Gilda's Club Rochester is adapting to the new reality brought by COVID-19 to continue its mission of providing emotional support for those with cancer.

"I mainly just want to be there for them," said Cathy Harris, who currently organizes cancer support group meetings on Zoom. 

She works as a facilitator to help people open up to each other about living their lives with cancer.

"They share information in a way that's so helpful. They'll say, 'Oh right. I went to so-and-so and we did this so make sure to ask about that.' Very helpful to each other. I think that's what makes Gilda's Club special; the folks that are helping each other," Harris explained.

The support doesn't stop at the Zoom meetings. Gilda's Club CEO Melinda Merante points out they also offer online cooking classes, art programs, and wellness classes.

"Now, we feel that the support groups have gone so positively that this may be an option that we can support people during all times of the year, but just doing it a little differently than in-person. Gilda's Club is really all about community and connection and making sure the people with cancer feel like they have a place to go," said Merante.

While the coronavirus may separate the group physically, Harris says they are always here to help.

"I'm a very physical person and I enjoy being able to show my support and reaching out that way. Yeah, it's frustrating but it's all worth it in the end," said Harris.

Anyone affected by cancer, along with their friends and family, interested in more information about upcoming virtual programs can contact Diane Morris at dmorris@gildasclubrochester.org (cancer support groups), or Carin Adams at cadams@gildasclubrochester.org (health-and-wellness and art classes).