Support the Hamsa Wellness Community
In 2013, the J established Sharsheret Supports STL, a program of Nishmah, and a community partner of the national Sharsheret organization. Through personalized support and lifesaving education, this program has improved the lives of women and families living with or at increased genetic risk for breast or ovarian cancer.
Inspired by the success of this program, the J is proud to expand our focus and launch The Hamsa Wellness Community. This expansion allows for the continuation of our current activities while broadening our educational programming to address a broader range of hereditary cancers that impact both women and men. This also allows for the expansion of free psychosocial support to those facing a cancer diagnosis or at risk of developing a hereditary cancer. The Hamsa Wellness Community will focus on pillars of Connection, Hope, Education, Strength and Support.
The Hamsa Wellness Community will continue to be a partner of Sharsheret, providing access to all of the resources we always have had, with the added bonus of our own broadened community in the St. Louis region.
Contact
Debbi Braunstein, Hamsa Wellness Community Program Manager
314.442.3266
Events & Programs
Breast & Ovarian Cancer Monthly Support Group
This monthly group at the J provides support, connection and education to women in the St. Louis community who have been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer and are anywhere along their treatment path – before, during, or post treatment. The group periodically welcomes guests offering meaningful and relevant experiential activities. Facilitated by Kathy Bearman, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Newcomers (members and public) are always welcome along with female family and friends.
Third Wednesday of each month
6:15-7:30pm
Via Zoom until further notice
For more information, contact Debbi Braunstein, 314.442.3266
Yoga for Cancer
Yoga for Cancer is a research-based specialized yoga methodology addressing the specific physical and emotional needs left by cancer and its treatments. This method is gentle and restorative and focuses on movement and breath and the special needs of current cancer patients and survivors. Trained teachers adapt this valuable methodology to all cancer types and stages.
Virtual: Fridays at 11:30am-12:45pm taught by Emily Elizabeth Steinberg
This virtual class builds community and creates a safe space from the comfort and privacy of your home. Incorporates additional breathwork, mindfulness meditation and visualization practices alongside the gentle and restorative poses and practices.
In-Person: Thursdays at 4-5:15pm taught by Stacia Hanna (Staenberg Family Complex/Creve Coeur)
This in-person class builds community and creates a safe space while being together with other class participants. In addition to focusing on movement and breath, provides hands-on instructional opportunities to modify the gentle and restorative poses to accommodate individual needs.
Oncology Massage
Oncology massage is a specialized, non-invasive therapy that helps one manage the symptoms of cancer and side effects of treatment. It uses a light touch along with slow, steady movements, and is intended to help the body relax. A safe massage plan generally revolves around the side effects (both short – and long-term) of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery.
60-minute oncology massages provided by licensed massage therapist properly trained in oncology.
Pricing
$70 per 60 minutes
As a community partner of the national Sharsheret organization, we connect individuals to Sharsheret national so they can participate in a variety of free, individualized and confidential resources that include but are not limited to the following:
- A peer support network connecting women newly diagnosed or at high risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer one-on-one with others who share similar diagnoses and experiences
- Program for parents facing breast cancer or ovarian cancer while raising children or teens
- Services and subsidies for eligible individuals for non-medical services that are critical to a women’s quality of life and body image, and that are only partly covered by insurance companies, if at all
- Information and tailored resources for caregivers’ family members, and friends to help support their loved ones facing cancer
- Individualized support and survivorship kits for breast and ovarian cancer survivors
For a complete list of programs available through Sharsheret national, visit their website.
