Survivorship Speaker Series

Cancer survivors and their caregivers are invited to attend in-person and virtual sessions that cover topics ranging from physical and emotional well-being to financial wellness following cancer treatment. Led by fellow survivors and subject matter experts from around our community, this series supports survivors’ well-being and resilience while helping them build a network of peers.

2025 Survivorship Series Events

All sessions take place from 5 - 6 pm. Unless otherwise indicated, all in-person sessions will take place in the Community Wellness Center on the fourth floor of the Outpatient Care Center. Information to access virtual sessions will be emailed to registrants before the event.

Registration is required as space is limited.

• Monday, March 24 | Peer Mentorship and Community Support
  This session will focus on survivor-to-survivor support and mentorship programs, with oncology social worker Rebecca Pisner facilitating the discussion. Survivors will have the opportunity to share their insights, followed by a group discussion to foster connections among survivors. The session will also emphasize sharing community-based resources to enhance support networks.
  Register for Peer Mentorship and Community Support.
• Wednesday, April 16 | “Chemo Brain” and Cognitive Rehab*
  This session will focus on managing memory issues, brain fog, and focus problems commonly experienced during and after chemotherapy, often referred to as "Chemo Brain." Led by Kristen Kanoff, a Speech-Language Pathologist at UM BWMC, this session will include brain exercises and memory games designed to help improve cognitive function.
  *This session takes place in the conference room on the first floor of the Tate Cancer Center at UM BWMC. 
  Register for "Chemo Brain" and Cognitive Rehab.
• Wednesday, May 21 | Survivorship 101: What Comes Next?
  This session will guide participants through life after cancer treatment, focusing on navigating the "new normal" and the emotional and physical changes that may follow. Facilitated by Kai Andrews, CRNP, Nurse Practitioner at the Aiello Breast Center, the session will include a goal-setting workshop aimed at post-treatment wellness, helping survivors develop actionable plans for their continued health and well-being.
  Register for Survivorship 101.
  
• Monday, June 9 | Chair Yoga and Stress Reduction*
  This session will focus on gentle movement, breathwork, and relaxation techniques designed to reduce stress and enhance well-being. Led by yoga instructor Kristin Frock, the session will include restorative chair yoga, standing poses, and breathing exercises, all tailored to support relaxation and mindfulness. Participants will also practice positive affirmations to promote emotional and physical balance.
  *This session is only available in-person in the Healing Garden at the Tate Cancer Center. If the weather is bad, we will relocate this session to the Community Wellness Center.
  Register for Chair Yoga and Stress Reduction.
  
• Wednesday, July 16 | Managing Pain, Neuropathy and Fatigue
  This session will explore effective strategies for managing chronic pain, neuropathy, and fatigue, which are common challenges faced by cancer survivors. Led by Marny Fetzer, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Hospice of the Chesapeake, the session will highlight how hospice and palliative care specialists play a crucial role in pain management and addressing the symptoms of neuropathy and fatigue. Participants will learn about supportive care options that can improve comfort and quality of life during recovery.
  Register for Managing Pain, Neuropathy and Fatigue.
  
• Wednesday, August 20 | Nutrition for Survivorship
  This session will focus on meal planning strategies that promote long-term health and help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Led by Christina Fowler, RD, dietician at UM BWMC, the session will feature an interactive "Build-a-Healthy-Meal" activity, where participants will learn how to create balanced, nutritious meals that support recovery and overall wellness. Attendees will leave with practical tips for integrating healthy eating habits into their daily lives.
  Register for Nutrition for Survivorship.
  
• Wednesday, September 24 | Financial Wellness After Cancer
  This session will provide valuable strategies for managing medical bills and navigating financial toxicity, with a special focus on resources available during the Medicare open enrollment period (October 15 – December 7). Facilitated by Bruce Morgenstern, a volunteer Medicare counselor at the Anne Arundel County Department of Aging and Disabilities, the session will include a resource navigation workshop, covering Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap policies. Participants will gain the tools to make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage and alleviate financial stress.
  Register for Financial Wellness After Cancer.
  
• Wednesday, October 15 | Mindfulness and Emotional Resilience
  This session will guide participants through the practice of mindfulness as a powerful tool to cope with stress, anxiety, and uncertainty during the cancer journey. Led by Phebe Duff, a certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) instructor, the session will include a combination of expert-led education and interactive activities, such as guided meditation, gratitude journaling, and mindfulness practices like breath exercises and mindful eating. Attendees will gain practical techniques to incorporate mindfulness into their daily lives to reduce stress and enhance overall well-being.
  Register for Mindfulness and Emotional Resilience.
  
• Wednesday, November 19 | Exercise and Movement for Survivors
  This session will explore the importance of movement in supporting recovery and enhancing overall well-being after cancer treatment. Led by Brandi Greene, a physical therapist at UM BWMC, the session will include an interactive movement session designed to help participants understand how physical activity can improve strength, flexibility, and mental health. Attendees will learn safe and effective movement techniques that can be incorporated into their daily routines for long-term health benefits.
  Register for Exercise and Movement for Survivors.
  
• Wednesday, December 17 | Finding Purpose and Giving Back
  This session will focus on finding purpose and meaning after cancer, with an emphasis on advocacy and supporting others along the journey. Participants will engage in a vision board activity for 2026 wellness goals, helping them reflect on the past year and set intentions for the future with a sense of gratitude and charity, especially during the holiday season.
  Register for Finding Purpose and Giving Back.