From the moment of diagnosis, survivors and caregivers have an ocean to navigate! It's a sea of terms, procedures and countless demands. In search of wellness in the body, there is little time for recovery of the mind and spirit.
Expressive writing or "journal" writing is a powerful tool for healing the psyche. Using facilitated and/or structured writing exercises, thoughts and feelings are explored in order to sort, identify, and attempt to process the changes in their life.
Expressive writing as a tool, is an easily included but underutilized part of an integrated treatment approach.This project will partner with local San Francisco Bay Area treatment facilities, to build an expressive writing program. The project will provide
opportunities for cancer survivors and caregivers to utilize a variety of journaling techniques that are appropriate in infusion and waiting rooms, as well as enhanced opportunities in facilitated writing groups. Writing opportunities will guide participants
through exploration of thoughts and feelings, encourage self care, and provide coping strategies throughout all phases of recovery.
The book, Write Through It, will chronicle the development of this expressive writing program. It will allow readers to replicate a similar program from-- waiting rooms to infusion rooms, individually and in groups, using the participants' original works.
Write Through It, as an ebook, will be offered to any cancer program or clinic, free of charge. Participants, donors or any interested party may contact the campaign for inclusion into the distribution data base.
