Support Groups
The core values of Cancer Support Community (CSC) at Gilda’s Club Rochester focus on collective wisdom through a community setting, access to psychosocial care, respect and inclusivity, and empowerment for all people affected by cancer. Our support groups bring together people with similar experiences to help cope, gain insightful firsthand knowledge, and to share feelings and emotions in a safe environment.
CSC’s support groups provide the opportunity to talk through your cancer journey with the support of a qualified mental health professional and others struggling though similar experiences as you. Whether you want to ask questions about side effects of treatments, express your concerns about balancing responsibilities at home or work with physical health, or just listen, our support groups are here for you. All programs are offered at no cost.

General Cancer Support Group
Studies show that social support can help mitigate the stress and fear brought on by cancer by helping patients emotionally adjust and positively improve their well-being. From diagnosis to survivorship, your cancer journey can be frightening and taxing. This support group for all types of cancer is here to bring relief, share concerns, and maybe even some joy with others going through similar experiences. A licensed facilitator will help guide the conversation as you learn to cope and respond to cancer’s challenges.
This support group is offered:
- Virtually on Tuesdays from 12:30-2 p.m.
- Virtually on Wednesdays from 6-7:30 p.m.
- In-person on Thursdays from 12:30-2 pm
Prostate Support Group
The prostate support group is targeted for men who are looking to gain knowledge and share stories about their diagnosis, treatment, side effects, and emotional impact through talking and listening to others with similar experiences. Roughly 250,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year; you are not alone. Connecting with others may help you understand and cope with the challenges you face living with prostate cancer. With the help of a licensed facilitator, you can feel safe, supported, and guided while you listen to others’ experiences or share your own.
This support group is offered:
- 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month from 6-7:30 p.m.
Veterans Faced With Cancer Support Group
The Veterans Cancer Support Group provides a forum for individuals to share their experiences living with or surviving cancer and to connect through common fears, emotions, challenges, and overall journeys. A licensed facilitator, a veteran and cancer survivor herself, guides the conversation. This cancer support group is a safe space for veterans to cope with their cancer diagnosis, treatment, and beyond.
This support group is offered:
- 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month from 5:30-7pm.
Multiple Myeloma Support Group
Under the guidance of a licensed facilitator, the multiple myeloma support group gives a space to understand this diagnosis, treatment, side effects, and survivorship. Share your story or listen to others as you learn that you are not alone in this journey.
This support group is offered:
- 2nd Tuesday of every month from 6-7:30 p.m.
Survivorship Support Group
Whether you finished treatment yesterday or ten years ago, it can be challenging to manage the physical, mental, and emotional changes brought about by the cancer experience. In this group fellow survivors connect, empathize, encourage, and share their wisdom.
This support group is offered:
- 3rd Friday of the month from 10-11:30am.
Caregiver Support Group
Throughout a person’s cancer journey, friends, family, and caretakers often need support as well. This support group is made for friends and family. Here, they can safely share doubts, fears, challenges, frustrations, etc., under the guidance of a licensed facilitator.
This support group is offered:
- Wednesday from 6-7:30 p.m.
Women of Color Networking Group
This networking group is committed to connecting women of color sharing similar cancer experiences. Here, you may find emotional support, an open space to relieve stress, or an opportunity to feel joy and understanding.
This networking group is offered:
- twice a month from 6-7:30 p.m.
Youth and Teen Convene Program
Our Youth and Teen Convene Program provides support groups for youth impacted by cancer- whether it be a parent, sibling, or themselves. Kids and teens who do not fall into the specified age support group each week are welcome to play in our supervised play area known as Noogieland. Parents are able to stay in Noogieland with their children or we will have a dedicated space for them to socialize and network with other parents.
The Youth and Teen Group meet according to age group:
- 1st Thursday of the month - ages 7-10
- 3rd Thursday - ages 10+
Reach out to Angela Gonnella (585-423-9700 x304) directly for more information or to sign up!