caregivers, and family members manage emotional stress and avoid burnout.</li><li><strong>Hybrid Accessibility:</strong> How programs are offered virtually via Zoom as well as in-person at their Bethesda and Landover, Maryland locations.</li><li><strong>Specialized Programs:</strong> Free wig services, \"Day of Beauty\" events, the Hope Chest Boutique, and community gatherings that lighten the emotional load.</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>Timestamps</strong> </p><p>00:00 - Introduction &amp; Welcome </p><p>01:58 - What is Hope Connections For Cancer Support? </p><p>05:10 - Mind-Body Classes, Support Groups &amp; Workshops </p><p>08:31 - In-Person, Virtual, and Hybrid Programs </p><p>11:12 - The Hope Chest Boutique &amp; Community Events </p><p>12:10 - The Founding Mission of Hope Connections </p><p>13:18 - How Donors Keep Services 100% Free </p><p>15:15 - Hair Loss Resources &amp; Free Wig Programs </p><p>18:18 - Support Groups for Men, Spouses, and Caregivers </p><p>24:50 - Why Nobody Should Face Cancer Alone</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Links &amp; Contact Information</strong></p><p><br></p><ul><li><strong>Hope Connections For Cancer Support:</strong> <a href=\"https://hopeconnectionsforcancer.org\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">https://hopeconnectionsforcancer.org</a> | (301) 634-7500</li><li><strong>Assisting Hands Home Care (Potomac):</strong> <a href=\"https://www.google.com/search?q=https://www.assistinghands.com/potomac\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">https://www.assistinghands.com/potomac</a> | (301) 363-2580</li></ul>","author_name":"Marianne Bailey"}