Medical Discussions
Living Well offers medical updates and special discussions online to support you during your cancer journey, from initial diagnosis through treatment and into early survivorship.
All discussions will be presented virtually via Microsoft Teams. Registration is available at livingwell.nm.org
You can watch recordings of previous medical discussions on our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@NorthwesternMedicineLivingWell
Finding Yourself Through Cancer Register here: https://qrco.de/bgTDB4 Virtual: Monday, April 20, 6:30–7:30 pm Nicolette M. Bernhardt, PsyD, ABPP-CH Clinical Health Psychologist, Northwestern Medicine During the cancer journey, your body and mind go through many changes that may alter the way you look and feel about yourself. Hair loss, weight gain or loss, surgeries and scars can create feelings of insecurity, a loss of confidence and a feeling of discomfort in your own skin. Join us to learn coping strategies, reduce those feelings and navigate the emotional impact of cancer.
Managing Scanxiety Virtual: Thursday, April 30, 6:30–7:15 pm Deanna Weiss, PsyD, Oncology Counselor, Northwestern Medicine Living Well Cancer Resources It can be difficult for patients and their caregivers to cope with the unsettledness, worry or anxiety around a medical scan, office visit or intervention. Join Dr. Weiss to learn about the common symptoms of “scanxiety” and the ways you can manage them.
Pelvic Pain and Cancer Survivorship: Understanding the Impact of Treatment Virtual: Thursday, May 14, 6:30–7:30pm Jana Richardson PT, DPT, WCS, PRPC, CIDN, Owner, Chicago Pelvic Health and Wellness Cancer treatments such as radiation can cause lasting changes to pelvic tissues that contribute to pain, bowel and bladder dysfunction, and difficulty with medical exams. This session focuses on increasing awareness of these risks and empowering survivors with practical behavior changes that support pelvic tissue health, reduce pain and promote long-term wellness after cancer.
Unlocking the Health and Wellness Benefits of Nature Virtual: Thursday, June 18, 6:30–7:30pm Alison Paul, Vice President of Community Conservation (The Conservation Foundation) and certified Forest Therapy Guide (Association of Nature and Forest Therapy) Jessica Mino, Kane and Kendall County Program Director (The Conservation Foundation) Research from around the world continues to confirm what many of us already feel—spending time in nature is good for our bodies and minds. Join us to explore how connecting with nature can boost physical and mental health, lower stress, strengthen our feeling of connectedness, and enhance overall well-being.
The Conservation Foundation will share how you can bring your health and wellness outdoors with practices like forest therapy, a way for people of all ages and abilities to connect with nature through their senses. We’ll also explore other activities and adaptations you can use to enjoy the outdoors in a way that works for you.
I’ve Finished Cancer Treatment, Now What? Survivorship 101 Virtual: Monday, June 22, 6:00–7:15pm Christopher George, MD, Medical Director, Medical Oncology, Northwestern Medicine Cancer treatment can require your full attention and energy for months or even years. After treatment, you may feel emotionally and physically drained; you may even feel disoriented as you try to adjust to life after treatment. Join Dr. George as he talks about what to expect as a cancer survivor and how to work with your care team as you recover from treatment.
Screening for Prostate Cancer – What Every Man Should Know Virtual: Thursday, July 30, 6:30–7:30pm Song Jiang, MD, PhD, is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Urology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Understanding who should be screened for prostate cancer, when screening is recommended, and why it matters empowers men to take an active role in their health. This talk will help patients navigate the benefits and potential risks of prostate cancer screening, encouraging informed, confident decisions through open conversation and evidence-based guidance.
The Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle Virtual: Thursday, August 20, 6:30–7:30pm Rachel Garrison, RN, BSN, and Katherine Whited, RD, CSO, LDN, CNSC, MPH This session will introduce practical, evidence-informed strategies for adopting an anti-inflammatory lifestyle. We will examine how dietary choices and daily habits influence inflammation and overall well-being. You will learn to identify common triggers of inflammation and explore healthier alternatives that can support long-term health and improved quality of life.
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