Support Groups & Classes
Virtual Support
UC San Diego Health classes and support groups are held via Zoom videoconferencing. Please register before attending using the links below to receive more information.
We offer free cancer support groups of many kinds. Click the links for more info and registration details.
Adult Cancer Support Group
If you are 18 years of age or older and have any current or past cancer diagnosis and would like extra support, please join this cancer support group hosted by a licensed clinical social worker from UC San Diego Health.
See All Adult Cancer Support Group Events
Better Together: Support Group for Children Affected by a Parent or Caregiver's Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Virtual support group for kids ages 5 to 12 who are affected by a parent or caregiver’s cancer diagnosis. Participants can meet and connect with other kids through meaningful discussions and art activities designed to promote coping and self-expression.
See All Better Together EventsBreast Cancer Support Groups
Early Stage Breast Cancer Support Group - This is a casual gathering for ladies, under the age of 50, who’ve been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. Join us to connect with empathetic peers, give and receive support, and ask or answer questions.
Stage 4 Breast Cancer Support Group - Online support group for people with a Stage IV breast cancer diagnosis, for support, coping skills and problem-solving. You may think you are not a “support group person.” Try it once and decide. “See” you there!
Cancer Caregiver Support Group
Meet other caregivers, receive emotional support, and learn information relevant to the needs of caregivers.
See All Cancer Caregiver EventsGrupo Esperanza (Support Group for Spanish Speakers)
Un grupo de apoyo emocional GRATUITO para pacientes con cáncer y sus familiares. El grupo es en español y facilitado por la Doctora Sara Fainstein, sobreviviente de cáncer de mama.
See All Grupo Esperanza EventsHead and Neck Cancer Support Group
This support group is designed to provide support and resources to patients and family members across the continuum of care. This includes individuals preparing for treatment, actively receiving care and in the post-treatment recovery period.
Contact: Margaret Sheridan, LCSW, at masheridan@health.ucsd.edu
See All Head and Neck EventsThe San Diego Laryngectomee Club
The San Diego Laryngectomee Club is a support group for patients considering a total laryngectomy (full removal of the voice box) or who have already undergone one. Caregivers, significant others and speech pathologists are all welcome. This informal, long-running group has served patients throughout Southern California and gives people a safe space to ask questions, communicate, and see others living a full life post-operatively.
Contact: Kristen Linnemeyer-Risser MA, CCC-SLP, BCS-S at klinnemeyer@health.ucsd.edu
Pancreas Cancer Support Group
This support group is for anyone navigating the complexities of pancreas cancer, from the time of diagnosis through all phases of care. This is a space for patients and loved ones to come together to gain emotional and practical support, and build upon coping strategies.
Contact: Holly Anguiano, LCSW, at hlhernandez@health.ucsd.edu
See All Pancreas Cancer Events
Young Adult Support Groups
Adolescent Young Adult Support Group - This is a University of California-wide virtual support group focusing specifically on the challenges and experiences of young adults. We will discuss challenges, share experiences, improve coping and foster connections within this group. The support group is for patients ages 18 to 39 with any cancer diagnosis.
Contact: Jaclyn Rice at jmrrice@ucdavis.edu
Young Adult Neuro-Oncology (YANO) Patient Support Group. Join us for a virtual support group with patients, ages 18 to 40, with primary brain and spinal cord tumors.