Simmons Cancer Institute at SIU School of Medicine

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Side by Side Wellness Program Descriptions

Classes and programs are free to cancer patients regardless of where they are receiving treatment.  Simmons Cancer Institute is located at 315 West Carpenter Street, Springfield.

Call 217.545.0798 for more information.

Weekly Activities

Core Strength Exercise

Exercises focus on strengthening the core using light weights, exercise bands, balance pads, exercise balls and more. Designed for cancer patients to help minimize side effects of treatments and improve strength.

Mondays 12:30 - 1:15 p.m.
Fridays 12:15 - 12:45 p.m.

Tai Chi

Gentle flowing movements are used to perform a series of postures coordinatedTai Chi
with breathing to achieve an inner sense of calm.

Mondays and Thursdays 11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Qi Gong

Physical postures, breathing techniques, and mental focus are used to improve physical and emotional health. The positions can be done while seated and are good for individuals who are less mobile.

Tuesdays 11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Yoga

Learn postures, breathing exercises, and meditation.

Wednesdays 8:30 - 9:45 a.m.

Thursdays 4:45 - 6:00 p.m.

Adapted Yoga

This yoga class is ideal for the less mobile individual. It adapts many classic yoga postures to the seated position.

Wednesdays 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Reiki

The practice of Reiki involves placing hands on the body to enhance well-being and promote relaxation. Reiki works with conventional medicine to improve healing and balance throughout your body. Call 217.545.0798 for appointment.

By Appointment

Tuesdays 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Wednesdays 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Thursdays 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Personal Trainer

Call 217.545.0798 for appointment.
By Appointment, Fridays 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Offered Periodically - Please call 217.545.0798

Nutrition, Cancer and You

A monthly nutrition class offered the 1st Wednesday of each month. Topics Vary month to month.

Look Good . . . Feel Better

Beauty techniques to combat the appearance related side effects of radiation and chemotherapy.
This class is sponsored by the American Cancer Society.

Tying, Tea, Talk and Touch

A headscarf tying class with a side of green tea, conversation and an opportunity to experience Reiki.

Cancer Diagnosis? What’s Next?

A class for those who are newly diagnosed. Learn about cancer, chemotherapy, radiation the importance of exercise and nutrition and more.

Coping with Cancer: A Mind-Body Approach

A six-week workshop to combat the depression, anxiety, anger, confusion and stress of a cancer diagnosis through the understanding of the mind-body connection and by developing techniques to manage the diagnosis. This class is sponsored by the Friends of St. John’s.

Cancer Transitions: Moving Beyond Treatment

A six-week workshop designed to help cancer survivors make the transition from active treatment to post-treatment care. Exercise, nutrition, medical management and emotional well-being are the topics of focus.

Support Groups

Support groups gather to share thoughts, concerns, feelings and experiences about cancer. Support Groups connect people facing similar challenges. Educational activities are offered as needed and groups are led by Psych-Oncology staff. Days, times, and frequencies of meetings vary. Call for more information – 217-545-0798.

Current Support Groups: Caregiver Support Group, Group, Lung Cancer Support Group, and Women’s Support Group.

Other Services

Electric Massage Chair. 15 minute massage by chair.

Peer-to-Peer Support. There are many matching programs available to those interested in speaking to someone who has had a similar cancer diagnosis. Call 217-545-0798.