Grants

Survivor University: Empowering cancer survivors through a telehealth wellness program

Dr. Leslie Musshafen, associate director of administration for the Cancer Center and Research Institute, is helping to facilitate Survivor University, a program aiming to improve cancer survivors’ well-being and increase self-efficacy to cope with the disease.

At first, the 10-day, evidence-based program will be available to UMMC patients undergoing cancer treatment. Speakers will include subject matter experts from UMMC, the American Cancer Society and other organizations who provide cancer care or resources. Presentations will include topics such as nutrition, physical activity after a cancer diagnosis, emotional well-being, improving mental health, coping with physical change, community and national resources for cancer survivors and resilience.

The integrative cancer wellness program is made possible by a grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration and Telehealth Center of Excellence. In the near future, the cancer institute plans to expand the program to make it available to cancer survivors across the state at no cost.