Joan Schramm has a strong voice when she sings alongside her husband, Bob, in the St. Lukes Church Choir. Her voice is equally strong when she speaks out as an advocate for cancer patients and survivors. Joan has faced the adversity of cancer—twice. She has created The Cancer Support Group, as a strong voice and a free resource for all those affected by the disease.

Tell us how you got involved with The Cancer Support Group:

The Cancer Support Group or CSG comes out of my desire to be a contributing member of our community and to find a positive purpose in being both a survivor and once again a cancer patient.  After vacationing here for nine years my husband and I joined St Luke’s Church as part-timers.  In 2019 we moved here full-time only to get the scary news that I had cancer again.  The community life in Hilton Head was our dream retirement now challenged with something that I had no control over.

I have always been an actively involved person.  The cancer diagnosis seemed to close a lot of doors.  Add in the current pandemic and isolation became very real.  Communication is often hard for patients, caregivers, family members, and friends and no one in the medical community had any answers.  With the support of St Luke’s Church, we formed a free Cancer Support Group.  The program brings together patients, survivors, and anyone who is affected by someone with any form of cancer.

How did having cancer affect your life? 

One of my first experiences as a cancer patient was the sudden reduction in social contact by people I knew.  Eventually, I had people tell me they were afraid to call because they didn’t know what to say or visit because I might get sick.  Social interaction is a very important part of a healthy human society and more so with a national pandemic.  Our goal is to provide this for those working through cancer and all those who are a part of their lives.

What does the Cancer Support Group do?

It is designed to share educational and experiential information the program develops support for the patients, family members, coworkers, and friends.  Program topics include but are not limited to nutrition, alternative treatments, exercise, and support for caregivers and family members.  Patients also need to understand the challenges facing caregivers and family members so open communication is vitally important.  The open round table format includes discussion topics brought forth by any member of the group.

What does The Cancer Support Group Offer those dealing with cancer?

Life continues after cancer treatments but we are often challenged by the physical and mental changes facing us.  The support group provides interaction and socialization for all members.  We are fortunate to have local professionals speaking and sharing knowledge to help us keep productive and contributing lives.  Exercise programs are also available.  Our goal is to provide information, and social interaction for all those working through cancer.  For more information about the group please call St. Luke’s Church at 843-785-4099.