Social Wellness

Every year, ELLICSR holds an event on National Cancer Survivors Day with the goal of connecting cancer survivors and providing a day of activities that is both enjoyable and beneficial for its participants. The theme this year was social wellness. The event featured an expert panel and various workshops that addressed social wellbeing for cancer survivors that included nutrition and healthy eating, drumming, exercise and art.

Connecting Cancer Survivors

The day started with a keynote address from Dr. Catherine Sabiston, Canada Research Chair in Physical Activity and Mental Health and Associate Professor in Exercise and Health Psychology at the University of Toronto. Dr. Sabiston spoke about the link between exercise and social wellness and social wellbeing. This was followed by a presentation and Q&A period with a panel of oncology experts including Janet Papadakos and Dr. Jackie Bender from ELLICSR, Dr. Claire Edmonds from Wellspring Cancer Support Network and Claudia Hernandez, Patient Representative at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. The panel outlined the meaning and importance of social wellness when undergoing treatment. The panel of experts provided both their experiences and information on how and where to connect with other cancer survivors and programs within the community.

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. "I enjoyed it very much, the cooking class, the speakers, the exercise and the massage. Thanks to everyone who participated and organized for this wonderful day" said an event participant and cancer survivor.

'Seeing the patient as a whole person'

"The diagnosis and treatments for cancer affects both physical and social health, and effective treatments for cancer should not be just about treating the physical disease," explains Dr. Jennifer Jones, Director, Cancer Rehabilitation and Cancer Survivorship Program.

Other activities available at this year's event included the painting of a mural during registration, and seated massages provided by two Registered Massage Therapists.

ELLICSR at UHN brings together scientists, educators, health care providers and community cancer organizations to improve the quality of life for all those impacted by cancer.

Hope to see you next year!

Watch the Keynote Address