Support Group
About the Group
About the Group
- Background
- Purpose
- Mission and Vision
- About the Support Group
- Ethics
- Benefits
- Activities
- Group Information
Background
- Founded in June, 2000 by Mario Fastag, cancer survivor, and his wife
- It was created in the CENTRO MÉDICO ABC thanks to the enormous support of:
- Lady Volunteers of the Centro Médico ABC
- ABC Executives
- Created by the Board in January, 2001
- Integrated into the CENTRO MÉDICO ABC in February, 2003
Purpose
- For patients of all cancer types and their family members
- Focused mainly on the emotional side and on becoming more familiar with the illness
- For patients from any institution or doctor, without regard to race, age, gender, religion or social condition
- To provide an atmosphere of communication and exchange of experiences
- To stimulate the development of a positive outlook on life
- To explore strategies and techniques that help to face the challenges
Mission
To provide an environment of support and understanding in which all of the cancer patients and their families may face the challenges and share the experiences, feelings and lessons that stimulate a spirit full of life and hope.
Vision
That the "Winners’ Circle” would be recognized as a support group within the Centro Médico ABC, that works with volunteer members known for their warmth and kindness and who are trained in organization and dynamism, and that fulfills the mission, in an outstanding manner, of helping patients and fostering new volunteers.
Support Group Operating Bases
Led by a Council that includes Centro Médico ABC executive, Oncology Doctors and Lady Volunteers
The Centro Médico ABC provides staff support and a Coordinator.
"American Cancer Society" format
Organized and directed exclusively by cancer patients and family members who work as volunteers
An office on the 4th floor of the Observatory Hospital serves as a hospitality room and library.
All of the activities are free for the participants.
Ethics
The Group maintains very strict guidelines in terms of ethics and mutual respect, with a main focus on emotional aspects and quality of life.
Confidentiality
- No mention or recommendation of doctors or institutions
- No offering diagnoses
- No recommending treatments
- Respect for the religious beliefs of others
