A Place for Me Helps Children Cope With a Family Member's Cancer
(take a look at "A Place for Me" photo collage)

Schedule of  A Place for Me programs

With funds provided by the Women's Board of Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, several Jefferson departments have joined forces to offer A Place for Me - a program for children whose parent or grandparent has cancer. "The program evolved as an effort to help children since they are often overlooked when it comes to cancer support services," explains Jan Taksa, Administrative Social Work Supervisor, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. 

The response to the program has been so positive the Women's Board has provided resources to offer it quarterly. Children attend the program along with their parent or grandparent. The program is free and includes lunch and parking.

During the four-hour program, children and their family members meet separately. The children participate in activities including "Jefferson Squares" and watching animated demonstrations of how cancer affects the body. All of the activities focus on helping children overcome myths about cancer and learn coping skills. At the same time, parents and grandparents meet with facilitators and discuss the challenges of living with cancer.

Schedule of  A Place for Me programs