Special Workshops & Seasonal Programs
Throughout the year, we offer workshops and short-term programs to nurture, restore, and connect—supporting body, mind, and spirit. These workshops and series explore topics like cooking for nutrition, art, sexuality, journaling, sound healing, nature-based practices and thriving after cancer.
Like all our services, Cancer Connection offers programs free of charge for people living with a cancer diagnosis and their caregivers.
Confidentiality
All of the confidentiality norms and expectations of the standard Cancer Connection Confidentiality Agreement for participants and facilitators remains in effect for telephone, online, or in person activities. We ask all participants to keep confidential the identity of others they meet in group activities, and not to disclose any personal information that is shared in a support group or program to anyone outside of that meeting. We can talk about ideas outside of the group, but not about people.
Registration
Registration requirements vary by program. Please see below for details on each of our programs and information on how to join them.
Like all our services, Cancer Connection offers programs free of charge for people living with a cancer diagnosis, their families, and caregivers.
In addition to our workshops and seasonal programs, we offer weekly classes that foster connection, creativity, and well-being all year long. Join movement practices like Feldenkrais, Qigong, and Yoga, or explore creative and reflective programs such as Knitting, Creative Writing, and Mindfulness. Visit our Ongoing Weekly Programs page for details, or check our calendar for the full schedule.
One-Time Workshops & Seasonal Programs
Mirrors: Equine Assisted Mindfulness Workshop
Mirrors Equine Assisted Mindfulness Workshop with Colleen Campbell and Cris Carl
Register for one of these upcoming Saturday workshops, 10am- 11:30am:
• August 23
• September 13 & 20
Spend time at the Heroes, Horses & Hounds farm in Sunderland learning from and connecting with one of the wisest, most patient and forgiving teachers around, Horses. This workshop focuses on finding peace with your body, connection with yourself and others, sharing and processing lessons learned while going through treatments and finding not only joy but simple fun. Rediscovering play as a way of healing and building resilience. The workshop will consist of mindfulness and journaling exercises, hands on time with the horses and group sharing time. These workshops often help bring clarity and a shift in thinking. Helping people regain a part of themselves that may have been lost along their journey through cancer.
Mirrors takes place outdoors on a farm, so appropriate clothing and footwear will be required. Program details will be provided upon registration. Space is limited. Priority will be given to those that have not attended an Equine workshop before.
Call Cancer Connection on 413-586-1642 to register.
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Colleen Campbell is a certified trainer with the IAABC (international association of animal behavior consultants) and a graduate of UMASS Amherst with an Equine studies degree. At two years old she began asking for a horse. Needless to say Colleen was born with her passion of working with animals and has spent her life following that dream.
Mirrors and Paws for Joy equine and canine assisted therapy and service dog training programs have been developed from years of observations of and working with human and animal teams.
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Cris Carl, LADC1, is a licensed therapist who specializes in trauma, addiction and grief. She has been studying the brain and the effects of trauma and how the brain heals from trauma for over 25 years. Cris has a wonderful way of sitting with people and allowing them to open up in their own time. Allowing people the space they need to feel comfortable sharing whatever they want to share.
Cris loves the animals and has experienced the healing power of horses in the Mirrors program herself, originally starting as a student of the program in 2019. Then lending her gifts to help transform Mirrors into what it is today.
Cancer Connection participants can register for All Out Adventures programs
Join a program at All Out Adventures and Cancer Connection will pay your fees. This summer they have paddling, cycling, hiking, and pickleball.
Starting Tuesday, July 8, they’re launching their full summer schedule of outdoor adventures. Here’s what’s coming up:
- Pickleball every Tuesday afternoon in Holyoke
- Kayaking in Goshen, Hopkinton, Worcester, and Northampton
- Cycling in Hadley
These activities are a great way to move your body, connect with others, and enjoy the beauty of summer in good company.
Mindful Movement in Nature
Mindful Movement in Nature with Lynne Smith
Join our Mindful Movement in Nature summer program where you can enjoy a gentle mind/body practice along with the beauty of the trees, water and sun! Join Lynne at Amethyst Brook parking lot on the 1st and 3rd Fridays of the month The session includes a 10-minute walk to a shaded labyrinth by beautiful sunlit streams and water. We will then practice Qigong which often mirrors movements in nature. Depending on interest from the group, we will change locations in June and July to add some variety to our experience outdoors. Standing practice only. Beginners welcome!
Time: 1pm to 2:10pm
Upcoming Dates:
• August 1 & August 15
• September 5 & September 19
Call Cancer Connection on 413-586-1642 to register. Once registered, you can attend just one or all of the Mindful Movement in Nature classes.
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For twenty years, Lynne has been integrating Qigong into all of her Yoga classes and has witnessed many testimonials of the powerful benefits of the practice when Yoga and Qigong are integrated together. She is a Senior Trainer with the Institute of Integral Qigong and T’ai Chi and produced a Qigong Infused Yoga DVD in 2018. She leads online teacher training programs training other instructors from around the world. She is passionate about and committed to Qigong as she continues to experience the powerful benefits and deep transformation that the practice offers.
Whole food, plant-based Cooking
Whole food, plant-based Cooking with Paul Sustick
Saturday workshops, 10 am to 1 pm.
Register for one of these workshops:
September 6th, October 11th, November 22nd (special Thanksgiving edition) and December 12th
Eating a whole foods, plant-based diet is one of the most fundamental and accessible ways of promoting good health and living well through cancer treatment and beyond.
Come join Paul Sustick of Paul & Elizabeth’s restaurant, as we explore making delicious and nurturing foods that focus on nutrition and incorporating healthful eating habits into daily life.
These workshops will provide instructions on how to transform fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains into delicious healthy meals, empowering you to become a more skilled, confident home cook. Each workshop will include cooking demonstrations and hands-on work as well as practical cooking skills, tips and knife skills.
Bring an apron, cutting board and knife and let’s have some fun while making nourishing, supportive food!
* Priority will be given to participants that have not attended a cooking workshop before.
Call Cancer Connection on 413-586-1642 to register.
Plant-Bases Eating: The What, Why, and How - with Strategies for Success with Julie O’Connor
Plant-Bases Eating: The What, Why, and How - with Strategies for Success
A 3-Session Series
Tuesday, October 7th, 14th & 21st, 5:30-7 pm
This interactive three-part series invites participants to explore the foundations and practicalities of plant-based eating as a path to improved health and well-being. Whether you're curious about plant-based nutrition, just starting out, or looking for sustainable habits, this program offers supportive guidance grounded in lifestyle medicine.
Each session includes group discussion, simple take-home reflections, and approachable strategies for real-life change. Whether you're ready to make a full transition or just want to try a few plant-powered meals, this series is for you.
This program is open to anyone with a cancer diagnosis or is a primary caregiver and is free of charge. Registration is required. Call Cancer Connection to register: 413-586-1642 x104.
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Description tJulie is a Certified Health & Wellness Coach through Wellcoaches, specializing in the Lifestyle Medicine approach. She is also a Culinary Coach, helping clients overcome barriers to preparing more home cooked meals.
Julie also works as a Human Resources Manager for Community Action Pioneer Valley. When not working, she is active in the Hatfield Community Garden, and is most often found in the kitchen (her happy place), or walking with her dogs and husband in the woods of Hatfield. Julie is also a cancer survivor.
Pressed & Distressed: A Journal-Making Workshop
Pressed & Distressed: A Journal-Making Workshop with Diane Potter
Saturday, September 13, 10 am- 12 pm
In this hands-on workshop, participants will create a small, personalized journal with a unique, handmade cover. You'll have two creative options to choose from:
Faux Leather Finish: Learn how to transform crumpled paper bags into richly textured, faux leather covers using embossing techniques and distressing with ink. The result is a beautifully aged, vintage-inspired look.
Botanical Collage Style: Prefer something lighter and nature-inspired? Try your hand at a delicate botanical collage, using pressed flowers, leaves, and layered papers to craft a soft and serene journal cover.
You’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind journal and the skills to continue making more on your own. All materials will be provided, and no prior experience is needed—just bring a pair of sharp scissors, and your curiosity and creativity!
This program is free of charge, but registration is required. Call Cancer Connection at 413-586-1642 x104 to register.
Understanding Osteopenia & Osteoporosis with Dr. Amy Rothenberg
Tuesday, September 16, 5:30 - 7:00 pm
Understanding Osteopenia & Osteoporosis with Dr. Amy Rothenberg
Licensed naturopathic doctor, Amy Rothenberg will review the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis and share evidence-based integrative medicine approaches to maintain and build strong, healthy bones and help reduce the risk of fracture.
The program is free of charge, but registration is required. Call Cancer Connection to register: 413-586-1642 x104.
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Licensed naturopathic doctor, Amy Rothenberg will review the diagnosis and treatment of osteopenia and osteoporosis and share evidence-based integrative medicine approaches to maintain and build strong, healthy bones and help reduce the risk of fracture. This talk is appropriate for anyone with bone density concerns regardless of whether or not cancer is part of the current or past health history.
Gratitude Journaling:
An Invitation to Creativity and Play
Gratitude Journaling: An Invitation to Creativity and Play with Sharon Rudnitzky
Saturday, September 27th, 10:00am - 12:00 pm
This program meets monthly until December. Join one or all of them! Next dates are: October 2nd, November 22nd and December 20th.
Discover the uplifting power of gratitude, creativity and play in Gratitude Journaling—a unique, hands-on workshop designed to nourish your spirit and bring more lightness into your life. Rooted in the proven benefits of gratitude journaling for mental and physical well-being, this class goes beyond words to engage your senses and spark your inner artist.
These workshops invite you to explore gratitude journaling as a practice for healing and emotional well-being. More than just writing, this joyful approach includes words of thanks, along with photos, colors, doodles, stickers, and inspiring quotes. It's a personal sanctuary you can return to again and again for comfort and delight.
Gratitude Journaling offers a nourishing blend of community connection and personal reflection. We’ll gather in a welcoming, relaxed space to share inspiration and creativity. There will be guided prompts, time to create, and gentle encouragement to help you get started—no experience necessary.
This in-person program is open to anyone with a cancer diagnosis or is a primary caregiver and is free of charge.
Registration is required. Call Cancer Connection to register: 413-586-1642 x104.
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My name is Sharon and I moved to Florence 27 years ago and now I live in Haydenville with two daughters and four very friendly cats.
I seamlessly incorporate many of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) principles and values (i.e. Curiosity, Care, Consideration, Play, etc.) in my workshops.
I love being in nature and I enjoy reading and writing poetry. I am also a photographer and especially enjoy taking close-up pictures of flowers. And, of course, I LOVE to look through and add to my gratitude journals!
Your Creativity Matters
Your Creativity Matters with Kate Marion Lapierre
Saturdays, October 4, November 1, December 6, 10am - 12pm
Join together to create your own art for expression and relaxation using a variety of art materials.(watercolor, ink, pencil, collage, etc) The act of creating art allows for individualized expressions and personal viewpoints of what you are seeing, feeling, and how you choose to express yourself visually.
No art skills are needed, just an interest and desire to use art materials and create something for yourself while together with others in a group.
The art group will be under the guidance of Kate Marion Lapierre, a local mixed media artist and retired art therapist, who enjoys doing art using a wide variety of media. She has led groups in both hospital and school settings, as well as having her own art practice. She is excited to gather a group together to allow for creative self-expression and enjoyment. Materials will be supplied. Space is limited to 6 participants- attend one or more workshops.
This program is free of charge, but registration is required. Call Cancer Connection at 413-586-1642 x104 to register.
Time to Heal: Coming Home To Yourself and Your Body After Cancer
Time to Heal: Coming Home To Yourself and Your Body After Cancer with Linda Tumbarello, LMHC
Three class series, in person only: Wednesday, October 8th, 15th & 22nd, 5:30 — 7 pm
A cancer diagnosis often arrives unexpectedly—sometimes from a routine screening, without any warning signs. The urgency to begin treatment can leave little time to process the shock, grief, and fear. You may have had to put your emotions, your needs, and much of your life on hold—pushing through treatment, no matter how difficult.
When treatment ends, the impact lingers. You may feel physically depleted, emotionally raw, or disconnected from the body that carried you through it all. Healing takes time—time to feel safe, grounded, and whole again. This three-session workshop series offers a gentle, supportive space to begin that process.
Rest and relax into your body
Begin to release tension and fear
Honor your emotions in the company of others who understand
Discover practices that nurture physical and emotional well-being
Reclaim a sense of home in yourself
Whether you are weeks or months past treatment, this series is an opportunity to begin moving forward—not just with your mind, but with your whole self. All are welcome, regardless of physical ability or movement experience
This in-person only workshop will be held at Cancer Connection Center. It is free of charge, but registration is required by calling 413-586-1642 ext. 104
Linda Tumbarello, LHMC
Linda is a highly experienced, Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Body-Mind Centering Practitioner and Teacher. She leads workshops and has a private practice in Northampton where she specializes in healing from physical and emotional issues and trauma.
Sound Healing with Carolyn Walker
Sound Healing Workshop with Carolyn Walker
Saturday, October 18th 10 am-12 pm
Sound Healing is a complementary healing modality which utilizes frequencies from both instruments and the voice to regulate the nervous system. In this workshop, Carolyn will offer a Sound Bath and Guided Meditation/Shamanic Journey. Chairs are provided.
This program is open to anyone with a cancer diagnosis or is a primary caregiver and is free of charge. Registration is required. Call Cancer Connection to register: 413-586-1642 x104.
Carolyn Walker received her certificate in Therapeutic Sound Healing through the Center of Light Sound Healing and Shamanic Studies in Chester, VT. Carolyn also holds boths a bachelor's in Music Education and Masters in Music Theory from UMass Amherst. She lives in Amherst, MA with her family and 3 cats, where she teaches violin lessons and offers private Reiki and Sound Healing sessions. Find her at www.CranberryHillHealingArts.com
Author talk with Amy Rothenberg: You Finished Treatment, Now What?
Tuesday, November 18, 5:30 - 7:00 pm
Come enjoy a talk by Dr. Amy Rothenberg, author of You Finished Treatment, Now What? A Field Guide for Cancer Survivors
Have you found it difficult to return to health since cancer treatment? Do you suffer from the long-term effects of your cancer care? You Finished Treatment, Now What? is a roadmap for lifestyle and natural medicine approaches to address health challenges that persist after cancer treatment, and to reduce the risk of recurrence. Dr. Rothenberg highlights the evidence for an integrative approach to healing, and makes sense of this overwhelming topic in an accessible, upbeat way. Dr. Rothenberg shares openly from her own experience as a cancer survivor/thriver.
The program is free of charge, but registration is required. Call Cancer Connection to register: 413-586-1642 x104.
Learn more about our other services
Befrienders
Befrienders are trained staff and volunteers who listen and support both those who have been diagnosed and caregivers through challenging times.
Integrative Therapies
We offer therapies that treat the symptoms of cancer and offer stress relief and comfort to those living with a diagnoses and the effects of treatment
Support Groups
Support groups offer a place where we can laugh, cry, celebrate, and use humor to find relief in the universality of our experiences.