The need for cancer support in Massachusetts is far greater than the reach of The Wellness Community – Greater Boston. The American Cancer Society estimates the incidence of new cancer cases in Massachusetts for 2007 at 34,920. With this in mind, TWC is looking towards increasing the availability of our services to more people in the Commonwealth. The introduction of TWC services at Dimock Community Health Center in October 2004, brought services to the population of the city of Boston, increasing our reach into neighborhoods previously underserved in the area of cancer support and education. Now, with the opening of two new TWC satellite facilities, our reach expands and makes it possible for many more communities to find the hope, friendship and inspiration that our programs provide.

In July, TWC at Sue’s Circle of Hope in Salem, MA and TWC at Pathways Center for Cancer Support in Hanover, MA will officially open. While regularly scheduled programs will begin in September, this summer we are inviting anyone who is interested in participating in programs, volunteering or contributing in any way, to visit and learn about TWC in these new locations. Come meet the staff, tour the facility and learn about how TWC hopes to serve the North Shore and South Shore communities and become a part of the fabric of life there.

Jerry Schwartz, Ph.D. is our new Associate Program Director for TWC – NS. Jerry is a clinical psychologist and comes to us with a wealth of experience working with people with serious illness. He is a long time North Shore resident (aside from an interlude in the California Bay Area), and is full of wonderful ideas and energy for TWC-NS.

Kathleen Armany, RN, BS, HN-BC is the Associate Program Director at TWC-SS. Kathleen is a registered nurse, with years of experience in multiple areas, including oncology and holistic nursing, program development, and group facilitation. Kathleen brings great strength to this endeavor, through her experience with Pathways Center for Cancer Support, familiarity with the landscape of healthcare on the South Shore and enthusiasm for the work of TWC.