Staying Connected
We are so pleased to share that BCAK is leading a new program, called Staying Connected, through the support of the Smith-Homestead Foundation! The goal is to introduce programming that will improve outcomes for those impacted by breast cancer in Kingston and the surrounding area, by providing opportunities to enhance social connection and networking in addition to art and recreational therapeutic programming.
We plan to host events each month that will be fun and will bring BCAK members together for an art-based or recreational activity designed to create a supportive network and social connection that can benefit anyone within the breast cancer journey (newly diagnosed, in treatment, post treatment). Research has shown that social connections and art based activities can improve outcomes for those with breast cancer, so it is important that we get connected!
Staying Connected is about having fun, learning new arts and recreation based activities, meeting new friends and getting together with current ones while creating a strong and supportive breast cancer community! Some members have already shared that they are interested in painting nights, bowling, getting together to sing songs, line dancing, creating centrepieces ...and the list has just started! Because of the generous support of the Smith-Homestead Foundation, all costs for the activities will be covered, and if getting to the activity is a challenge, just let BCAK know so we can explore how we can support. Wherever possible, if anyone can’t attend the activity in person, we will do our best to leverage any virtual options that could support your inclusion and participation.
In December 2023, a Holiday Workshop was the kick off to have BCAK members build a Grinch Christmas tree centrepiece and also create beautiful ornaments. In January, a group of BCAK members cheered on the Kingston Frontenacs and met player Ethan Miedema whose mother is a 11 year breast cancer survivor. In February, the Book Club group chatted about The Mystery Guest by Canadian author, Nita Prose. In March, members painted porch signs. And in April, members are invited to Cookies & Cards (see below). For more information and to see some photos from these events, check out the Staying Abreast page.
We also want to encourage all of our members to let us know their areas of interest. Everyone is encouraged to complete a Staying Connected survey to help inform future program events.
