In my tapestry of offerings as a yoga, qigong, and meditation instructor, I witness the healing power of community daily; it is vital, life affirming, and essential for our well-being.

I first found out about Cancer CAREpoint from the fundraiser “Pose 4 A Purpose,” organized by Lorien Neargarder, my good friend and mentor. I attended in honor of my uncle who passed from lung cancer in 2013. I was moved by how many people donated their time to support this organization and raise funds. My uncle, who lived in rural Montana, did not have access to the resources that such a community provides.

When it comes to a disease like cancer, when facing diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, community remains crucial. The majority of my students who make their way into my Yoga for Cancer Survivorship classes at Breathe Together Yoga are served by Cancer CAREpoint. Keeping this in mind, I had the honor of interviewing Survivorship Program Coordinator Cherry Aslarona, M.A., LMFT, who has also been a counselor at the organization since February. I find working with the staff and supporting the members of Cancer CAREpoint immensely rewarding. Community-based organizations, such as this one, bring hope and support to so many. Below, Cherry shares her experiences working for such an important and affirming organization:

Lindsey Kolb: I am familiar with Cancer CAREpoint, but a lot of my readers are not. In a few words, could you explain what it is that Cancer CAREpoint does? 

Cherry Aslarona: Cancer CAREpoint is a community-based, non-profit organization that provides non-medical treatment for cancer patients, survivors, family members, and their caregivers. We focus on addressing the practical, psychological, and emotional impacts of cancer starting from cancer diagnosis to survivorship. We offer a variety of services, such as one-on-one counseling, assistance, resources, and education. 

LK: What would you say is unique about how Cancer CAREpoint supports people in their journey with cancer?

CA: All services at Cancer CAREpoint are available at no cost to everyone whose life is touched by cancer – no matter where they receive medical care, their cancer type, or insurance status. We are dedicated to ensuring that no one should have to face cancer alone.

LK: Which programs or events offered by Cancer CAREpoint should people be most aware of?

CA: We provide such a wide range of programs that it’s difficult to pinpoint which one most people should be aware of. The needs are unique to each individual, so it’s helpful to be aware of what we offer and see what best fits.  Individuals can select from our numerous programs, such as support groups, nutrition classes, yoga and exercise classes, guided imagery and meditation classes, energy work, and therapeutic massage. We also have a weekly wig bank service, which provides a wig and head coverings to patients who are experiencing hair loss from treatment – also at no cost. 

Lastly, our Family CARE and Survivorship Programs offer workshops on a quarterly basis. Cancer CAREpoint understands that a cancer diagnosis impacts the whole family, and for a parent diagnosed with cancer, there is additional stress regarding how to help their child cope. The Family CARE Program Workshop is designed to help parents and their children communicate and provides tools and emotional support. The Survivorship Program provides a six-week survivorship workshop for people who have completed active treatment and have not experienced a recurrence or stage IV diagnosis. Participants address the emotional impact of their cancer experience in a realistic, honest, and insightful environment. They also have the opportunity to share feelings, hopes, and fears, and are given practical tools and resources to move forward after cancer.

Because of our breadth of programming and our personalized support, we encourage those who are interested to call our Resource Center for any questions or schedule an appointment with our licensed counselors to see what would be helpful in addressing their needs. (Our phone number is (408) 402-6611, and we are open Monday through Saturday.)

LK: If I may turn our conversation to more personal matters: what drew you to Cancer CAREpoint?

CA: My personal connection to Cancer CAREpoint’s mission drew me to the organization. Having dealt with cancer (Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, stage IIa) during college, I knew that later down the road I wanted to work for an organization that supports the cancer community. Programs and services addressing the psychosocial and emotional impacts of cancer were very limited eleven years ago, during my time in treatment and post-treatment. Knowing that a place like Cancer CAREpoint now exists in the local community is very helpful, and I’m so grateful to be a part of this amazing team!

LK: Can you share an experience or interaction that you have had in your role which you find especially memorable without needing to mention any names?

CA: Witnessing the group dynamics during the six-week survivorship workshop is one of the most memorable moments I have experienced during my time here. Completing treatment can be a very confusing time, and, while most people assume it a celebration, it can also bring up some underlying emotions. Participants arrive in the workshop with similar concerns. Although they don’t know each other when the workshop begins, it is amazing to see how supportive and empathetic the participants are for one another, especially as the workshop continues. They’ve gained not only a safe space to express their thoughts and feelings, but also a supportive network of peers. One recent participant said, “Cancer CAREpoint has given me this idea that what I’ve gone through means something. I found a home at Cancer CAREpoint.”

LK: There are so many worthy causes to which I find myself needing to donate these days, and I am sure many feel the same. Why should I allocate funds to Cancer CAREpoint in addition?

CA: Cancer CAREpoint relies on donations to fund our programs and services. Donating to Cancer CAREpoint supports cancer patients, survivors, family members, and caregivers in our community to increase access to our programs and services, especially at no cost to them. Your donation stays local and helps people in our community.  We greatly appreciate the support from our generous donors and their dedication to address the needs of the cancer community in Silicon Valley.

LK: What volunteer opportunities exist if someone wants to contribute or raise awareness about the organization?

CA: Our Ambassador Program is a great way to support Cancer CAREpoint and increase awareness to the community about our organization. Trained volunteers will have the opportunity to table at outreach events, distribute informational material, or seek new outreach opportunities for Cancer CAREpoint. Volunteers can choose their commitment type and length. 

We also have volunteer opportunities to work in our wig bank. We provide complete training so that volunteers can assist patients with finding and fitting a wig and head coverings. There are also volunteer opportunities to assist with fundraising or to host a “friendraiser,” which is an opportunity for us to share what we do with the community.

• Those who are interested in Cancer CAREpoint’s Ambassador Program may contact Outreach Manager Cecilia Carranza at (408) 402-6287 or cecilia@cancercarepoint.org.
• Those interested in volunteering and curious about what that might look like may call the office and schedule a time to meet with Dawn Hogh, the interim executive director, to explore which volunteer opportunities best fit their desire to help.

You can also donate to the organization at Breathe Together Yoga throughout the month of October. Inquire at the front desk.