McLaren Health Care’s Cancer Caregiver Community Program

The Cancer Caregiver Community Program at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, part of McLaren Health Care, began in 2017 thanks to funds given by the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Fund for Caregivers at the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan. This gift allows Karmanos to provide engaging programming to cancer caregivers in Metro Detroit. To reduce stress and provide an outlet for expression, current activities and services offered to caregivers range from art therapy to support groups geared toward enhancing caregiver experiences. Additional activities include jewelry-making sessions, massage therapy, yoga, Reiki, tai chi, and more. Karmanos continues to work on growing the program to include opportunities for caregivers to manage new relationships with other caregivers going through the same journey while developing healthy habits for managing their own emotions. Workshops for caregivers are available in person at Karmanos’ Detroit and Farmington Hills campuses.