Parksville - Qualicum Beach - Port Alberni

Prostate cancer support groups are a free, confidential, safe space that provides a forum for those who have been affected by prostate cancer for days, months, years, or even decades. They offer an opportunity to gain a sense of empowerment over a diagnosis through the sharing of collective experience - from being diagnosed to navigating treatment options and managing the side effects that may accompany the chosen treatment(s). This is a place to speak comfortably about uncomfortable topics like erectile dysfunction, incontinence, and anxiety. Please note that the support group leaders, peer supporters and staff do not offer medical advice. They do offer resources to help each person's journey, collective experience and offer a judgement-free community to share thoughts, feelings and concerns. Many meetings include presentations by specialists and experts in prostate cancer followed by an opportunity for Q&A and a discussion period. Presentations are on a range of topics including: incontinence, sexuality, symptom management, living well with prostate cancer, and emerging research and treatment options.

Anyone who is affected by prostate cancer - at any stage of their disease - treated or untreated, can attend these support groups. Additionally, anyone who provides a caregiving or supportive role to the patient is welcome to attend these groups and meetings as well. Their support may be beneficial for the patient, in addition to helping the patient remember to ask questions and process important information if the patient is overwhelmed.

Most support groups meet on a monthly basis, meeting online, in-person or a hybrid model of the two. Many support groups also host get-togethers and various activities such as dragon boating and walking groups. Find a support group in your area today. There is no obligation to attend any meeting; you can contact local coordinators just for resources or other information if that is what you need.

The Foundation has an event calendar where they show all scheduled local support group meetings and other informative webinars that take place across the country.

The Prostate Cancer Foundation also has an extensive FAQ page.