Men: Surviving and thriving with cancer

It can be hard for men to be open and honest about their feelings. And when it comes to talking about a potentially life-threatening disease, it’s even harder.

But now, a new support group designed to help men lean on each for help, is hoping to break through the silence.

Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, Ill., has launched a group called, “Men: Surviving and Thriving with Cancer.” It’s goal is to help men who are newly diagnosed with cancer find support.

“Women are more open to sharing their problems. Men, on the other hand, don’t like to talk about their feelings,” says Robert Coe, counselor at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.

The program is designed to help men with all stages of cancer get out of their comfort zone and talk about their emotions in a safe setting as they seek to manage their stress.

“We often start by talking about anything from football to any diagnosis and treatment issues,” Coe says. “There is no set agenda.”

The counselor serves as a facilitator and encourages participants to contribute in the discussion.

“They talk about their treatment, their fear of death, their responsibility to their spouse and kids,” he adds. “Sometimes they just actively listen and learn from what they hear.”

Dr. Sigrun Hallmeyer, oncologist hematologist on staff at Lutheran General Hospital, is thrilled this program has come together.

“We’re happy to provide a neutral ground for men to exchange their experiences and talk about their fear and successes,” he says.

If you’re in the Chicagoland area and would like to learn more about Men: Surviving and Thriving with Cancer, call 1.800.323.8622. The support group is open to all cancer patients and is free of charge.