At the West Island Cancer Wellness Centre, we support everyone living with cancer—whether you’ve received a diagnosis yourself or are supporting someone who has. Supporters often put their own needs aside, but your well-being matters too. Our programs are here to help you avoid burnout, feel less alone, and connect with others who truly understand what you’re going through.
Supporters play a vital role in the lives of those living with cancer, often stepping in as emotional anchors, organizers, and advocates. But being there for someone else can take its toll. That’s why we offer dedicated programs created just for supporters—spaces to pause, recharge, and find connection with others who understand what you’re going through.
To find upcoming dates and details for these programs, visit our monthly calendar.
Supporter Workshop: Discover the Supporter Within
A space to reflect, recharge, and reconnect.
This educational workshop is designed just for supporters—those who often put others’ needs ahead of their own. In this session, you’ll explore what it means to be a supporter, learn self-care strategies to avoid burnout, and connect with others who can relate. It’s an opportunity to recognize your own needs, build resilience, and discover the many ways our Centre can support you on your journey.
Peer-to-Peer Support
Connect with others who truly understand.
Our peer-to-peer support program connects you with trained volunteers who have walked a similar path. These meaningful conversations offer emotional comfort, practical advice, and a safe, confidential space to share your experience. Please note that peer volunteers do not provide medical advice—but they do offer understanding, empathy, and encouragement when you need it most.
• The Centre offers services free of charge to people experiencing cancer – either having it themselves or supporting someone with cancer. Some of the programs and services offered include acupressure, reiki, support groups, nutritional cooking, private counseling, massage therapy, yoga, meditation and many more.
• Free online support groups led by an oncology social worker. They have a variety of support groups for supporters. They also have a 12-week telephone support group for supporters.
• OnCourage is an online tool that helps organize the community of people who want to help you. It coordinates their efforts to more efficiently support you and your loved one living with cancer.
• Hope and cope offers a variety of support groups and wellness workshops on subjects including exercise, nutrition, stress-reduction and creative arts. These services are open to people affected by cancer and their supporters.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive. For more resources please contact the West Island Cancer Wellness Center: (514) 695-9355.
