Survivorship Program

Cancer is complex, the journey one faces is never a straight line to wellness and is unique for each person. Many cancer patients continue to face daily challenges with their physical, emotional, spiritual, and financial well-being long after “active” treatment ends which may create increased stress and anxiety. We recognize how important high-quality survivorship care is to patients and families. MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center hopes you know we are here for you to help support your journey from where you are today until post-treatment care and beyond. It is our goal to provide education, support, and resources to assist with any concerns that you may have, in your own unique way. Knowing that not everyone has to do something entirely on their own may be a comfort to many persons affected by cancer.

Through a multidisciplinary team approach with physicians, nurses, physical therapy, social workers, and dieticians we hope to provide increased opportunities to learn more about health promotion and patient-centered care. We hope to develop and reinforce a partnership that will help those affected by cancer to hope, succeed, and live the fullest life possible.

Survivorship Support Services/Resources

• Expressive Arts Workshop - A biweekly session supporting emotional healing and empowerment for those navigating cancer.
• Genetic Counseling - You have access to genetic counseling services provided by master-trained health care professionals. If you have a personal or family history of cancer, our genetic counselors can help assess your risk and guide you and your loved ones through your options. For more information, please call (949) 452-7201.
• Interactive Nutrition Modules - Interactive Nutrition Modules support you and your loved ones with practical, science-based guidance on how to nourish your body throughout your cancer journey.
• Nurse Navigators – Our compassionate nurse navigators provide personalized education and guidance throughout every stage of your cancer journey. They coordinate care by managing appointments and collaborating with your care team, answering your questions and connecting you with essential resources such as financial support, social services and clinical trials. For more information, please call (949) 452-7033.
• Nutrition Support -  Registered dietitians provide one-on-one support to manage the symptoms and side effects of cancer and its treatment while helping to maintain nutrition during and after care. We also offer interactive video modules with practical, science-based guidance to help you and your loved ones stay nourished, manage side effects and build strength throughout your cancer journey. For more information, please call ‭(949) 452-8880‬.
• Onco-Ballet - Onco-Ballet is a unique movement class created just for you as someone navigating or recovering from cancer. It focuses on grace, balance and strength, offering a joyful way to rebuild confidence and reconnect with your body. No experience needed.
• Palliative Care Clinic - Palliative care offers relief from the symptoms and stress of serious illness, with the goal of improving quality of life for both you and your loved ones. For more information, please call ‭(949) 452-7000‬.
• Rehabilitation - Physical therapy before and after cancer treatment may help patients regain and maintain strength and energy. Each patient receives specialized care from our professional physical therapy staff surrounded by a culture of healing and hope. For more information, please call (949) 452-7040.
• Peer Navigation Program - A volunteer-led support program offering compassionate guidance to breast cancer patients throughout their care journey. For more information, please call (657) 241-9825.
• Social Work – Oncologic social workers provide emotional support, counseling, and connections to community resources to reduce stress and improve the well-being of you and your loved ones. For more information, please call (949) 607-7090.
• Spiritual Care Support - Chaplains are available to offer emotional and spiritual support, helping you and your loved ones navigate how a diagnosis may impact their sense of meaning, hope and peace. For more information, please call (949) 452-3746.
• Support Groups – We offer a variety of support groups to help you and your loved ones develop healthy coping strategies, including: Coping Skills Series, Breast Cancer Support Group, Men’s Cancer Support Group, Women’s Cancer Support Group, Grupo de apoyo para mujeres contra el cáncer. For more information, please call (949) 607-7090.
• Yoga Workshops - This gentle yoga and wellness class is designed just for you and your caregiver, with a focus on breathing, meditation, and light movement. It’s hosted by Dr. Bhavana Pathak, Medical Director of Integrative Oncology at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center.
• MemorialCare Community Events - We host several community events throughout the year, including offerings in Laguna Woods and surrounding areas. For more information, please call (949) 452-7033.
• “Freedom from Smoking” Program - The American Lung Association’s “Freedom from Smoking” program offers eight group-style sessions that guide you step-by-step through the process of quitting smoking. Each session is led by a respiratory care practitioner and an oncology nurse practitioner, providing expert support every step of the way. For more information, please call (562) 480-7747.