SPOHNC

Last night, Debbie and I met with a wonderful group at SPOHNC, Support for People with Oral, Head and Neck Cancer at Stony Brook University Medical Center - Cancer Center. Founded 19 years ago by oral cancer survivor Nancy Leupold, Support for People with Oral and Head and Neck Cancer has been both a resource and inspiration for survivors and patients throughout the country. SPOHNC is a patient-directed self-help organization dedicated to raising awareness and meeting the needs of oral, head and neck cancer patients. What started as a single support group at Long Island Jewish Medical Center, has now grown to 90 SPOHNC chapters throughout the United States

“People diagnosed with oral, head and neck cancer are often overwhelmed because it is not a well-known disease,” said Mary Ann Caputo, current outreach administrator and soon to be executive director of SPOHNC. “SPOHNC and its outreach programs offer support and encouragement through their chapters and through its National Survivor Volunteer Network.

Although head, neck and oral cancer is new to us at Strength for Life, our exercise regime can benefit everyone. Of course, we can add some specific exercises to strengthen the neck and shoulder area, but all-around strength and endurance is paramount in cancer recovery and wellness. We look forward to having this group join us at the Wellness Weekend in November. Thank you, Dennis, for inviting us to speak at your intimate support meeting.

As always, medical clearance is necessary to participate.