In-Person Pancreatic Cancer Support & Networking Groups

Home Facing Pancreatic Cancer Resources, Support and Research Pancreatic Cancer Support Groups In-Person Pancreatic Cancer Support & Networking Groups

Connecting with other survivors, caregivers and loved ones in-person can be a wonderful source of support and encouragement for those dealing with pancreatic cancer.  In-person support and networking groups offer opportunities for people with pancreatic cancer and their family members to share experiences with others.  Most in-person support groups are guided and facilitated by a professional counselor, social worker or nurse.

The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network maintains a list of in-person pancreatic cancer-specific support groups across the United States.

While we do our best to keep this list up-to-date, it is not comprehensive.  We suggest calling ahead to each group of interest before attending, as some groups may require advance registration or there may be a change of time or location without notice.

ARIZONA

Cancer Support Community Arizona
Pancreatic Learn and Support Group
When: Second Saturday of each month, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Where: 360 E Palm Lane, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: 602-712-1006
Website: https://cscaz.org/programs-events/support-groups/
Schedule and Orientation: https://cscaz.gnosishosting.net/Events/Calendar
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This group welcomes patients, family and friends. If interested, reach out to Cancer Support Community to register, and make arrangements to complete orientation prior to first group meeting. Non-local participants are welcome to join virtually.

Mayo Clinic Cancer Center
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group
When: Fourth Tuesday of each month, 12 – 1:30 p.m.
Where: 5881 East Mayo Blvd., Classroom 3-102 (3rd Floor) Phoenix, AZ 85054
Contact: Raeane Veralud, MSW, LMSW.
Phone: 480-342-0005
Website: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/event/pancreatic-cancer-support-group-3/
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This group is open to the public and to ALL that are interested in learning more about pancreatic cancer. The group is psychoeducational and will have a featured speaker for the first half, and support for the second half of the group. Non-local participants are welcome to join virtually. This support group will be held via zoom. Please call Raeane for instructions and Zoom link invitation.

CALIFORNIA

Hoag Family Cancer Institute – California
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group

When: Every first Wednesday of each month from 1 – 2 p.m. PST
Where: Virtual – 1 Hoag Dr #41, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Contact: Diane Eadie
Phone: 949-722-6237
Website: https://www.hoag.org/education-resources/support-groups/
Note: This group is open to people living with pancreatic cancer and their loved ones. Facilitated by an Oncology Nurse Navigator and Oncology Social Worker, the group will provide an open and supportive space to share experiences, questions and concerns. Topics will include coping, relationships, treatment plans, dietary needs, and navigating the healthcare system. This support group will be conducted via Zoom. Instructions to join the support group will be emailed to you once you have registered.

Providence Holy Cross Medical Center
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group

When: Third Tuesday of each month, 5 – 7 p.m.
Where: Virtual – Zoom
Contact: Allyson Wreede, RN, Oncology Nurse Navigator
Phone: 818-639-5421
Website: https://psjhcrmwebsites.microsoftcrmportals.com/event?readableEventId=Pancreatic_Cancer_Support_Group_Sessions4131541753
Note: Group is meeting virtually. Open to pancreatic cancer patients and their loved ones.

University of California, Irvine (UCI) Medical Center – Orange, California
Chao Comprehensive Cancer Center
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group

When: First Tuesday of each month, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Where: 101 The City Drive South, Building 22C, Room #1502-B, Orange, CA 92868
Contact: Melinda Acosta Black, LCSW
Phone: 714-456-7057
Email: caps@hs.uci.edu
Websites: http://www.ucihealth.org/events/support-groups/pancreatic-cancer-support-group

Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. The group is for patients and caregivers. RSVP is requested but not required at least one day in advance. Participants are encouraged to join by video, if possible but can also call in if preferred. Participants from anywhere in California are welcome to join virtually, but group size is limited so RSVP to ensure a spot.

Cancer Support Community – Torrance
Pancreatic Cancer Networking Group
When: Third Monday of each month, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Where: 2601 Airport Dr. Suite 100, Torrance, CA 90505
Contact: Nancy Lomibao, MS LMFT
Phone: 310-376-3550
Email: info@cscsouthbay.org
Website: https://www.cscsouthbay.org/programs/weekly-support-groups/
Orientation: https://www.cscsouthbay.org/programs/

Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This group welcomes pancreatic cancer patients and their loved ones. This group provides a space for sharing and learning from the experiences of others. If interested, please reach out to Cancer Support Community to register, and make arrangements to complete orientation prior to the first group meeting. Participants from anywhere in California are welcome to join virtually.

Stanford Cancer Center
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group

When: Second Wednesday of each month,  2 – 3:30 p.m
Where: 875 Blake Wilbur Drive, 2nd Floor Conference Rooms CC2104 -- CC2105, Stanford, CA 94305
Phone: 650-743-4672
Contact: Jessica Lau
Email: JeLau@stanfordhealthcare.org
Website: stanfordhealthcare.org/events/gi-cancer-support-group.html
Note: Participants from non-local areas are welcome to join virtually. RSVP by calling to receive a Zoom invitation link. This group welcomes patients, family and friends.

CONNECTICUT

Smilow Cancer Hospital/Yale New Haven Hospital
Pancreas Cancer Support Group
When: Every Monday, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. EST
Where: 35 Park Street, North Pavilion, New Haven, CT 06511
Websites: ucihealth.org/events/support-groups/pancreatic-cancer-support-group
Contact: Social Work Department
Phone: 203-688-2195
Note: Here, you will find a warm comfortable place to listen to the experiences of others, to share your experiences when you are comfortable doing so, to ask questions, and to be helpful to others. Please call to receive a Zoom link. This group welcomes patients and their families. Participants from non-local areas are welcome to join.

FLORIDA

Lynn Regional Cancer Institute
Gastrointestinal Cancer Support Group

When: Second Thursday of each month, 4 – 5 p.m.
Where: Lynn Cancer Institute-Harvey & Phyllis Sandler Pavilion, 701 NW 13th Street, Boca Raton, FL, 33486
Phone: 561-955-6469
Website: www.brrh.com/Services/Classes-Events-Support-Groups/Lynn-Cancer-Institute.aspx
Note: Individuals can join via Zoom or by phone. Please contact the meeting facilitator for more information. Gastrointestinal cancer survivors and their families/caregivers are welcome to attend.

Lee Health Regional Cancer Center
Pancreatic and Biliary Cancer Support Group

When: Fourth Thursday of each month, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Lee Health Regional Cancer Center, 8925 Colonial Center Drive, Building A, Suite 1001, Room #1036, Fort Myers, FL 33905
Contact: Jennifer Snider, RN BSN OCN
Phone: 239-343-9502
Email: jennifer.snider@leehealth.org
Website: https://www.leehealth.org/our-services/oncology/cancer-support-groups
Note: Group is a hybrid meeting for convenience. Individuals can join via Zoom or by phone. Please contact the meeting facilitator for more information. To share support with others fighting pancreatic and biliary cancers.

GEORGIA

Emory Winship Cancer Center
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group
When: Third Tuesday of each month, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Where: Winship Cancer Institute at Emory, Building C – 2nd Floor Conference Room, 1365 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322
Contact: Frank Eady, LMSW
Phone: 404-778-5976
Email: frank.eady@emoryhealthcare.org
Website: winshipcancer.emory.edu/patient-care/living-with-cancer/support-groups.html
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This support group is open to current patients, survivors, and caregivers. Please RSVP with Frank prior to attending. Parking validation is provided for the parking deck at the end of the group.

ILLINOIS

Wellness House
Pancreatic Cancer Networking Group
This group is supported by the Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation
When: Fourth Thursday of each month, 4 – 5:15 p.m.
Where: 131 N. County Line Road, Hinsdale, IL 60521
Facilitator: Allison Wenclawski
Phone: 630-654-7203
Email: receptionist@wellnesshouse.org
Website: wellnesshouse.org/program/pancreatic-cancer-networking/
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This group welcomes patients, family and friends. Participants from anywhere in Illinois are welcome to join virtually.

Cancer Wellness Center
Pancreatic Cancer Networking Group
This group is supported by the Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation
When:  Second Thursday of each month, 5:30 – 7 p.m.
Where:  215 Revere Drive, Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: 847-509-9595
Website: www.cancerwellness.org/participants-and-families/support-services-counseling-groups/
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This group welcomes patients, family, and friends. Please call ahead to confirm meeting dates.

Northwest Community Hospital
Pancreatic, Hepatobiliary, Esophageal, and Gastric Cancer Support Group

When: First Tuesday of every month, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Northwest Community Hospital, 800 W. Central Road, Radiation Oncology (Lower Level of Hospital), Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Facilitator: Kim Jensen, LCSW, OSW-C and & Nicole Nichols, RN, BSN
Phone: 847-618-4968
Email: kjensen@nch.org
Website: https://www.nch.org/patients-and-visitors/support-groups-and-therapy/cancer-services/
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This support group is for anyone with pancreas, liver, bile duct, esophageal or stomach cancer, as well as their family and friends. Please RSVP to Vanessa Grazian at vgrazian@nch.org or 847-618-6660 to receive a Zoom invitation link to attend.

LOUISIANA

Oschner Medical Center – Kenner
Neuroendocrine tumor and Carcinoid Patient Support Group

When: Twice a year, Last Sunday of June and January, 3 p.m.
Where: Creole Room (1st Floor of Hospital), 180 West Esplanade Avenue, Kenner, LA 70065
Contact: louisiana.nets@gmail.com
Note: Neuroendocrine carcinoma is a rare type of pancreatic cancer, and this group is not intended for patients with adenocarcinoma, which is the most common type. Light refreshments will be served.

MARYLAND

HopeWell Cancer Support
Pancreatic Cancer Support and Networking Group

When: Third Thursday of each month, 4 – 5:30 p.m.
Where: 10628 Falls Road, Lutherville, MD 21093
Contact: Veronica Davis, LCSW-C
Phone: 410-832-2719
Email: cancerhelp@hopewellcancersupport.org
Website: hopewellcancersupport.org/programs
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. Adult family members are welcome to attend. Contact by phone or email for meeting details prior to attending. Non-local participants are welcome.

MICHIGAN

Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit – Royal Oak
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group
When: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 – 8 p.m.
Where: 3517 Rochester Road, Royal Oak, MI 48073
Phone: 248-577-0800
Email: info@gildasclubdetroit.org
Website: www.gildasclubdetroit.org
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This group welcomes patients, family, and friends. A new member must attend a virtual (by phone) New Member Meeting prior to attending these groups. Call 248-577-0800 to schedule a New Member Meeting.

Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit – St. Clair Shores
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group

When: First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m.
Where: St. Clair Shores, MI
Phone: 248-577-0800
Email: info@gildasclubdetroit.org
Website: www.gildasclubdetroit.org
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This group welcomes patients, family and friends. A new member must attend a virtual (by phone) New Member Meeting prior to attending these groups. Call 248-577-0800 to schedule a New Member Meeting.

MINNESOTA

Allina Health Cancer Institute – Minneapolis
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group

When: Third Tuesday of each month, 4 – 5:30 p.m.
Where: Piper Building, Suite 602, 913 East 28th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55407
Contact: Jill May RN BSN OCN
Phone: 612-863-1704 and 612-863-7387
Email: jill.may@allina.com
Website: https://www.allinahealth.org/abbott-northwestern-hospital/services/virginia-piper-cancer-institute/programs-and-services/pancreatic-cancer-program/
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. Non-local attendees are welcome to join virtually.

MISSOURI

The Cancer Support Community – St. Louis
Ann Arenberg Pancreatic Cancer Monthly Group
When: Second Monday of each month, 12 – 1:30 p.m.
Where: Cancer Support Community of Greater St. Louis, 1058 Old Des Peres Rd. St. Louis, MO 63131
Phone: 314-238-2000
Email: info@cancersupportstl.org
Website: cancersupportstl.org/get-support/our-program
Registration links and calendar: cancersupportstl.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/cancersupportstl/event.jsp?event=202246
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. Attendees exchange stories, treatment tips, and share concerns about quality of life, intensity of diagnosis, nutritional issues, and other effects of pancreatic cancer. Family and friends’ welcome.

NEW YORK

Wilmot Cancer Center
Gastrointestinal Cancer Support Group
When: This group occurs monthly
Where: 875 Hard Road, Suite 100, Webster, NY 14580
Contact: Patrice Rogers, LMSW
Phone: 585-275-5908
Email: patrice_rogers@urmc.rochester.edu
Website: www.urmc.rochester.edu/cancer-institute/cancers/pancreas/support-survivorship.aspx
Note: Group is a hybrid meeting. This support group is for those with pancreatic, colorectal, liver, esophageal, stomach, and other GI cancers and their partners.  

The Pancreas Center
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group

When: Third Tuesday of each month, 4 – 6 p.m.
Where: The Pancreas Center, 12th Floor – Dermatology Conference Room, 161 Fort Washington Avenue, New York, NY 10032
Main Phone Line:  212-305-9467
Website: http://columbiasurgery.org/pancreas/pancreatic-cancer-support-group
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This group is for patients who are receiving treatment at The Pancreas Center through New York Presbyterian Columbia University Medical Center, their family and caregivers only. Refreshments will be provided for in-person meetings.

OHIO

ProMedica Flower Hospital
Whipple Support Group

When: Meets quarterly, please call about upcoming meetings
Where: ProMedica Flower Hospital – Board Room: 5200 Harroun Road, Sylvania, OH 43560
Contact: Nichole Heller
Phone: 419-291-2671, 877-291-1441
Email: nichole.heller@promedica.org
Website: www.promedica.org/flower-hospital/pages/specialty-services/cancer-services-in-sylvania-ohio.aspx
Note: This group is free to Whipple patients, caregivers, family members and friends. Please call for meeting information.

PENNSYLVANIA

Cancer Support Community – Greater Lehigh Valley
Pancreatic Cancer Networking Group

When: Second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 10:15 – 11:30 a.m.
Where: 944 Marcon Blvd., Suite 110, Allentown, PA
Contact: Noelia Lightner or Jen Sinclair, LPC
Phone: 610-861-7555
Email: jsinclair@cancersupportglv.org
Website: www.cancersupportglv.org/get-support/programs/support-groups/
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This group addresses the unique needs and concerns of people affected by pancreatic cancer. Find support and information by meeting others who share your experiences. Family and friends are welcome to attend. Please call 610-861-7555 for Zoom link and registration information.

Cancer Bridges
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group

When: Second Thursday of every month, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Where: Virtual via Zoom or Cancer Bridges, 2816 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Contact: Colleen Dwyer and Christine Lee-Zirkle
Phone: 412-338-1919
Email: colleen@cancerbridges.org
Website: https://cancerbridges.org/
Note: Pre-registration is required. Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This group welcomes patients, family members, and friends. The group focuses on emotional support and educational topics. * Hybrid

RHODE ISLAND

National LBGT Cancer Network
Peer Support Group
When: Every Monday 4 – 6 p.m., Wednesday 2 – 4 p.m., and Saturday 3 – 5 p.m. EST
Where: Virtual via Zoom, 11 South Angell Street #377, Providence, RI 02906
Contact: Julius Simmons
Phone: 212-675-2633
Email: info@cancer-network.org
Website: https://cancer-network.org/programs/support-groups-for-survivors/
Note: Group only meets virtually. The National LGBT Cancer Network offers free support groups for LGBTQ+ people with a cancer diagnosis. They are held three times each week via Zoom. The group is facilitated by licensed social worker Julius Simmons. To sign up and receive instructions on how to join, visit  https://calendly.com/nationallgbtcancernetwork/support-groups?month=2021-11.

TENNESSEE

Kosten Foundation
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group
When: Second Saturday of every month, 10:15 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Where: Cordova Public Library, 8457 Trinity Road, Cordova TN 38108
Contact: Kathryn Gilbert Craig
Phone: 901-832-4782
Email: kgilbertcraig@comcast.net
Website: http://www.kostenfoundation.com/support-group/
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This group welcomes patients, family, and friends. Visit the website to access the Zoom registration link.

TEXAS

Methodist Dallas Medical Center
Pancreatic Cancer & Surgery Support Group
When: Second Tuesday of each month, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Where: Methodist Dallas Medical Center (call for meeting room), 1441 N Beckley Avenue, Dallas, TX 75203
Contact: Nurse Navigator, Jenifer Mallow, DNP, FNP-BC
Phone: 214-933-6601
Email: jeniferranft@mhd.com
Website: https://www.methodisthealthsystem.org/methodist-dallas-medical-center/medical-services/cancer-services/patient-family-cancer-resources/cancer-support-groups/
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. Patients and caregivers gather monthly to support each other and learn valuable information from guest speakers on a variety of health topics. Instructions and a link to join the Zoom meeting are mailed out to everyone who is subscribed to the emailing list. Non-local participants are welcome to join virtually.

VIRGINIA

Inova Life with Cancer
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group

When: First Wednesday of each month beginning October 2019, 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Where: Fair Oaks Cancer Center, 3580 Joseph Siewick, Lower Level, Suite 005, Fairfax, VA 22033
Contact: Karen Archer, LCSW, 703-391-3691, or Mary Kay Mecca, RN, marykay.mecca@inova.org, 703-858-6615
Website: www.lifewithcancer.org
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This group is only open to pancreatic cancer patients only. Registration is required. To register, please visit www.lifewithcancer.org or call 703-698-2526, 24 hours in advance of the meeting. Caregivers may join a Caregiver Connections group, but these are not pancreatic cancer-specific. Participants must reside in or, presently, be located in the DC, Virginia, or Maryland areas. This support group will be held via Zoom.

Tidewater Virginia Survivors’ Support Group
Pancreatic Cancer Support Group

When: Second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m.
Where: Jolliff United Methodist Church, 1900 Jolliff Road, Chesapeake, VA 23321
Contact: John O’Grady
Email: jogrady@pancanvolunteer.org
Website: virginiacancer.com/for-patients/calendar-of-events/pancreatic-cancer-support-group/
Note: This group is meeting virtually. Please email John O’ Grady for Zoom link.

WASHINGTON

Building Resilience
Educational and Supportive Workshop

When: Every other Tuesday, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Where: Virginia Mason Cancer Institute, 1100 9th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
Contact: Kathryn Swingle, MSW, LICSW, Oncology Social Worker, Jennifer Bryan, RN, BSN, OCN Pancreatic Oncology Nurse Navigator
Phone: 206-341-0930
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This workshop is for patients and caregivers facing pancreatic cancer. Please call Kathryn Swingle to register and receive the online Zoom invite. You do not need to be a resident of Washington state to participate. Non-local participants are welcome to join virtually.

Finding Connection
Pancreatic Cancer Caregivers Support Group

When: Every other Friday, 2 – 3 p.m.
Where: Virginia Mason Cancer Institute, 1100 9th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
Contact: Kari Hilwig, MSW, LICSW, Oncology Social Worker
Phone: 206-356-8547
Email: thresholdtherapeutic@gmail.com
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This group is open to pancreatic cancer caregivers only. Registration is required. To register, please contact Kari at thresholdtherapetic@gmail.com or call her at 206-356-8547

WISCONSIN

University of Wisconsin Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center
Gastrointestinal Support Group

When: Meets the third Wednesday of the month at 12 p.m.
Where:  Gilda’s Club Madison, 7907 UW Health Court, Middleton, WI 53562
Phone: 608-828-8880
Website: https://www.uwhealth.org/patient-guides/uw-hospital/support-groups/50423
Note: Group is meeting virtually due to social distancing recommendations. This support group is for anyone affected by a GI cancer.  The meetings will focus around educational presentations and mutual support.  Parking is free. Please visit the website for Zoom registration details.

We’re Here to Help

For more information on support groups or for free, in-depth and personalized resources and information on pancreatic cancer, contact a PanCAN Patient Services Case Manager.