About Cancer Support Center

For more than 30 years, the Cancer Support Center has been a trusted source of support for individuals and families navigating cancer. Through counseling, support groups, wellness, nutrition, fitness, and educational programs, CSC serves thousands annually with no geographic or visit limits. Thanks to the generosity of donors and volunteers, all services are offered at no cost. Ensuring no one faces cancer alone.

Our Mission

The Cancer Support Center provides strength, guidance, and compassionate support to anyone impacted by cancer — whoever and wherever they are. Our evidence based programs are delivered by professional therapists, counselors, nutritionists, and healthcare experts through in-person and virtual services designed to support the whole person.

Our Vision

To be THE source of hope, help, and strength that changes the lives of every person impacted by cancer.

Our History

In 1992, Joan Hopkins and Judy Svancarek faced the challenges of cancer and realized the need for emotional support for themselves, their family, and friends. They visited other support centers and were inspired by the educational lectures and support groups. Joan and Judy listened to doctors and nurses and researched reports that attested to the positive effects that support centers had on the immune system.

In an effort to gather community support and make this dream a reality, Joan and Judy banded together with Judith Hanzelin, an oncology nurse; Carol VanTuyle, who worked in hospice; and Jennifer Fallick and Patricia McDonald, who had lost husbands to cancer. Together, they became the driving force behind what is now known as The Cancer Support Center.

Today, the Cancer Support Center supports thousands of individuals and families each year through comprehensive counseling, wellness, nutrition, fitness, and support programs. With no geographic or visit limits, CSC is here to walk alongside anyone impacted by cancer — from diagnosis through treatment, survivorship, and beyond.

Our Program Model

The Cancer Support Center operates on a six-point model program system, ensuring that every individual receives holistic care that addresses emotional, physical, and practical needs:

• Counseling & Stress Management: Licensed professionals provide individual, family, and group counseling, as well as stress reduction techniques to help manage anxiety and emotional challenges.
• Fitness & Physical Wellness: Safe, tailored exercise programs—including oncology fitness—to maintain strength, mobility, and overall well-being during and after treatment.
• Nutrition: Evidence-based oncology nutrition programs, cooking demonstrations, and personalized consultations to support healing and recovery.
• Education & Networking: Workshops, lectures, and support groups that connect participants with others who understand their journey and provide valuable information and resources.
• Body Image: Programs that address the physical and emotional aspects of body changes during and after cancer treatment, helping restore confidence and self-esteem.
• Child & Family: Programs provide age-appropriate support to help children, teens, and parents navigate the emotional challenges of cancer together. Through counseling, support groups, educational programs, and family-centered activities, we create a safe space where families can express feelings, build coping skills, and stay connected during a difficult time.

Virtual and In-Person Options

We understand that cancer care needs flexibility. That’s why we offer both in-person programs at our Homewood and Mokena locations and virtual options that bring support directly to you—wherever you are.

Why We Are Different

No cost to participants—always. Professional, evidence-based programs. A welcoming, inclusive environment for all. Over 30 years of trusted service in the community. Flexible options: in-person and virtual.