Resources & Support
Social Work Services
A cancer diagnosis can bring on new feelings and emotions. An oncology social worker can help people work through the new emotions as they travel the journey of living with cancer. The oncology social workers are important members of your health care team, and provide counseling, education and information services, and referrals to community resources for people with cancer and their families and friends. They can also help you navigate the health care system and find support to manage the day-to-day challenges of living with cancer. From adjusting to the new life of doctor’s appointments, testing and treatment, and understanding new roles and responsibilities, to accessing financial resources, to adjusting to life after treatment, the social worker is available to assist with these concerns and make referrals to outside agencies as needed. Call 334-528-1076 to speak with one of our oncology social workers.
Breast Health Navigator
A diagnosis of breast cancer can be overwhelming. From the fear of the unknown to navigating the health care system, the Spencer Cancer Center understands that it can be confusing and stressful. That is why we have on staff a certified breast health navigator to provide patient care that goes beyond the clinical. For more information, call 334-528-4370 or visit the Breast Health page.
Pastoral Care
Pastoral care is provided for the Spencer Cancer Center patients and families. Spiritual support can be a great source of strength and comfort in challenging times. The East Alabama Health chaplain is available to provide non-denominational pastoral care, support and counseling, and also works closely with community religious leaders of all faiths to provide you with pastoral services. The chaplain will be happy to contact your minister or spiritual leader for you.
For information, call 334-528-1415 or visit the Pastoral Care page.
Support Groups
The Spencer Cancer Center hosts various support groups for those living with cancer and/or cancer survivors.
Colons and Semi Colons
Colons and Semi Colons is a group created to offer support, inspiration, hope and healing for people who have experienced or who are experiencing colorectal cancer. The group meets the second Monday of each month from 5:30 - 7 p.m. at the East Alabama Health - Health Resource Center. For more information, contact Denise Pilato at denise.pilato@eamc.org.
Teal Magnolias
Teal Magnolias is a gynecological cancer support and education group. Their mission is to support women who are going through the journey with ovarian, cervical, uterine or other gynecological cancers. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at the East Alabama Health - Health Resource Center. For more information, email tealmagnoliasal@yahoo.com, or call 334-497-0417.
Advance Directives
Every day in hospitals across the country, treatment decisions are made for patients who cannot express their own wishes regarding their care. Today, federal and state laws allow YOU to choose what treatments you want and which treatments you would want discontinued or withheld should you lose your ability to make medical decisions.
Advance directives are forms you complete BEFORE a serious health condition arises which might render you unable to verbalize what types of treatment you would want or not want to receive. Advance directives, also known as living wills, allow you to make legally valid decisions about your future medical treatment. Even after signing these documents, you may change or cancel the documents at any time, but any changes must be written, signed and dated.
The Boutique at Spencer Cancer Center
Looking and feeling your best during treatment or as a cancer survivor is something every patient deserves. That’s why we are pleased to offer a boutique at the Spencer Cancer Center that carries a wide selection of bras, mastectomy prosthetics, wigs and accessories such as “chemo beanies” (slip-on headcovers), fashionable hats, and headscarves. Plus, for patients and visitors alike, The Boutique carries various books, gift items, snacks and drinks.
East Alabama Apothecary at Spencer Cancer Center
Conveniently located inside the Spencer Cancer Center, the East Alabama Apothecary at Spencer Cancer Center is a pharmacy that serves the medication needs of oncology patients at the facility as well as East Alabama Health employees and the general public. It can be found on the second floor of the Spencer Cancer Center. When entering through the main entrance on the ground level. the East Alabama Apothecary is to the right of the reception desk.