The Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of people touched by cancer. Starting in January 2019, we will be launching a Virtual Cancer Coaching Pilot Project for people in the Timmins area.

WHAT IS CANCER COACHING?

Cancer Coaching is a person-centered health service whose primary objective is to empower patients and their caregivers to enhance their own well-being and improve their quality of life. Some examples of the areas individuals/families are seeking help with are: managing stress/mood/emotions/relationships, understanding a diagnosis or treatment options; finding relevant information and resources, caregiver support, transition to post treatment life, returning to work, and grief and bereavement just to name a few. It is very much about teamwork and collaboration, with the client in the driver’s seat!

HOW DOES CANCER COACHING WORK?

You will be matched to one of our Cancer Coaches, all of whom are health professionals with a background in oncology, and can access up to 5 hours of one to one coaching, by video or phone. Through conversation, the coach will help you identify concerns/interests and establish goals. Coaches will work with you in partnership to co-create a customized health plan. Following the development of this plan, Coaches provide support, education, practical guidance and navigation assistance, to help you meet your health goals. We will work side by side with you to help make improvements that are important to you. All this is done from a distance, working virtually with your coach live from your own computer.

The Cancer Coaches are aware of what it is like to have cancer in Timmins and surrounding areas – the specific challenges you may face, the services you have access to and the medical system with which you may interact.
As part of the Virtual Cancer Coaching pilot project, participants will:

• Have a short assessment discussion over the phone upon registration;
• Have access to secure online video Virtual Cancer Coaching sessions over the course of a year;
• Have access to up to 5 hours of Virtual Cancer Coaching;
• Complete a health assessment survey at the beginning, middle, and end of the Virtual Cancer Coaching pilot project;
• Fill out an experience survey at the end of the program, and;
• Have a short interview over the phone at the end of the program.

HOW DO I REGISTER TO PARTICIPATE IN CANCER COACHING?

To access this Virtual Cancer Coaching pilot project, participants must:

• Have been diagnosed with cancer, are caring for a loved one diagnosed with cancer or are a bereaved caregiver;
• Live within the Timmins and surrounding areas;
• Have access to the internet and audio-visual devices such as a webcam, and;
• Are able to read and understand English or French.

If you meet the criteria above, we urge you to register for Virtual Cancer Coaching between November 1, 2018, and January 18, 2019.

Virtual Cancer Coaching is offered without a medical referral, and each person can access up to five (5) hours of Virtual Cancer Coaching thanks to the generosity of our donors and corporate partners.

If you are interested in working with a coach or would like more information, please contact our local volunteer, Gabrielle Fecteau at 1.855.247.3527 X 569 or by email at gfecteau@ottawacancer.ca.