Support Groups
IMPACT Melanoma offers support groups for patients dealing with the realities of melanoma. By coming together with others, patients can reduce the feelings of isolation that often accompany a diagnosis of melanoma by providing opportunities to talk with others with the same illness.

We believe that by participating in support groups, educational programs, and other programs, patients can gain self-confidence and develop coping skills to help them deal with their illness regardless of the stage.

IMPACT Melanoma provides the following support options:

SUPPORT GROUPS FOR PATIENTS AND CAREGIVERS
Melanoma support groups are offered in multiple locations for patients with melanoma. The groups are led by trained professionals skilled in working with cancer patients. We also assist with support for the families and friends of melanoma patients. There is no charge for these support groups.

We recognize that some people who are dealing with the realities of melanoma may either be not interested in, or unable to attend, a support group at one of our locations. To help provide these people with an outlet for discussion, we host a telephonic support group. The group meets at a designated time and only requires a toll-free phone call.

Click here for a list of in person and telephonic support groups.

BILLY’S BUDDIES
Billy’s Buddies is our one-on-one patient support and advocacy program. Founded in 2006 Billy’s Buddies focuses on providing a wide range of support services so that those struggling with this illness will have the energy, advice, and direction they need to fight this disease.

Click here for more information on Billy’s Buddies.

MELANOMA SYMPOSIUMS
IMPACT Melanoma offers melanoma symposiums twice a year. The goal for each symposium is to bring together some of the top minds in the medical and support communities to provide updated information and insights, and to answer as many questions as possible.

Click here for more information on Melanoma Symposiums for Patients and Caregivers.

 
Support Groups
Please pre-register prior to attending your first support group by contacting the group facilitator listed below.

For the safety of our patients and support group leaders, all groups are being held virtually until further notice due to the spread of COVID-19. Thank you for understanding.

PATIENTS:
MASSACHUSETTS
Worcester
378 Plantation Street
Worcester, MA
Facilitator: Kathy Manfield, LICSW
800-557-6352
Fourth Tuesday of the month, 7:00pm

Beverly Hospital – A Member of Lahey Health
85 Herrick Street – Garden Conference Room
Beverly MA
Facilitator: Kelli Braga, LICSW
978-922-3000 ext. 2710
Second Thursday of the month, 6:00pm

Norwell Visiting Nurse Association
120 Longwater Drive
Norwell, MA
Facilitator: Frank McCaffrey, LICSW
781-610-1490
Second Thursday of the month, 6:00pm

CONNECTICUT
New Haven
Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale-New Haven – CH 290
20 York Street
New Haven, CT 06510
Facilitator: Laura Donnelly
To register, call Laura at 203-200-2120
Third Tuesday of the month, 5:30pm

VIRTUAL SUPPORT GROUP
Open to all patients regardless of where they seek treatment
Facilitator: Sarah Gilman-Lard, MSW
603-653-3514
First Tuesday of the month, 5:45pm
Please call for more information and to register.

CAREGIVERS:
VIRTUAL SUPPORT GROUP
Facilitator: Kelli Braga, LICSW
978-922-3000 ext. 2710,
First Thursday of the month, 5:30pm