Support Groups & Events
Attend enriching events designed to bring people together in a positive, welcoming environment. Meet with fellow cancer patients, survivors, family, and friends at Bliss Cancer Center.
Support Groups
You and your loved ones can receive and offer empathy to people who can relate to your experiences, building strength and community. You may also benefit from education and advice in a nonjudgmental setting. Support groups are typically free and facilitated by specially trained:
- Mental health therapists
- Nurses
- Psychologists
- Social workers
Courage in Motion
Courage in Motion is designed to be a pathway to hope and health for people who are currently undergoing cancer treatment or have gone through treatment in the past year. Contact the Cancer Resource Center at 515-956-6440 for details.
Bereavement Support Group
During a six-week program, families and friends experiencing loss from cancer or another condition may find help through sharing at the Bereavement Support Group. It’s offered free of charge three times per year at the Israel Family Hospice House. For information or to register, contact Mike Willer, bereavement coordinator, at 515-956-6038 or willer@mgmc.com.
Virtual Support Groups
Join a virtual cancer support groups, designed to provide comfort, community, and connection. Our professionally-led groups offer a safe space for sharing experiences and receiving emotional support.
Virtual support groups are a partnership between the William R. Bliss Cancer Center and Cancer Support Community, Iowa & NW Illinois At Gilda’s Club. For the most up-to-date schedule of virtual programs, visit the calendar of events. If you would like to view previously recorded educational sessions and guided wellness activities, you can access them in the video library.
Friends & Family Support Group
Wednesdays, 6:00 - 7:30 PM
This weekly support group is for family members and friends of individuals with any type of cancer diagnosis. Gain support and insights from others who are facing similar challenges. Participation is free, but a one-time Welcome Meeting is required before joining.
Register for the Friends & Family Support Group
Cancer Support Group
Thursdays, 6:00 - 7:30 PM
Our Cancer Support Group is for adults who have been diagnosed with any type of cancer or are navigating survivorship. Connect with others who understand what you’re going through in a supportive and guided setting. Participation is free, but a one-time Welcome Meeting is required before joining.
Register for the Cancer Support Group
How to Register
Registration is required to participate in these programs, a one-time Welcome Meeting is required before joining. Visit gildasclubqc.org or call 563-326-7504 to sign up or for more information.
Monthly Networking Groups
Networking groups are specialized groups which provide an opportunity for members to connect with one another about similar cancer-related issues or experiences. Current networking groups include:
- Breast Cancer Group: Support group for breast cancer patients and survivors. Virtual Option Available.
- Prostate Cancer Support Group: Support group with an educational component to support those diagnosed with prostate cancer and their caregivers. This group is offered in collaboration with the Greater Quad Cities Prostate Us Too/Zero Cancer Group. Virtual Option Available.
Cancer Companions
Cancer Companion is a free, peer-to-peer support program for people with cancer and their loved ones. We match you with a participant who has been through a similar experience, so you can have someone to talk to who understands what you’re going through.
If you’re interested in joining Cancer Companion and being matched, reach out to a Program Staff Members.
Writing Circle Wednesdays
For the writer in each of us, and offered to people walking the cancer journey.
Registration is FREE and required. Sessions are ongoing and held on Zoom from 3-5pm.
For questions and to register, email Ana McCracken at ana@ameswriterscollective.org
Don't think of yourself as a writer?
Watch and hear how writing helps, and what writing together meant to the Writing Circle Wednesday writers.
This program is produced in partnership with the Ames Writers Collective.
Community Events
Our cancer resource center is proud to participate in several community events throughout the year to raise awareness, provide education, and celebrate the strength and resilience of those impacted by cancer. These events include:
Ames Main Street Farmer’s Market
We join the Ames Main Street Farmer’s Market twice each year, where we connect with the community and share valuable information about cancer prevention, screenings, and local resources. Our booth provides educational materials, sun safety tips, and opportunities to learn more about our programs and services.
Sun Safety Day
Held annually at Furman Aquatic Center, Sun Safety Day promotes the importance of protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Our team educates attendees on best practices for sun protection, including the use of sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade.
ISU Dig Pink Volleyball Game
Each year, we partner with the Iowa State University for the Dig Pink Volleyball Game. This event unites the community to support breast cancer awareness and research. We host an information table and provide resources to promote breast health and early detection.
Survivorship Day
Survivorship Day is a special event dedicated to celebrating cancer survivors and their loved ones. We come together annually to honor the journeys of those who have faced cancer, sharing stories of hope and resilience. The event features guest speakers, interactive activities, and a chance for survivors to connect and find support within the community.
Dragon Boat Race
This annual summer event is for breast cancer survivors and supporters to train and race on the Life is Bliss team. To learn more, visit the Life is Bliss Dragon Boat Association website.
Contact the Cancer Resource Center at 515-956-6440 to learn more about upcoming or regularly offered events.
