Support Groups
For cancer patients and their families, often the greatest comfort comes from connecting with others who have walked in their shoes, who have faced the same challenges, and who can truly relate to the cancer experience.
At the UK Markey Cancer Center, our team of oncology social workers leads a variety of support groups that allow those affected by cancer to come together to share their experiences, learn more about the disease and its treatment, and support each other as they navigate the emotional and physical challenges of cancer.
Some of our current support groups are listed below.
Please contact the Oncology Social Work office at 859-323-2798 if you have questions about the status of any of these support groups.
SURVIVORSHIP
SUPPORT GROUP
YOU ARE NOT ALONE
Join us as we cultivate connection, hope and resilience together.
Life after cancer brings new challenges — and new opportunities for connection. This weekly support group offers a welcoming space for survivors to come together, share experiences and feel supported by others who understand the journey.
Whether you’re looking to share your story, listen to others or simply be surrounded by people who understand — this is a space for you. Together, we’ll build community, navigate life beyond treatment and support each other every step of the way.
FACILITATOR
Hailey Hudspeth, CSW
859-323-1403
MEETING TIME
Tuesdays, 11 a.m.–Noon
LOCATION
Whitney-Hendrickson Building
Third Floor Integrative Medicine Multipurpose Room
Virtual option available
RSVP REQUIRED
Please email or call Hailey Hudspeth to register or for more information.
BLOOD CANCER
SUPPORT GROUP
OUR BLOOD CANCER SUPPORT GROUP OFFERS A PLACE FOR CONNECTION
For cancer patients and their families, often the greatest comfort comes from connecting with others who have walked in their shoes.
Led by Psych-Oncology Services social worker, Julie Case Steffey, MSW, LCSW, the support group provides those impacted by blood cancer an opportunity to share experiences and support one another. Guest speakers offer treatment, side effect and symptom management expertise.
FACILITATOR
Julie Case Steffey, MSW, LCSW
MEETING TIME
Second Tuesday of every month
LOCATION
Online, via Zoom
REGISTER
Please call Julie Steffey at 859-218-2985 for more information.
KNIT TO HEAL
About: This monthly support group provides cancer patients and survivors with the opportunity to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of knitting while also learning and talking about cancer-related issues.
No knitting experience is necessary. New participants can learn basic knitting stitches and start a new knitting project.
Participants who already know how to knit can bring their current project or start a new one.
Knit to Heal is designed to provide a comfortable environment where participants can share their feelings, knowledge and experiences while engaging in the creative process. So come knit, learn from your peers and from staff, and possibly share your experiences as a cancer patient. Anyone can join at any time. All supplies will be provided.
Meeting Details: Second Wednesday of the month, 10–11:30 a.m.
Location: Virtual group, meeting via Zoom and/or In-person at Integrative Medicine & Health, Whitney-Hendrickson Building, third floor.
Facilitators: LeahShea Vance, CSW, and UK HealthCare physical therapist Beth Butcher and Markey Research employee Reva Bruns, both avid knitters, will provide knitting instruction and facilitate the group. Knit to Heal is designed to provide a comfortable environment where participants learn more about the cancer experience, can share their thoughts, knowledge, and experiences while engaging in the creative process.
To Register: For questions or to register, call 859-323-2156. A Zoom meeting link will be provided after registering for those joining virtually. (Pre-registration required).
LARYNGECTOMY
SUPPORT GROUP
DISCOVER YOUR VOICE
Have you had a laryngectomy? Are you adjusting to life after a laryngectomy? Or are you getting ready to undergo a laryngectomy?
Join us for our Laryngectomy Support Group at the UK Markey Cancer Center to connect with others who understand and share experiences, advice and encouragement.
You and your family can:
- Find support from those with similar journeys
- Benefit from the experiences of others
- Learn from guest speakers
Markey speech language pathologists and social workers lead the sessions.
FACILITATOR
Arica Rusco, MS, CCC-SLP
MEETING TIME
Last Wednesday of each Month
Noon – 1 p.m.
LOCATION
Whitney-Hendrickson Building
Third Floor Integrative Medicine Multipurpose Room
QUESTIONS?
Please email or call Arica Rusco.
arica.rusco@uky.edu
859-218-9082
CAREGIVER
SUPPORT GROUP
YOU DO SO MUCH. DON’T FORGET TO CARE FOR YOURSELF
Join our virtual support group for oncology caregivers, hosted by the UK Markey Cancer Center.
As a caregiver, you play a vital role for your loved one who has cancer. But it’s important to take care of yourself and receive the support you need, too.
The UK Markey Cancer Center’s virtual oncology caregiver support group is a facilitated, confidential space specially designed for caregivers like you.
Our group offers the opportunity to:
- Reduce feelings of isolation
- Connect with others navigating similar experiences
- Receive emotional support in a safe and understanding environment
FACILITATOR
Sessions are led by an oncology social worker and focus on shared discussion, coping strategies, stress management and practical resources for caregiving.
MEETING TIME
First Monday of each month, 3 p.m.– 4 p.m.
Beginning April 6, 2026
LOCATION
Virtual through Zoom
REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Use the link below to register. You can also email Amanda Muse-Hunt at amanda.muse@uky.edu.
