List of Programs
No matter where you are on your cancer journey, The Cancer Support Center has a program that can help you enhance your life, boost your mood, form new relationships with those who are on their cancer journey, and improve your overall quality of life. Read on to learn about each of our current programs offerings, including dates, times, locations, and links to register for Zoom programs. Participants will see benefits from any singular program, but it is encouraged to combine programs from multiple areas to get the most from your time at The Center. To attend programs in person at our Homewood or Mokena locations, please call 708-798-9171 or email us. To attend programs virtually, click the underlined program name in blue to be redirected to Zoom registration.
Education & Networking
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Recurring Groups
Bereavement Group (Virtual)
The first and third Thursday of the month from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
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Blood Cancer Networking Group (Virtual)
The third Tuesday of the month from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
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Brain Tumor Networking Group (Mokena)
The second Thursday of the month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Call 708-478-3529 to register.
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Breast Cancer Networking Group (Virtual)
The first Wednesday of the month from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
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Colorectal Cancers Group (Virtual) *NEW TIME
The second Wednesday of the month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
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Gynecological Cancer Networking Group (Virtual)
The third Wednesday of each month from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
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Head and Neck Cancers Networking Group
Second Wednesday of the month from 4 to 5 p.m.
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LGBTQ+ Networking Group (Virtual)
The first Tuesday of each month from 5 to 6 p.m.
Join us for our new LGBTQ+ networking group! The LGBTQ+ networking group is intended to build intersectional support for LGBTQ+ individuals at any stage of the cancer journey, whether currently in treatment or post-treatment. Networking groups provide opportunities to build community, identify coping strategies, and find new resources.
*For IL residents only. Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns.
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Cancer Support & Networking Group
Homewood | The last Tuesday of every month |12 to 1 p.m.
*NEW TIME Mokena | The 2nd Monday of every month | 12-1 p.m.
*Please call 708-798-9171 to register
Being diagnosed with cancer can be a very isolating experience. Groups are a place where patients can receive support from others who truly get it and learn more about resources and coping skills by networking with others. Unfortunately, there isn’t a group for every type of cancer, so we want to provide a space for all cancer types. While virtual groups are convenient for many, we are happy to offer an in-person option starting this summer!
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Lung Cancer Networking Group (Virtual) *NEW TIME
The first Wednesday of each month from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
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Men’s Discussion Group (Virtual)
Every Thursday from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
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Metastatic Breast Cancer Networking (Virtual)
The First Wednesday of each month from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
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The last Thursday of each month from 4-5 p.m.
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Prostate Cancer Networking Group *NEW TIME
The second Thursday of every month from 5 to 6 p.m.
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The third Wednesday of every month from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
This peer led group is offered both in person and virtually for African American/Black Women with Breast Cancer.
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Young Adult Networking Group (Virtual)
The second Tuesday of each month from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
For those between 18-40 years of age.
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Support & networking groups are open to Illinois residents only.
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Special Programs​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
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Fridays, March 7th, 14th, 21st | 11 a.m. | Virtual
Join us for a free online workshop to learn about transportation resources available for Cancer Support Center participants. We'll cover public transit, ride services, and other transportation resources in three area counties. Get your questions answered and find the best options for your needs!
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The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Colorectal Cancer
Friday, March 14th | 2-3 p.m. | Virtual
Join ReVital Cancer Rehab Physical Therapist Karyn Holtz PT MHS CLT as she discusses Colorectal Cancer. Karyn will walk attendees through: Colorectal Cancer overview and Medical Diagnosis, Benefits of Cancer Rehab, & Exercise is Medicine.
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How to Cope with Grief and Loss
Monday, March 17th | 4-5 p.m. | Virtual
Coping with the loss of a loved one can be extremely hard for individuals and even more challenging for families. It’s hard to know what’s normal and how long grief is supposed to last. Furthermore, comparing our grief to others can often make the situation worse. This program will help you understand common reactions to grief, how to get the support you need, and how to support your loved ones who are also grieving. Presented by Jason Kieffer, LCPC.
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Friday, April 4th | 11-12 p.m. | Virtual
Neuropathy is one of the most common side effects from certain cancer treatments.
Join us to learn about neuropathy and ways physical therapy and other interventions may help. Presented by Lauren Mansell, DPT, CLT, PRPC.
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Swallowing Across the Continuum in Head and Neck Cancer
Monday, April 28th | 4-5 P.M. | virtual
Head and neck surgery and radiation can cause short- and long-term swallowing issues, including dysphagia and trismus. SLPs assess and treat speech/swallowing, while gastroenterologists manage severe cases. Therapy, exercises, and interventions improve function. Presented by Sarah Kramer, MS CCC-SLP.​
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Friday, May 9th | 11-12 p.m. | Virtual
Join Doctor of Physical Therapy and certified Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist, Lauren Mansell to learn about Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in Cancer survivorship, what it is, and what you can do to help. Bring your questions! Presented by Lauren Mansell, DPT, CLT, PRPC.
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Skincare 101
Thursday, May 22nd | 1 p.m. | Mokena
Join us for an essential care guide for protecting your skin. Licensed esthetician Jacqueline Nelson-Elliot will walk you through myths about your skin during and after cancer treatment. She will also educate the group about individual differences in skincare, review day and night skincare routines, and provide a Q & A session. Please call to register.
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Counseling & Stress Management
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Recurring Programs
Art Journaling (Virtual)
Email Kelly to receive a prompt each Thursday in your inbox.
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Art Open Studio - Homewood
Every Wednesday from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.
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Art - Homewood
Every Monday from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
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Art - Mokena
Every Tuesday from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
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Knit & Crochet Group - Mokena
Every Wednesday from 2-3:30 p.m.
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Knit & Crochet Group - Homewood
Every Monday from 12-1 p.m.
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Journeying Inward: Deep Relaxation for Well-Being & Stress Relief (Virtual)
The third Wednesday of each month from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
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Individual, Family, or Couples Counseling* (In-Person or Virtual)
Contact Jason Kieffer for more information.
*Counseling may only be for residents of Illinois. Please register if you have any questions.
Monday Meditation with Cecily (Virtual)
Every Monday from 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
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Special Programs​​​​​​​​​​​
Weaving Workshop
Wednesday, February 26th | 4-5:30 p.m. | Mokena
Join us to learn a new skill and have some fun! This workshop will teach you how to weave and how to create your own weaving loom. We will utilize our new skills to create a mug rug and/or a bookmark. Presented by art therapist Claire Quigley.​
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Monthly Tween Art Meetup 
Mondays: March 10th, April 7th, May 12th | 4:30-5:30 p.m. | Homewood 
This monthly art group is for 10-14 year olds affected by cancer. Each month we will explore new art techniques and themes guided by an Art Therapist. This group provides a space for creative exploration, peer engagement, and emotional processing.
Please call either location or email kfriel@cancersupportcenter.org to register.​
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Kids Spring Break Horse Outing
Wednesday, April 2nd | 10 A.M.-12 P.M. | Nova Quarter Horses
Children aged 5-12 who are impacted by cancer are invited to join us at Nova Quarter Horses in Mokena for some fun at the barn! Kids will learn about caring for horses, tour the barn, and be led around on horseback in the indoor arena. Registration is required and space is limited. Please call either location or email kfriel@cancersupportcenter.org to register.
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Watercolor Flowers Workshop
Wednesday April 23rd | 4-5:30 P.M. | Mokena
Join us in learning techniques to make flowers, petals and leaves using watercolor paint. All materials provided.
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Make your own Body Scrub
Thursday, April 24th | 1-2 P.M. | Homewood
Join us for a hands-on workshop where you will learn how to create your own custom body scrub. Presented by licensed esthetician Jacqueline Nelson-Elliott. Registration required and space is limited. Call 708-798-9171 or email kfriel@cancersupportcenter.org to register.
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Mosaic Art Workshop
Wednesday, May 14th | 4 - 5:30 p.m. | Homewood
In this program you will create your own mosaic piece of art. Come join us, get creative, and have fun.
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Mosaic Art Workshop
Wednesday, May 14th | 4 - 5:30 p.m. | Homewood
In this program you will create your own mosaic piece of art. Come join us, get creative, and have fun.​​​​
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Art Themes
February: For the Love of Art – we will explore the materials and concepts that our participant’s love most about art making and the creative process.
March: Collage with creative materials
April: Painting
May: Art for Mindfulness
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Fitness & Physical Wellness
Recurring Programs
Chair Yoga with Cecily (Virtual)
Every Monday from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Join us to participate in this ancient tradition done in the comfort and safety of a chair.
Participants have said, "Yoga has helped me deepen awareness of body, mind, and spirit,” and that this program has helped them find balance in peace in life. Please call 708-798-9171 or 708-478-3529 to register in person or click the program title above to register on Zoom.
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Gentle Floor Yoga Nidra with Karen (Hybrid - Mokena OR Virtual)
Every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
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Gentle Yoga with Marcela - (Homewood)
Every Wednesday from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
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Moves That Matter Personal Training NEW FORMAT
Presenter-Roy Alfonso - (Homewood)
Every Tuesday from 2 to 2:45 p.m.
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Soundbath (Homewood)
First & Third Thursday of each month from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
This program involves a sound meditation in which you bathe your body in the healing vibrations of various ancient instruments, and raise your consciousness to create a space of peace and well-being, harmony and balance. Please bring a pillow, and blanket and wear loose clothing. Registration is required. For more information please call 708-798-9171.
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Tibetan Bowls (Mokena)
Every other Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.
This sound meditation creates a space of peace, well-being, harmony, and balance, and brings profound therapeutic benefits. Bring a pillow or blanket and wear loose clothing.
Call 708-478-3529 to register.
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Zumba Toning with Lori (Mokena)
Every Monday from 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.
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Zumba Gold with Denise (Homewood)
Every Monday and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Call 708-798-9171 to register.
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Wednesdays | 9-10:30 a.m. | Mokena or online
This fun group fitness class will focus on gentle conditioning, flexibility and balance by moving to upbeat music. Workouts will focus on the whole body and all levels of fitness are welcome. The first 45 minutes will consist of light exercise followed by 15 minutes of rest/hydration and ending with 30 minutes of stretching and balance training. Please call 708.478.3529 to reserve your spot.​
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Special Programs
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Corrective Exercise to Rebuild, Strengthen and Restore
Monday, February 10th | 12:30-1:15 p.m. | Homewood
In a small group setting, Roy will provide individualized attention on which corrective movements can best help reduce pain, increase flexibility and improve balance. This program will help you learn what exercises can help you move better to control or manage discomfort. No registration necessary. Presentenced by Roy Alfonso, Certified Fitness & Functional (CFS) & Movement Specialist.
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Tai Chi and Qigong - *Starting in April
1st and 2nd Thursdays of each month from 10-11 a.m. | Homewood
Tai Chi and Qigong are mind-body practices involving slow movements, deep breathing, and meditation. They offer numerous health benefits, including improved balance, stress reduction, pain relief, and immune system boost. These practices are safe for most people and can be a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle. Presented by Bill Gray, Tai Chi & Qigong Instructor.
Nutrition Education
Special Programs​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Healthy Lifestyle; Inspiring Wellness *6-week program plus 2 optional bonus weeks
Mokena | Wednesday’s February 5, 12, 19, 26, March 5 | 12-1:30 p.m.
Homewood | Thursdays, March 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th, April 3rd, 10th | 2:30 - 4 p.m.
Mokena | Wednesdays, April 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th and May 7th | 12-1:30 p.m.
Healthy Lifestyle is a 6-week program designed to help support, empower and challenge you towards achieving your goals. Each week you will meet with a nutrition educator and a fitness instructor. By committing yourself weekly to this program, you will be encouraged through instruction and group support to create healthy habits and strive towards optimal health. You will learn advanced nutrition information and fitness methods that are designed to teach you safe and effective ways to improve your health and vitality. This is the perfect time to focus on a healthier you!  Facilitated by Chris Rosandich, MS, Nutrition Educator, Amanda McLaughlin, Personal Trainer, and Roy Alfonso, (CFS) Certified Fitness & Functional Movement Specialist.​​​​​
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Reduce Inflammation & Build Your Immune System: Fight Back Against Cold and Flu
Tuesday, February 25th | 10:30-11:45 a.m. | Homewood
What are the signs and causes of chronic inflammation? Why is chronic inflammation so dangerous? Strategies to reduce inflammation, increase energy, and relieve brain fog. Healthy food options served.
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Label Reading: Avoiding Unhealthy Ingredients
Tuesday, March 11th | 10:30-11:45 a.m. | Homewood
Thursday, March 13th | 10:30-11:45 a.m. | Mokena
Consumers are more health-conscious than ever but still we see food manufacturers misleading us with tricks and including ingredients that are unhealthy. Join us as we learn how to read food labels, identify harmful ingredients to avoid and useful tips on how to calculate fat, sodium and sugar intake. Presented by Chris Rosandich, MS.
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Unlocking Inner Calm: How to Unwind & Secure Peace of Mind
Wednesday, March 12th | 12:30-1:30 p.m. | Mokena
In today’s fast-paced world, attaining inner calm and securing your peace of mind seems like an unreachable goal. However, accessing that deep reservoir of peacefulness and serenity is possible. In this workshop you will learn practical strategies to embrace mindfulness and stress reduction techniques that can create a space within you to feel calm and joy. Presented by Kat Klipic, Integrative Health Coach.
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Tame Anxiety & Worry For Sound Sleep
Tuesday, March 18th | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Homewood
Are you battling sleep concerns? Research has shown anxiety & worry can disrupt sleep, creating a loop of insomnia, stress, and fatigue. Learn practical strategies which can help you get a better night's sleep while feeling calmer and less anxious. Get some ZZZ's by focusing on rest practices, nutrition, and daily habits! Presented by Morgan Fedro, National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach.
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Healthy and Homemade with Gwen: Eat Something Green to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day
Thursday, March 20th | 10:30-12 p.m. | Mokena
Eat something GREEN! We will be making a creamy tortellini soup loaded with spinach that you will absolutely love. To go with the soup, you’ll have your choice of a couple versions of “green” avocado toast on homemade sourdough bread. Presented by Gwen Giampaolo.
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Cooking with Chef Marcia: Handheld Foods
Tuesday, March 25th | 10:30-12 p.m. | Homewood
Handheld foods are portable and can be eaten without utensils. Chef Marcia will demonstrate how simple and delicious finger sandwiches can be, plus other amazing sides. This is the perfect class for anyone who loves to eat wonderful food but doesn’t like to spend much time in the kitchen. Presented by Chef Marcia Kuchta.
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Home Remedies to Reduce Inflammation
Wednesday, April 2nd | 10:45-12 p.m. | Mokena
Would you like to learn how to make home remedies to help keep your immune system strong and reduce inflammation? Chef Lesley will show us how to lower inflammation naturally by making homemade brews made from superfood ingredients. Presented by Chef Lesley Shworles.
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Tuesday, April 8th | 10-11 a.m. | Homewood
This uplifting program will help you let go of self-doubt and self-criticism that may be causing you undue burden and pain. You will receive the tools you need to LET GO of the things that have been weighing you down mentally, physically and emotionally. Plus, this will give you some much needed peace, clarity, hope and support to move forward on your journey. Learn three powerful tools that will help you to experience MORE JOY in your life. Presented by Charmaine Moore, Face of Hope and Beauty Self-Love Life Coach.
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Healthy and Homemade with Gwen: Toss the Take-Out Menu
Thursday, April 10th | 10:30-12:00 p.m. | Mokena
Toss the take-out menu! We will be making a Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry using rotisserie chicken and homemade coconut rice. This is an easy quick recipe that doesn't have MSG and includes a serving of veggies. Presented by Gwen Giampaolo.
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Cooking with Chef Marcia: Get ‘egg-cited’ for egg dishes
Tuesday, April 15th | 10:30-12 p.m. | Homewood
Eggs are one of the few foods that can be classified as a ‘superfood’. They are a good source of protein and high in vitamin B12, selenium, vitamin D and zinc. Chef Marcia will amaze us with new and fascinating ways to prepare them. Presented by Chef Marcia Kuchta.
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Simple Cooking with Healthy Ingredients
Thursday, April 17th | 10:30-12 p.m. | Mokena
Tuesday, May 6th | 11:30-1 p.m. | Homewood
Join us as we sample foods that are simple to make and part of a healthy, cancer-fighting diet. You’ll learn practical information about healthy living and lifestyle changes including simple ways to plan meals and snacks, new recipes that include the best ingredients and how to make healthy substitutes for your favorite foods. Presented by Chris Rosandich, MS.
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Cooking with Chef Marcia; Sweet & Savory Crepes
Tuesday, May 13th | 10:30-12 p.m. | Homewood
Crepes are like a blank canvas, ready to be transformed into a sweet or savory masterpiece. Whether you’re craving a decadent dessert, a light breakfast, or a satisfying dinner, Chef Marcia will impress us all! Presented by Chef Marcia Kuchta.
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Unlock the Healing Power of Seeds & Herbs: Natural Home Remedies
Thursday, May 8th | 2-3:30 p.m. | Mokena
Nourish your body and reduce inflammation by unlocking the healing power of seeds & herbs naturally. Marcela will show you how to make your own natural remedies to help support your immune system and improve overall health. Everyone will make their own special tea to take home. Presented by Marcela Puga, Health Coach & Yoga Therapist.
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Healthy and Homemade with Gwen: Meatless Meals in May
Thursday, May 22nd | 10:30-12:00 p.m. | Mokena
We will be celebrating spring with a Roasted Veggie Tzatziki bowl that will be great for meal prep and lunches for the entire week. Of course, all this healthy eating deserves a guilt-free treat - so let’s make Pistachio Baklava Balls to snack on! Presented by Gwen Giampaolo.
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Summer Smoothie Clinic: Protein
Thursday, May 15th | 11-12:30 p.m. | Mokena
Tuesday, May 20th | 11-12:30 p.m. | Homewood
Learn to make blend-at-home smoothies that have great taste, are jam-packed with pre and probiotics, protein, healthy fats and fiber. Blending your fruits and veggies is the best and quickest way to reduce inflammation while hydrating your body, drenching your cells in life-giving nutrients and even repairing your DNA. Samples are available. Presented by Chris Rosandich, MS.
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Body Image
CSC's Wig Boutique
The Cancer Support Center wig boutique provides high-quality wigs in a wide range of styles, colors, and textures to those undergoing chemo and experiencing hair loss. Contact us via email or by phone at 708-798-9171 or 708-478-3529 to schedule a fitting.