Gilda’s Club Chicago has partnered with the Oncofertility Consortium at Northwestern University (OFCNU) and Patient Navigator, Kristen Smith to host a Networking Group once a month designed for people who want to get together to share stories, ask questions, express concerns and get more information about starting a family after cancer.
The OFCNU unites professionals to research and study the methods and information important to patients in understanding what to expect looking into fertility options after a cancer diagnosis and/or cancer treatment. Patients work with a Patient Navigator – someone who works on individual cases with the patients and providers through all aspects of the fertility preservation process to discuss topics including:
- The effects, threats and potentially harmful interactions of life-preserving cancer drugs.
- Methods for freezing, storing and growing human tissue as well as in vitro options.
- Possible communication barriers between cancer patients, their supporters and physicians.
- Outside social influences that may sway individual decisions
- The role of health care practitioners, clergy and counselors in cancer-related decision making.
- Ethical or legal concerns that may arise at any part of the process.
- Fertility-related decisions involving families with a child diagnosed with cancer.
Next week, the OFCNU is hosting a conference to highlight the evolution of the science behind the fertility preservation process. It will examine the clinical and social sciences, giving patients and their families the best tools to understand what to expect in considering their options for future fertility. The conference will be held at the Prentice Women’s Hospital on September 12, 13, and 14. Click HERE for more information.
We’re thrilled to collaborate with the OCFNU, giving everyone the opportunity to have the conversation about oncofertility wellness and making a plan prior to undergoing treatment. Beginning in October, please join us at the Starting a Family After Cancer Networking Group on the first Tuesday of every month at the Main Clubhouse. Check out our website or call the Clubhouse for more details.
