Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – When it comes to having cancer, each patient has their own unique set of stressors, pains, and even types of cancer. But, when it comes down to similarity, they all have the same diagnosis.

Going to a support group and connecting with peers who share that diagnosis, has been proven to help people have better quality of life, and some even lived longer lives. The results of a support group could be very beneficial to many, as long as they attempt to give them a try.

Tia Rapps, Memorial Health Community Cancer Education Coordinator, spoke on the WTAX Morning Newswatch about their support group for cancer patients, and some of the benefits that can come from a group support meeting.

“Even though everybody’s journey is different, the peer support and insight at our group and at our meetings is just invaluable to survivors. I see people walk through the door so anxious and so nervous. We never put anybody on the spot to share. Most of the time we have a topic or a speaker. So people can just come and be present. People walk out and say they are so glad they made that choice to connect” Rapps Stated.

From her personal experience, Rapps said, “Our format is educational, so we provide education and support for patients, to help them make informed decisions and manage their health. Personally, I’ve seen when patients make that choice to walk through that door, which is scary to walk through a door into a group that you have no idea about, but they are living the life you are living, and they understand better than anyone”

Having someone or a group of people who share the same diagnosis, stresses, and ailments that you do, can help someone not feel like they are all alone in that struggle, and can even help them find comfort through the other members of the group.