Hopewell Cancer Support

Sharing Hope and Community in the Face of Cancer

Cancer doesn’t just affect the body. It impacts every aspect of a person’s life. In the middle of medical treatments and physical challenges, the emotional and psychosocial needs of cancer patients and their loved ones often go unaddressed.

This is where Hopewell Cancer Support steps in, offering hope in the form of a supportive community for those navigating the complex journey of cancer. As part of Full Sail Media’s Changemaker Series, we had a conversation with Terry Weigel, Development Director of Hopewell Cancer Support, to help shine a spotlight on this remarkable Maryland-based non-profit organization that has been making a difference in countless lives for over three decades.

Introducing Hopewell Cancer Support

Founded in 1993, Hopewell Cancer Support has been a pillar of strength for the cancer community in Maryland. As Weigel explains it, the organization’s mission is to “provide a safe and welcoming community where people living with a cancer diagnosis can find support as they deal with the non-medical side of cancer. We focus on the emotional and psychosocial aspects—helping people navigate the trauma, anxiety, and depression that often come with hearing the words, ‘You have cancer’.”

How Hopewell’s Programs Provide Hope

Hopewell offers a range of essential programs designed to address the multifaceted needs of cancer patients and their families:

Support Groups:?Professionally facilitated groups for various cancer types, including breast, ovarian, lung, and blood cancers, provide a space for sharing experiences and mutual support.

Mind-Body-Spirit Classes:?Programs like yoga, Qigong, and meditation help participants manage stress and promote overall well-being.

Educational Workshops:?Expert-led sessions cover topics from nutrition to living with cancer, empowering participants with knowledge and coping strategies.

Family Programs:?The Family Circle initiative focuses on supporting children who have a loved one with cancer, helping them process their emotions and connect with peers facing similar challenges.

Expressive Arts:?Creative activities offer alternative ways to explore and express feelings associated with the cancer journey.

Weigel highlights the importance of these varied offerings: “We have a range of programs designed to meet the diverse needs of our community. We aim to create a space where people can connect with others going through the same type of cancer, sharing their experiences and supporting each other.”

How To Get Support If You Or A Loved One Is Affected?

Hopewell Cancer Support welcomes anyone affected by cancer—patients, survivors, family members, and caregivers. All services are provided free of charge, eliminating financial barriers to access. The organization has adapted to offer both in-person and virtual options, ensuring support remains available even to those who are immunocompromised or unable to visit the campus. Weigel emphasizes the inclusive nature of their services: “We never ask people to pay for our services, but those who can afford to often choose to give back. We believe in treating everyone equally, so whether or not you can donate, you’re welcome here.” You can find out more about each of their services here.?

How Hopewell Impacts Our Community?

The impact of Hopewell’s work is far-reaching. By providing free services, the organization ensures that support is accessible to all, regardless of financial circumstances. ?

The community-centered approach fosters connections that extend beyond the cancer diagnosis, creating a network of understanding and empathy.

“Success for us is primarily measured through attendance,” Weigel notes. “The fact that people keep coming back and bringing their loved ones with them is a strong indicator that we’re making a positive impact.”

Many participants find solace and strength in Hopewell’s programs during their darkest times, with some returning as volunteers or donors after their cancer journey, further enriching the community.

Help Hopewell Feel The Love At Their September Mini-Golf Tournament

Hopewell Cancer Support is excited to announce its upcoming fundraising event: a miniature golf tournament on September 21, 2024, at Mitchell’s Golf Complex in Reisterstown.

This family-friendly event promises fun, friendly competition, and an opportunity to support Hopewell’s vital work.

“We’re offering ‘Fan Flags’ for $25, which people can purchase to honor someone currently living with cancer or in memory of someone who has passed,” Weigel shares. “We’re also looking for hole sponsors—businesses can sponsor a hole for $250 and get their name and logo displayed on the course.”

The event will feature contests, prizes, and even a costume competition, making it an enjoyable day out for a great cause.

Supporting Hopewell Into The Future

With so many of our loved ones affected by cancer, Hopewell Cancer Support offers not just hope, but a home—a place where understanding, support, and community flourish. To ensure that support is there for those who need it, we also need to play our part in supporting Hopewell.

As they continue their mission, they invite all of us to join in supporting this vital work, ensuring that no one faces cancer alone. “We need all the help we can get to spread the word about Hopewell,” Weigel says. “Our services are available at no charge to those who need them, but people need to know we’re here. Whether it’s attending an event like the miniature golf tournament, volunteering, or just telling others about us, every bit helps.”

You can find out more about Hopewell Cancer Support by visiting their website here. And, don’t forget to come out to their Mini Golf Tournament on September 21st!

For our 2024 Full Sail Media, community changemaker calendar, we have partnered with 13 different organizations, all dedicated to making a positive impact in our community. Hopewell Cancer Support is our featured partner for the month of August.

Follow along every month to learn about our FSM Change Makers, and be on the lookout to order your 2025 Calendar.