From The Gathering Place
Navigating a cancer diagnosis can be daunting, but when children are involved, it takes on a whole new meaning. That’s where The Gathering Place, a non-profit with locations in Beachwood, Westlake and virtually, can offer helpful and free resources for the whole family.
“Being told a parent or a grandparent has cancer can be a terrible shock, as can the news of a child in the family being sick,” says Michele Seyranian, CEO of The Gathering Place. “At The Gathering Place, our programs and services are here to help families navigate this time, start those conversations and equip them with the tailored support they need.”
TGP Kids is specifically developed to support children and teens living with cancer, who have cancer in the family and who experienced the death of an adult loved one from cancer. The free programs and services help children, teens and families cope with the emotional, social, spiritual, and physical impact of cancer.
Many older adults rely on the support of their grown children for assistance when they are on the cancer journey. It may become stressful for their adult children as they juggle the responsibilities of their own lives and now those of their parents. The Gathering Place welcomes family members, loved ones and friends to join as participants in support groups for caregivers, as well as the wide array of nutrition, and movement offerings such as yoga (virtual and in-person), art therapies, and more.
“The Gathering Place opened its doors in Beachwood in 2000, in a grassroots effort to provide a space where people felt safe, connected and found peace during a time of chaos. A place where the entire family was supported. Whether you or a family member is going through cancer, we are here to support you. Our mission is the foundation of what we do every day. To support, educate and empower those currently coping with the impact of cancer delivering our services free of charge,” says Seyranian.
On Sunday, June 2, thousands of residents throughout the Cleveland area will head to Beachwood Place for the 24th annual Race for the Place, a 5K/1 Mile walk. Race for the Place provides an opportunity to raise money to support the free programs and services offered at The Gathering Place to help anyone on the cancer journey.
To register or donate visit racefortheplace.org.
