Cancer Care Journey Patient and Family Guide

Dietitian

Educates patients about eating well during and after treatment and helps them:

• Manage symptoms of cancer or the side effects of treatment
• Stay hydrated
• Create a personal nutrition plan
• Control weight loss or gain
• Understand the risks and benefits of diet therapies

Drug Access Navigator (DAN)

Helps patients understand their drug coverage options, access available drug coverage support programs, and updates the team on the patient’s coverage status.

Nurse Practitioner (NP)

• Has advanced skills in cancer care and:
• Provides physical exams
• Orders and interprets tests
• Prescribes treatments, including medicines
• Performs medical procedures
• Provides education and support
• Works with your team throughout your cancer care journey

Oncologist

Doctors trained in treating cancer.
There are three main types and you may see more than one depending on your cancer and treatment plan:

• Medical oncologists and hematologists – Treat cancer with medicines (e.g., chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy).
• Radiation oncologists – Treat cancer with radiation therapy.
• Surgical oncologists – Treat cancer using surgery.

Oncology Nurse

Certified nurse with specialized training in cancer care who:

• Administers chemotherapy or other medications
• Helps manage symptoms related to cancer
• Provides education and ongoing support throughout your cancer care journey

Ontario Health atHome

Provides home and community care services including Personal Support Workers, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapist, Long Term Care Counselling and applications. Speak with your care team for a referral.

Patient Navigator

All patients:
Registered nurse with specialized training in cancer, helps patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options, and:

• Coordinates appointments
• Provides resources
• Offers emotional support
• Assists with issues in getting care

Patients and family members who identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit):
The SHN or regional Indigenous Patient Navigator (IPN) provide support by promoting culturally safe and equitable care, and by creating a welcoming space where traditional healing is respected and supported.

Pharmacist

Reviews medicine orders and double-checks to make sure they are correct and provides education and information on how to safely take your medicines.

Psychiatrist

A specialist who is trained to evaluate patients and distinguish between a typical emotional response to a cancer diagnosis and symptoms indicative of a psychiatric disorder. Speak with your care team for a referral.

Social Worker

Helps you cope with some challenges that may come with a cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship (e.g., personal, financial, legal, housing, and emotional needs). They can offer information and connect you to resources for concerns about:

• Finance or work
• Family and mental health
• Transportation and daily care
• Difficult life decisions and advanced care planning
• Managing care needs and daily activities at home
• Finding resources specific to your cancer
• Connecting with community resources and programs

Spiritual Care Professional

Offers culturally and spiritually sensitive support to patients and families of all faiths or none. Services include grief counseling, bereavement support, access to spiritual literature, prayer mats, sacred spaces, and inspirational music. Speak with your care team for a referral.

Ask for the information most important to you right now. You do not need to get all the
details at once; there will be many opportunities to learn more. For a general picture of
your cancer and treatment, consider asking about:

• Your type of cancer
• The stage of your cancer
• If it has spread to any other parts of your body
• Recommended treatments (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, or a combination)

Use your Cancer Care Journey Planner to see the list of common questions you may have at different times during your cancer journey and help you to prepare your questions and record the answers.

SHN offers free interpretation services by qualified medical interpreters in over 200
languages (e.g., American Sign Language, Cantonese, Hindi, Mandarin, Tagalog,
Tamil, and Spanish). Interpreters are available in person between Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 24/7 over the phone.

Let your care team know if you would like to speak with them in your preferred language.

Your preferred language is noted in your health record when you book your appointment, which your care team will see. They will arrange an interpreter as needed.

An over-the-phone interpreter is arranged for short appointments, follow-up visits, and diagnostic tests. An in-person interpreter is arranged for long appointments.

MyChart is a secure online tool you can use on your computer or mobile device. It helps keep track of your health and care from hospitals in the Central East region and beyond.

What MyChart can do for you

Stay connected to your information online:

• See details about your appointments and visits
• View your test results
• Share information with family or caregivers for seamless health record management

Track your health:

• View your health information, medication lists, and immunization records
• Read educational materials and discharge information from previous visits and hospital stays

Paperless Billing:

• Set up online billing through your MyChart

Sign up for MyChart today

Your feedback helps us know what’s going well and where we can make improvements. If you
have a concern, tell your care team. For further assistance, speak with the unit manager or visit SHN.ca/patient-relations.

It is stressful to find out you have cancer. You may have a lot of questions and concerns. You may be unsure what to expect or what to do next.

Read the list below or download the printable version for information on the cancer supports available to you and your family members or care partners. Ask to talk to a cancer centre social worker if you have questions or concerns.

The content was adapted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

The Canadian Cancer Society offers support and information. This includes:

• A Peer Support Program: The Canadian Cancer Society will connect you or your family member/partner-in-care with a trained volunteer who understands what it is like to live with cancer. Support is available over the phone or in person through group support or personal visits.
• A Cancer Information Service: You can call and get information about cancer and cancer treatment, research and other resources and organizations. You can also ask to have this information mailed to you. Call 1-888-939-3333 or visit the Canadian Cancer society website.
• CancerConnection offers support groups and information about cancer. For more information visit their website: www.cancerconnection.ca
• The “Life After Cancer Treatment” booklet found on the Canadian Cancer Society website

Cancer Support Centres offer you and your family member or care partner supports, education, groups and resources.

Community Organizations can help you with transportation, meals and caregiver relief (cost associated).

Home care

Ontario Health atHome (previously named Home and Community Care Support Services): A Care Coordinator will help you plan for the care and services you need at home.

For more information call 1-800-263-3877 or 310-2222 or visit ontariohealthathome.ca.

Hospices offer support and care in the community or in a hospice residence

Indigenous Patient Navigator at SHN

Can offer support to you if you:

• Identify as having Indigenous ancestry
• Identify as having First Nation, Métis or Inuit heritage
• Have Indigenous cultural needs

For more information, please visit SHN.ca/indigenous-patient-navigator.

Peer Support Programs can connect you with someone who has had a similar experience with cancer. Many organizations offer online and in-person peer support.

Other organizations offering support:

Olive Branch of Hope (breast cancer specific)

offers support groups, seminars and workshops for Black women with cancer to share their experiences, build a support system, and learn healing and coping strategies during and after a cancer diagnosis. Visit www.theolivebranch.ca or call 416-256-3155.

African Cancer Support Group
Offers mental, emotional, financial and educational supports to African/Caribbean/Black Canadians and their family members or care partners. Website: africancancer.ca

Queering Cancer
Offers resources and supports to individuals and their care partners from LGBTQ2+ communities. Website: queeringcancer.ca

Look Good Feel Better
Offers virtual and in-person workshops to women and men on how to manage the effects of cancer and treatments on your physical appearance. These workshops offer information on skin care and hair alternatives. Visit lgfb.ca for more information.

Muslim Women with Cancer Support Group
A free support group for Muslim women to connect, help and learn from each other while navigating all stages of cancer. Offered as an online Zoom meeting on the 1st Monday of each month at 7 pm. Email Sheylna at shelyna@rogers.com to register and receive the Zoom link.

Young Adults Cancer Canada
Offers online supports and resources to young adults. You will find a list of activities and retreats on the website that can help you connect with other young adults. For more information call 1-877-571- 7325 or visit youngadultcancer.ca.

Chinese Cancer Support Group – South Riverdale Community Health Centre
Second Tuesday of every month from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please call Grace Ho for more information: 647-642-8196 or 416-461-3577 ext. 2248.

Complementary therapies

• The College of Naturopaths of Ontario offers a list of registered naturopathic doctors. Call 416-583-6010 or visit collegeofnaturopaths.on.ca.
• The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre offers information on natural health products. For more information visit mskcc.org.

Managing symptoms

• Cancer Care Ontario offers information on what you can do to manage the symptoms you have. For more information visit cancercareontario.ca/en/symptom-management.
• Canadian Lymphedema Framework offers information on what you can do to manage lymphedema. For more information call 647-693-1083 or visit canadalymph.ca. You can also find information on the Lymphedema Association of Ontario’s website at lymphontario.ca

Returning to Work
The Cancer and Work website has information about returning, remaining, changing work or looking for work after a diagnosis of cancer. For more information visit cancerandwork.ca.

Wellspring online programs 

• Returning to Work. For more information or to register, visit wellspring.ca/returning-to-work
• Wellness at Work: Managing Stress in the Workplace. For more information or to register, visit wellspring.ca/program/wellness-at-work
• Back at Work: Managing Stress at Work. For more information or to register, visit wellspring.ca/program/returning-to-work
• Wellness at Work: Moving Beyond Cancer and Letting Go. For more information or to register, visit wellspring.ca/program/wellness-at-work

Self-Management Program Central East offers self management workshops on living a healthy life. These workshops are offered online. Call 1-866-971-5545 or visit ceselfmanagement.ca.

Counselling

For private counseling services you can contact the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at your place of work. Your school may also offer support. You can also look for counsellors on this website: psychologytoday.com or talk to your family doctor about being referred to someone.

If you are between the ages of 18 and 39, ask for a copy of the Information and Supports for Young Adults with Cancer handout or download a printable version if you did not already receive a copy.

211 Ontario

211 is a helpline offering information on services, programs and supports in your community. Call or text 211 or go to the website found at 211ontario.ca for more information.

It is stressful to find out you have cancer. You may have a lot of questions and concerns. You may be unsure what to expect or what to do next. As a young adult, you may have concerns related to:

• Physical changes
• Finances
• Education
• Work
• Intimacy and sex
• Fertility
• Family members/partners-in-care

Read the list below or download the printable version for information on the supports available to you and what you can do to manage your concerns. Ask to talk to a social worker if you have questions or concerns about any of this information.

The content was adapted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

Physical changes
You may experience physical changes caused by your cancer and cancer treatments. Ask the healthcare team about the physical changes you may experience. You may be worried or have concerns about these physical changes. Talk to your healthcare team about this.

Finances
Learn about the benefits and financial assistance programs offered through your work, federal and provincial governments or non-profit foundations. Ask your healthcare team for a copy of our Financial Supports handout or go to: lakeridgehealth.on.ca/en/ourservices/resources/Cancer/Financial-Supports.pdf

Go to wellspring.ca/programs and search ‘finance’ for information on available programs and webinars.

Education and work schedules
You may need to make changes in your schedule for school or work because of your cancer treatments. This may mean working or going to school part-time or taking a leave of absence. This may be a difficult decision for you to make. Talk to your healthcare team about this.

Go to wellspring.ca/programs and search ‘work’ for information on available programs and webinars.

Intimacy and sex
Cancer may affect how you see your relationships and how you feel about intimacy and sex. Talk to your healthcare team about this. Ask your healthcare team for a copy of our Sexual Health handout or go to lakeridgehealth.on.ca/en/ourservices/your-sexual-health.asp

Fertility preservation
Cancer treatment can change your ability to have biological children. You may want to preserve your fertility by freezing your sperm or eggs. Talk to your healthcare team about this before treatment starts. Ask your healthcare team for one of these handouts:

• Fertility Preservation for People Who Produce Eggs
• Fertility Preservation for People Who Produce Sperm

Your family members/partners-in-care
Your family members/partners-in-care will need information about your cancer and cancer treatments too. This may help them understand your experience and how you may be feeling. Supports you find helpful may also be helpful for your family members/partners-in-care. This may help them know how to best support you. Your family and friends may offer to help you in practical ways (example: make a meal for you or drive you to an appointment). You may need to ask them for help.

Supports available to you and your family members/partners-in-care
It is important to find ways to care for yourself. It may help to listen to calming music, participate in a yoga or meditation class, or spend time with friends and family. Think about what made you happy before you had cancer. Find ways to bring those things into your new routine. Keeping things normal can be helpful.

You may find it helpful to talk with someone about your experience and feelings. See the list below for the options available to you. The type of support you find helpful may depend on your needs.

Organizations offering support to young adults with cancer

1. AYA (Adolescent and Young Adult) Program at Princess Margaret Hospital
   • AYA Program | Princess Margaret Cancer Centre
   • Adolescent and Young Adult Program (AYA) For Young People Ages 18-30 with cancer
2. Canadian Cancer Society offers information about cancer. You can talk to someone about how you are feeling. You can do this by phone or through a chat group. Call 1-888-939-3333 or visit their website at www.cancer.ca and search ‘how we can help’.
3. CancerConnection offers support and information about cancer. Call 1-888-939- 3333 or go to the website found at www.cancerconnection.ca.

Cancer Fight Club
Offers programs for young adults facing cancer, which includes peer support, workshops and seminars, retreats, exercise and physical activities, social get- togethers, stress management. Go to the website found at cancerfightclub.com for more information.

First Descents
Offers outdoor adventures for young adults living with cancer. Participants must have been diagnosed with cancer between the ages of 15 to 39 and must currently be between the ages of 18 to 45. Go to the website found at firstdescents.org for more information.

Look Good Feel Better
Offers virtual and in-person workshops to women and men on how to manage the effects of cancer and treatments on your physical appearance. These workshops offer information on skin care and hair alternatives. Go to the website found at lgfb.ca for more information.

Movember
Offers information and supports to young adults with testicular cancer. This organization also offers information and support for mental health challenges. Go to the website found at ca.movember.com for more information.

NanKind
Offers in-person and virtual support to young moms and their families living with a cancer diagnosis. This includes:

• In-home childcare (4 hours/week).
• Meal support with healthy and delicious meals delivered to your
• Virtual homework
• Fun-in-a box: A fun and creative activity box delivered to your door once a month with 4 weekly
• A support group for
• One to one support with a Child Life Specialist for
• The Ronda Green Camp Program providing children the chance to go to the camp of their choice and experience the magic a summer camp has to

You need to meet certain criteria for some of the programs. Email info@nankind.com for more information.

Pink Pearl
Offers resources and supports for young adult women. This includes peer support programs. Visit pinkpearlcanada.org for more information.

Queering Cancer
Offers resources and supports from LGBTQ2+ communities for you and your family members/partners-in-care. Visit queeringcancer.ca for more information.

Stupid Cancer
Offers resources and peer support. They host meet-ups, a yearly convention as well as digital webinars. Visit stupidcancer.org for more information.

Young Adult Cancer Canada (YACC)
Offers online supports and resources. You will find a list of activities and retreats on the website that can help you connect with other young adults. Call 1-877-571-7325 or visit youngadultcancer.ca for more information.

YACC Chats are held multiple times a week for any young adults diagnosed with cancer. Each chat is themed to offer a variety of opportunities to connect within the young adult cancer experience.

YACC Chats Series is similar to the regular YACC Chats, but participants sign up and commit to getting together weekly for eight weeks in order to deepen connections and build on the conversation.

Out With Cancer is a monthly chat that provides a safe space for 2SLGBTQIA+ people to connect with others diagnosed with cancer in a private, affirming, empowering online space.

Advanced and Metastatic Chats is a monthly chat that provides a safe space for people who have been diagnosed with an advanced or metastatic cancer with other young adults who understand this experience.

Cancer Support Centres

1. Gilda’s Club of Greater Toronto offers support groups for you and your family members/partners-in-care. Call 416-214-9898 or visit www.gildasclubtoronto.org for more information.
2. Hearth Place Cancer Support Centre offers individual and group support, education and wellness programs. They offer a ‘Young Hearts’ support group for adults between 18 and 40. Call 905-579-4833 or visit www.hearthplace.org for more information.
3. Wellspring offers online support groups and educational workshops. Call 1-877-499-9904 or for more information go to the website found at www.wellspring.ca/online-programs

The content was adapted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

It can be hard to find a family doctor or nurse practitioner in the area where you live. Read the list below or download the printable version for information on what you can do if you need to access health care without going to an emergency department.

The content was adopted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

Cancer and cancer treatments can affect your relationships, body image and intimacy. It may change the way you feel about sex. It is also common to have fears and worries that may affect your relationships with others. This can cause changes in your stress level and emotions.

What you can do to help:

• Talk to a member of your healthcare team about your fears and worries.
• Talk to your family and friends about your fears and worries.
• Ask a member of your healthcare team about programs or supports in your community.
• Keep a daily journal throughout your treatment.

Read the list below or download the printable version for resources. Talk to a member of your healthcare team if you have questions or need a better understanding of the information.

Support groups and education programs 

• Hearth Place Cancer Support Centre or call 905-579-4833
• Wellspring
• Look Good Feel Better Canada or call 1-800-914-5665
• Virtual online programs
• Accepting Your Body After Cancer Treatment: Offered virtually to persons who have had breast or chest cancer. For more information visit rvh.on.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Accepting-Your-Body-After-Cancer-Group-Class.pdf

Patient education resources available online 

Alberta Health Services

• Cancer and Sexuality, Fertility, Body Image and Relationships
• Female Sexual Problems
• Smoking: Sexual and Reproductive Problems
• Low Sexual Desire
• Talking to Your Partner About Sex

Canadian Breast Cancer Network

• Never Too Young: Psychosocial Information and Support for Young Women with Breast Cancer Care booklet

Canadian Cancer Society

• Sex, Intimacy and Cancer booklet

Cancer Care Ontario

• Intimacy and Sex: For People with Cancer and their Partners handout
• Prostate Cancer Patient Guide: How to Manage Sexual Health Problems handout
• Prostate Cancer Guide: How to Manage Hormonal Symptoms handout

Canadian Urological Association

• Erectile Dysfunction handout

Durham Regional Cancer Centre

• Breast Cancer: Information and Supports handout
• Fertility Preservation for People Who Produce Eggs handout
• Fertility Preservation for People Who Produce Sperm handout
• Managing Your Vaginal Symptoms handout
• Progressive Muscle Exercise handout
• Self-Sensate Focus Exercise handout
• The Mirror Exercise handout
• Understanding Sexual Desire
• Understanding Erectile Dysfunction
• Using a Vaginal Dilator
• Wigs and Other Head Coverings handout

Fertile Future

• Cancer and Fertility: A Guide for Young Adults handout

Menopause Clinics

• Mount Sinai Hospital Menopause Clinic is a specialized clinic, caring for women experiencing menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, new sleep problems, mood changes, vaginal dryness, new joint pain, and abnormal uterine bleeding. A referral from your doctor is needed. For more information visit mountsinai.on.ca/care/womens-unit/menopause-clinic.
• The Gynecology Program at Women’s College Hospital offers care for women experiencing menopausal symptoms. A referral from your doctor is needed. For more information visit womenscollegehospital.ca/care-programs/gynecology.

Pelvic Health Solutions

• Pelvic exercises for women or persons with a vulva/vagina
• Pelvic exercises for men or persons with a penis
• Finding a physiotherapist who specializes in pelvic health

Sunnybrook’s Odette Cancer Program Patient & Family Education

• Online centre for resources and information about cancer

The North American Menopause Society

• Causes of Sexual Health Problems
• Effective Treatments for Sexual Health Problems

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada

• Concerns and Sexual Problems
• Menopause and Health Concerns
• Causes of Sexual Health Problems
• Effective Treatments for Sexual Health Problems

Wellspring

• Canada-wide network of charities, offering programs and services, at no charge and without referral to anyone, with any type of cancer, at any stage of their journey: wellspring.ca

Finding Sex Therapy and Counselling Supports 

• BESTCO: Board of Examiners in Sex Therapy & Counselling in Ontario (sex therapist directory): bestco.info/bestco-member-directory
• Canadian Association for Marriage and Family Therapists or call 416- 907-4620.
• Psychology Today (Canada)
• Catholic Family Services or call 905-725-3513
• Durham Family Services or call 905-666-6240.

You are a caregiver if you provide physical and/or emotional care to another person who is not well. This includes a person who is receiving care and treatment for a cancer diagnosis. This handout offers information and supports for caregivers.

It can be stressful to be a caregiver. You may need to be a caregiver for weeks, months or even years. It is not something you expect or plan for. It often involves taking on new responsibilities. At times you may feel unprepared or overwhelmed. You may have a lot of questions and concerns or be unsure what to expect or what to do next. Caregiving can be very rewarding. You may feel a closer bond with the person you care for and find strength you did not know you had.

As a caregiver, it is important to take care of your physical and emotional health. This helps you have the strength you need to be a caregiver.

Read the Canadian Cancer Society’s booklet on Being a Caregiver to Someone with Cancer. 

Read the list below or download the printable version for suggestions on how to take care of yourself. Ask to talk to a social worker at the cancer centre if you have questions or concerns about any of the information.

The content was adapted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

Access support
Talk to another person about your experience as a caregiver. This may include a family member, friend, social worker, counsellor, or others in a caregiver support group. Tell this person about any feelings you have.

Learn what caregiving tasks are needed
Make a list of your caregiving responsibilities (what you need to do). How much care and support the person needs may change over time. The person may need less care and support as they get stronger and healthier after treatment is finished. The person may need more care over time if their cancer is advanced.

Set limits
You may need to set limits. Ask yourself:

• What caregiving responsibilities can I manage along with other responsibilities (examples: at home, work, school)?
• Are there others I can ask to help with some of the caregiving responsibilities? It may be helpful to see what other resources and supports are available to you.

Resources and supports available to you

Ontario Health atHome
A care coordinator from Ontario Health atHome will help plan for care and services in your home. For more information, call 1-800-263-3877 or 310-2222 or go to the website at ontariohealthathome.ca. A referral from the healthcare team is not needed.

My Cancer Circle (online tool)
Offers a free, online tool to help manage the list of people who want to help with caregiving responsibilities. For more information visit mycancercircle.net.

NanKind
Offers support services to people who have young children. These services include child-care, meal support, homework help, and peer connections. For more information visit nankind.com.

Teva Canada
Offers a free online tool to help you create a personalized plan to improve your overall health and wellbeing as a caregiver. For more information visit caregiverselfcareplan.ca.

Caregiver information and supports (listed in alphabetical order)

African Cancer Support Group
Offers mental, emotional, financial and educational supports to African, Caribbean, Black Canadians and their caregivers. For more information visit africancancer.ca.

Bladder Cancer Canada
Offers online support groups and one-on-one support for caregivers of people living with bladder cancer. For more information, go to the website found at bladdercancercanada.org.

Canadian Cancer Society
Offers an online community to connect people with cancer and their caregivers with others who know what they are going through. For more information, email cancerconnection@cancer.ca or visit cancer.ca/en/living-with-cancer/how-we-can-help/connect-with-our-online-community. You can also search ‘caregiver’.

Ontario Health – Cancer Care Ontario
Offers a toolkit with resources and information for First Nations, Métis and Inuit people who require palliative care support. For more information visit cancercareontario.ca/en/guidelines-advice/treatment-modality/palliative-care/toolkit-aboriginal-communities.

Canadian Mesothelioma Foundation
Offers facilitated discussion groups for caregivers of people living with mesothelioma. For more information visit cmfonline.org

Caregiver Exchange
Offers practical guides and a list of available supports and services for caregivers. For more information, go to the website found at caregiverexchange.ca.

Colorectal Cancer Canada
Offers educational guides and a support group for caregivers of people living with colorectal cancer. For more information visit colorectalcancercanada.com/colorectal-cancer/who-we-help/family-caregivers.

Gilda’s Club
Offers a caregiver support group. This group discusses topics such as: managing at home, self-care, alternative or complementary treatments, healthy lifestyle choices, and dealing with emotions. For more information visit gildasclubtoronto.org.

Hearth Place Cancer Support Centre
Offers individual and group support, education and wellness programs for caregivers. The support group helps caregivers develop self-care tools to reduce stress, change negative self-talk, communicate their needs to others, manage difficult feelings and help with decision-making. For more information, call 905- 579-4833 or visit hearthplace.org.

Indigenous Navigator for the Central East Regional Cancer Program can offer support to you if you:

• • Identify as having Indigenous ancestry,
  • Identify as having First Nation, Metis or Inuit
  • Have Indigenous cultural

For more information, call 905-576-8711 extension 32554, email kmacleodbeaver@lh.ca or visit lakeridgehealth.on.ca/en/ourservices/Indigenous-Navigator.asp.

Kidney Cancer Canada
Offers an online discussion forum for caregivers of people living with kidney cancer. For more information visit kidneycancercanada.ca.

L’Chaim Cancer Support Program
Offers 1 to 1 support for caregivers of Jewish women living with cancer. For more information visit ncjwctoronto.org/our-projects/lchaim-cancer-support-group.

Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada
Offers online support groups and peer-to-peer telephone support for caregivers of people living with a blood cancer. For more information visit bloodcancers.ca.

Lung Cancer Canada
Offers a support group for caregivers of people living with lung cancer. For more information visit lungcancercanada.ca, and navigate to “resources” and select group support.

Lymphoma Canada
Offers 1 to 1 peer support for caregivers of people living with lymphoma. For more information visit lymphoma.ca.

Melanoma Canada
Offers 1 to 1 peer support for caregivers of people living with melanoma. For more information visit melanomacanada.ca.

Myeloma Canada
Offers online and in-person peer support groups for caregivers of people living with myeloma. For more information visit myeloma.ca.

Ontario Caregiver Organization
Offers 1 to 1 support, peer group support, practical resources and toolkits to help you organize your caregiver responsibilities. They also offer a helpline that provides 24/7 support by phone or as an online chat. For more information visit ontariocaregiver.ca.

Handouts available on the website:

• I am a Caregiver
• I am a Caregiver (adapted for Indigenous People)
• Work and Caregiving: A Balancing Act

Pancreatic Cancer: Craig’s Cause Pancreatic Cancer Society
Offers a support group for caregivers of people living with pancreatic cancer. For more information visit craigscause.ca.

Prostate Cancer Canada Network – Side by Side
Offers a peer support group for caregivers of people living with prostate cancer. For more information, call 416-932-8820, email info@pcstoronto.ca or visit pcstoronto.ca/side-by-side.

Scarborough Centre for Health Communities – Caregiver Wellness
Offers a caregiver wellness program (also available in Tamil). For more information visit schcontario.ca/programs/community-support-services/caregiver-wellness.

Young Caregivers Connect
Offers 1 to 1 peer mentorship, peer support groups, a 24/7 helpline and information for young adult caregivers. For more information visit youngcaregiversconnect.ca.

Young Adult Cancer Canada (YACC)
Offers a private Facebook group for caregivers of young adults living with cancer. For more information, go to the website found at youngadultcancer.ca.

Wellspring
Offers support and wellness programs for caregivers to people living with cancer. For more information visit wellspring.ca.

Education for Caregivers

Central East Self-Management Program
Offers workshops to help you manage stress and build the skills needed to care for yourself as you care for another person. For more information visit ceselfmanagement.ca.

Caregivers CAN
Offers a series of online learning modules with information and strategies to help you build the skills you need as a caregiver. For more information visit virtualhospice.ca/caregiving.

Hospice Palliative Care Ontario
Offers an online, self-learning program for caregivers. For more information visit caregiversupport.hpco.ca/ocp. For First Nations Caregiver Education visit caregiversupport.hpco.ca/ocpfn.

LEAP Carers
Offers an online course with information and resources to help you care for a person living with a serious illness. Topics include: the role of the caregiver, communication skills, advance care planning, providing personal care, and self- care. For more information visit pallium.ca/course/leap-carers.

Caregiving and Work
If you need time away from work to provide care for someone who is ill, there may be financial support available to you. The Federal Government offers two benefits through Employment Insurance: The Family Caregiver Benefit and the Compassionate Care Benefit.

For more information, read the Financial Supports handout.

Counselling
Being a caregiver to a person living with cancer can come with challenges that are unique to you and your personal experience. Accessing individual counselling can help you learn how to manage these challenges.

Everwell
Offers a team of therapists who have lived and professional experience supporting caregivers of people living with cancer. For more information visit everwellcounselling.ca/blog-counselling-psychotherapy-mental-health/are-you-a-cancer-caregiver.

For more information about other community or private counselling services available to you, read the Cancer Information and Supports handout.

Read the list below or download a printable version for different activities you can do with your child to make memories.

The content was adopted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

Hug: Cut a piece of fabric longer than your arm’s reach and wider than your hands. Trace your arms or your child’s arms with hands stretched out. It should look like a scarf with hands on the ends. With your child, use markers, fabric paint, glue and beads to decorate the fabric. You can write words or draw pictures of things that have meaning to you and your child.

Strength beads
With your child, make a list of all the things that give you strength in difficult times (for example: loved ones, faith, or hobbies). Choose a colour of bead to symbolize each of the things that you have listed. Decide how many of each colour of bead you will use. The number of beads you will use depends on how much strength you want them to represent. Your child can make a necklace of strength beads for themselves or for the person who is sick.

Quilt of comfort
Using fabric paint, draw a grid of lines on a blanket or piece of fabric.  You and your family can put anything that is meaningful on the blanket. Pictures, words or symbols can be used. You might include memories or jokes.  This quilt can be used for comfort when a family member is sick. It can also be buried with the family member or kept by the family.

Sweet dream pillowcase
Get a white pillowcase. Using fabric markers, you and your child can put anything that is meaningful on the pillowcase.  Pictures, words or symbols can be used. You might include memories or jokes.  This pillowcase can be used by your child if they are having trouble sleeping or having bad dreams.

Family tree
Have each family member trace their hand on coloured paper. Cut out the hands. Then make a tree trunk shape from a different colour of paper. Cut it out as well. Work together to paste the hands on the tree. These are the leaves of the tree. Write about each person in their hand/leaf. The tree can be decorated with paint, beads, string or any other materials.

Gardening
Planting and working in a garden gives your child a way to take care of another life. It also teaches them that things grow and die. Growing a garden in someone’s honour can help a child feel connected with them, after death.

Memory box
Collect items that hold meaning for you and your child. You might include: art, photos, clothing, jewelry, videos, magazines, books, etc. Place these items in a box.  With your child use markers, fabric paint, glue and beads to decorate the box. A box of memories can be put together by anyone or for anyone. It is most helpful if you can work together as a family to fill the box. It can be kept in your home, buried in the garden or in any special place.

Nankind created Cancer Conversations with Your Kids to help parents affected by cancer talk to their children about their diagnosis in a way that’s clear, supportive, and age-appropriate. This guide is designed to make a difficult conversation easier, helping to ease your child’s fears and anxieties.

Download the printable booklet for information on how to talk with your children about cancer.

Grief is a natural response to losing someone or something that’s important to you. Everyone grieves differently. As you grieve, you may have many different emotions and feelings. Grief can begin even before your family member or friend dies.

Read the list below or download the printable version to learn about the supports and services available to you.

The content was adapted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

Helpful websites

• At LivingMyCulture.ca, people from various cultures share their stories and wisdom about living with serious illness, end of life and grief to support
• Canadian Virtual Hospice provides peer support and on-line services. Website: mygrief.ca
• Center for Loss and Life Transition offers information to help you manage your grief. This site is hosted by Dr. Alan Wolfelt, a bereavement educator and counsellor. Website: centerforloss.com

Others supports available in your community

• For private counseling service, contact the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at your place of work. Your school may also offer
• You can look for counsellors on psychologytoday.com You can also ask your family doctor about being referred to a counsellor.
• Funeral Homes offer grief and bereavement support and information. Contact the funeral home you used or plan to.
• The Indigenous Patient Navigator at SHN offers cultural and emotional support for people who identify as First Nation, Inuit or Metis. Call: 647-669-4904 or email ipn@SHN.ca.

It is normal for you to have feelings of uncertainty. You may find yourself thinking about the future – what might happen and what you will do about it.

It is not possible for you or anyone else to know everything that is going to happen.

If you are always thinking about the “what ifs” and worst-case scenarios, worry can become a problem.

It can:

• Keep you from enjoying the good things you have in life now
• Decrease your energy level
• Cause you to feel anxious or depressed

Telling yourself to stop worrying or distracting yourself may work for a short time. It can also make you worry more. Managing your feelings of uncertainty will help you feel better. When you worry less, you think less about what was or what could be.

Read the list below or download the printable version to learn about exercises that can help manage your feelings of uncertainty. You may want to do some or all of these exercises. It is important to give yourself time to try these exercises and find one that works for you. This can take practice and time.

The content was adopted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

Exercises you can use: 

Become more comfortable with uncertainty
It is not possible for you to know with 100% certainty what is going to happen in life. Before having cancer, there was uncertainty in your life. Life with and after your cancer treatment may seem even more unpredictable. It can be helpful to become more comfortable with not knowing or not having answers right away. To do this:

Take a minute and think back on your life. Ask yourself these questions and think about your answers:

• “What has been unpredictable before?”
• “Where have I faced uncertainty?”

Now, ask yourself these questions and think about your answers:

• “How have I managed when life was unpredictable or uncertain?”
• “Is it possible to be certain about everything in life?”
• “What are the advantages and disadvantages of needing certainty in life?”
• “How is needing certainty helpful and unhelpful?”
• “Do I always think that bad things will happen because life is uncertain?”

Create a worry period 

Picture in your mind an inflated balloon. It you tried to push it underwater it would keep popping back up to the surface. The balloon is like your worrisome thoughts. You keep trying to stop the thoughts but they keep coming back.

Instead of trying to stop your worries or concerns, let yourself have these thoughts, but put off thinking about them until later. This is called delaying worry. This exercise helps you stop thinking about your worries. It will help you get more control over your worrying.

You can learn to delay worry by creating a “worry period”. To do this:

• Choose a time and place for worrying. Choose the same time every day (for example, in the living room from 5 to 5:15 pm). It is better to choose a time early enough in the day so that you’ll have time to relax your mind before bedtime. Give yourself 15 minutes to worry.
• During your worry period worry about whatever is on your mind. The rest of the day is a worry-free zone. For example, if the fear of your cancer coming back comes up at another time in the day, remind yourself that you will have time to think about it later. You don’t need to worry about it right now. You can write your worry on a piece of paper. Save it for later and continue on with your day.
• Go over your worry list during the worry period. Think about the worries you wrote down during the day. If the thoughts are still bothering you, let yourself worry about them (but only for 15 minutes). If your worries are lessened before the 15 minutes, end your worry period early and enjoy the rest of your day.

Challenge your worrisome thoughts
If you find yourself worrying a lot, you may begin to think that your worries will come true. It can be hard for you to stop this way of thinking, but it is possible. You can do this by asking yourself, in your head, these questions and thinking about your answers:

• “Is there proof that what I’m thinking is true?”
• “Is there a better way of looking at my situation?”
• “Is it likely that what I’m scared of will actually happen?”
• “How will worrying help me and how will it hurt me?”
• “What would I say to a friend who has the same worry?”

Sharing your worries
It can be difficult to think or talk about your worries (for example: you may be thinking “I am afraid the cancer will come back and I might die”). It may be helpful for you to share (talk about) your worries with someone you trust. Talking about your answers can be helpful:

• “Is my worry or fear true?”
• “Is there additional information or resources I need?”
• “What can I plan for?”
• “What will my plan of action be?”
• “Who can I ask for help?”

Setting goals
You may have thoughts that stop you from planning for your future. For example, you may find it hard to see yourself in the future. It is possible to enjoy the present moment (the here and now) while planning for your future. It can be helpful to think about what is important to you and set realistic goals for your future. This can help you regain control of your life. To help you set goals for your future, you may want to:

• Think about how you define “the future”. You can think about: tomorrow, next week, a month from now or a year from now.
• Remind yourself that you are an important person who deserves to enjoy life.

Ask your team for a social work referral for more support.

Read the list below or download the printable version for information how to manage the holidays. You may have a long list of things you want to do during the holidays.

The content was adopted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

You may feel:

• You don’t have enough time to do everything on your list.
• Unsure of how you will get through the holiday season.

You are not alone! Everyone has stress in their lives. It can help to stop stress before it starts. This is not always possible. You may find it helpful to do things that make you feel relaxed. This can help you reduce your stress during the holidays.

What you can do to help yourself:

Make lists
You may find it hard to:

• Know what to do first when you have a lot to do.
• Remember all you need to do.

It can be helpful to make a list of the things you have to do, want to do and feel you should do. This allows you to decide what things you will do and when to do them. You may choose not to do some of the things on your list. Make a list of the gifts you need to buy before you go shopping.

Helpful reminders
Leave reminder notes of things you need to do where you are sure to see it.

Ask for help
You do not have to do everything. Ask others to help. Example: suggest having a pot-luck holiday dinner. This allows others to help with the meal.

Take a break
Take a 2 to 10 minute break every hour of the day. This will increase your energy and lower your stress level. Use this time to do some stretches, breathing exercises or go for a walk.

Make back up plans
You may not be able to do all the things you planned. Your plans may have to change. It can help to make back-up plans in advance.

Enjoy the moment
Do not focus on what ‘might’ happen in the future. Think about and enjoy what you are doing now.

Write down your thoughts and feelings
Write down your thoughts and feelings in a notebook or journal. This can help you let your feelings out. It can also help you look at problems in a different way.

Plan time to care for yourself
Plan to do things you enjoy doing.

Talk to someone about your worries
It may help to talk to a friend or a counsellor. Talking about your worries or concerns with someone can help you decide how to help yourself.

Think positive thoughts
Think positive thoughts. This can help to reduce your stress level, help you feel calm and manage stressful situations. You can become more stressed when you think negative thoughts.

Distract yourself
Distract yourself with thoughts and activities you enjoy. This can help reduce your stress level.

Relaxation exercises
Do relaxation or breathing exercises. They can help you feel calm, relaxed and reduce your stress level.

The Canadian Cancer Society offers ‘holiday coping tips from individuals affected by cancer’. Visit cancer.ca and search ‘holiday coping’.

For immediate help: call 911 or go to the Emergency Department at the hospital closest to you.

If you require a referral to a psychiatrist, please speak with your healthcare team.

Read the list below or download the printable version for cancer care mental health services and supports.

The content was adapted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

Mental Health Crisis Supports

1. The 9-8-8:
   • Text or call 9-8-8
   • Suicide Crisis Helpline will offer 24/7/365, trauma-informed and culturally appropriate suicide prevention crisis support in English and French by phone and text for everyone living in Canada
2. Community Crisis Line Scarborough Health Network : 416 495-2891 for 24/7 telephone crisis support.
3. Distress Centre of GTA
   – Offers a 24-hour crisis phone line: 416-408-4357
   – Offers a multi-language line offering services in Cantonese, Mandarin, Portuguese, Spanish, Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu. Open Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. 905-278-4890
4. Talk Suicide: 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645
5. Gerstein Centre: 416-929-5200
6. Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 416-863-0511; Toll-free: 1-866-863-0511
7. Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868; Languages: English and French
8. Warm Line, Progress Place: 1-888-768-2488 Are you feeling lonely, isolated, anxious, depressed or in need of a friendly ear? Chat online, text or call a Warm Line peer support worker, 3pm to 7pm Ontario (EST), 7 days a week.
9. Durham Crisis and Mental Health Line: 905-666-0483
10. Pinewood Centre
    – Offers a 24-hour crisis phone line for substance and alcohol use: 1-888-881-8878.
    – Offers individual or group support and short term stays for substance use withdrawal.

Community Counselling Supports
There are a number of community organizations that offer free or sliding scale counselling supports.  There is often a waitlist for these programs.  Please contact them for more information on offerings and availability:

1. Family Services Toronto
   Phone: 416-595-9618
   General inquiry phone number: 416-595-9230
2. Scarborough Women’s Centre
   Phone: 416-439-7111 ext 107
   Email: ed@scarboroughwomenscentre.ca
   Address:  2100 Ellesmere Rd, Suite 245, Scarborough, ON, M1H 3B7
3. Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities
   Phone: 416-847-4134
   Email: intake@schcontario.ca
   Address: 2660 Eglinton Ave East / 629 Markham Road Unit 2 / 1333 Neilson Road Suite 320
4. Woodgreen Community Services
   Counselling and Support Services
   Phone: 416-572-3575
   Walk-in Counselling Phone Number: 416-645–6000 ext. 1990 (call before 4 p.m. to book a session for that same evening)
   Email: cccentralintake@woodgreen.org
5. Tropicana Community Services
   Phone: 416- 439-9009
   Email: info@tropicanacommunity.org
6. Polycultural Immigrant and Community Services
   Short-term counselling for youth, adults and families who are dealing with a crisis situation.Scarborough North:
   3660A Midland Avenue Scarborough, ON, M1V 0B8
   Phone: 416-439-1293

   Scarborough South:
   3225 Eglinton Avenue East, Units 101 & 111, Scarborough, ON, M1J 2H7
   Phone: 416-261-4901
   Email:info@polycultural.org

7. Catholic Family Services Toronto
   Phone: 416-921-1163
   Woman Abuse Services: 416-222-0048
   Email: info@cfstoronto.com
8. Strides Toronto (Children, Youth and Families)
   Phone Number:  416-438-3697 ext. 19055
   Address: 1200 Markham Road, Suite 200, Scarborough, ON / 1385 Huntingwood Drive, Scarborough, ON
9. Bounce Back
   – Bounce Back Coaching: A trained coach will help you learn skills to improve your mental health (6 phone sessions over 2-6 months).
   – Peer support programs: Lets you talk to others who are experiencing similar issues and challenges. Can help validate what you’re feeling and give you a different perspective on how to copePhone: 905-430-1768
   Toll Free Phone Number: 1-866-345-0224
   Email: bounceback@ontario.cmha.ca

Read the list below or download the printable version to learn about apps that can help you manage your mental health.

This includes problems related to stress, fear, anxiety, depression and sleep. Your family member/partner-in-care may also find these apps helpful to manage their mental health.

These apps are available on the Apple App Store or in Google Play. Apps are listed in alphabetical order. Some apps are free and others require you to pay a fee.

The content was adopted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

Belly Bio Interactive Breathing App
Use the Belly Bio Interactive Breathing app to practice deep breathing techniques and help reduce your anxiety and stress. This app monitors your breathing when you place your device on your belly (abdomen). It plays music, sounds of ocean waves, and more while you relax. This may help reduce your anxiety and stress.

BetterSleep: Relax and Sleep 
Use the BetterSleep app to help you fall asleep in minutes with relaxing sounds and techniques, sleep meditations, and bedtime stories. Learn more: bettersleep.com

Breethe: Sleep and Meditation 
Use the Breethe app to practice breathing exercises and help reduce your stress and anxiety, and improve your sleep. Learn more: breethe.com

Calm
Use the Calm app to meditate and help reduce your stress and improve your sleep. Includes kid-friendly meditations. Learn more: calm.com

Colorfy Colouring Book
Use the Colorfy app to help distract you from feelings of anxiety stress and depression. This app is an online colouring game for adults.

Headspace: Mindful Meditation
Use the Headspace app to meditate and help reduce your stress and improve sleep. This app also includes a movement section with yoga, dance and more. Learn more: headspace.com

Liberate.cx
Supports the Black community in developing a daily medication habit. Meditations cover topics such as sleep, anxiety, anger, self-worth and ancestors.

MindShift CBT – Anxiety Relief
Use the Mindshift CBT app to relax, be mindful and develop positive ways of thinking. This can help you manage anxiety, stress, panic, worry and conflict. A community forum offers the ability to find peer-to-peer support. Learn more: anxietycanada.com

One-Moment Meditation
Use the One-Moment app to meditate and help reduce your stress and anxiety. This app can be useful to children as well. Learn more: onemomentcompany.com

Tactical Breather
Use the Tactical Breather app to learn how to manage your body’s responses to stress (examples: heart rate, emotions, and concentration) during stressful situations.

Three Good Things
Use this app to keep a journal of 3 good things that happen to you every day. Research shows that if you write down 3 good things that happen to you every day, your happiness, positivity and well-being increase. This app allows you to share your journal with your family members and friends. Learn more: the3goodthings.org

Cleaning for a Reason

Read below or download the printable version for information about the Cleaning for a Reason service.

The content was adapted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

This is a free service. The service is available to any person receiving cancer treatment. The service offers you 1 general house cleaning once a month for up to 2 months. You need to apply for this service online. They may not find a match for you in your area right away. Keep applying! The cleaning service in your area will call to plan for your first cleaning.

For more information about Cleaning for a Reason, call 1-877-337-3348 or visit cleaningforareason.org.

Toronto Homemaking & Nurses Services

The Homemakers and Nurses Services Program (HMNS) is a community-based service operated by the City of Toronto. It provides homemaking services through community agency contracts to individuals who require assistance with household activities and who have limited financial resources.

Intake Caseworker, Homemakers & Nurses Services Program
Telephone: 416-392-8579

Read the list below or download the printable version for information about dental supports.

The content was adapted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

Government programs to help you pay for dental care:

Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (ODSCP)
This is a government program that gives free, regular dental care to people who are 65 years of age and older (seniors), and have a low income. To find out if you can apply, or for more information cCall: 416-916-0204 or 1-833-207-4435 (TTY toll free at 1-800-855-0511) or visit the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program website: ontario.ca/page/dental-care-low-income-seniors

Government of Canada’s Dental Care Plan
Financial assistance for dental care if you are over 65 years of age or between the ages of 18 and 64 and receiving the disability tax credit for previous tax year.

Healthy Smiles Ontario
If you have children or youth who need dental care, this government program gives free regular and emergency dental care to children or youth (17 years old and under) from lower income families. For more information about this program:

• Visit the Government of Ontario’s Healthy Smiles webpage: ontario.ca/healthysmiles
• Call Service Ontario at 1-844-296-6306 (TTY toll free at 1-800-387-5559)

Low cost dental care clinics

The following is a list of organizations that offer low cost dental care (if eligible).

Please visit the websites to get the most up to date information about each place & learn about the kinds of dental care they offer.

Toronto Public Health
Call: 416-338-7600
For a list of Toronto Public Health dental clinics visit their Dental Clinics webpage: toronto.ca/community-people/health-wellnesscare/health-programs-advice/dental-and-oral-health-services/dentalclinics

Faculty of Dentistry
Address: University of Toronto 101 Elm Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1G6
Call: 416-979-4925 ext. 4319
Website:: patients.dentistry.utoronto.ca/patients

Regent Park Community Centre
Address: 465 Dundas Street East, Toronto, Ontario, M5A 2B2
Call: 416-364-7019

George Brown College – WAVE Clinic
You will get treatment from dental students. You may need to have more than 1 appointment for your treatment. The clinic is closed July to August and mid-December to early January.

Address: 51 Dockside Dr., 3^rd Floor, Toronto, Ontario
Call: 416-415-4547
Website: georgebrown.ca/wave

Parkdale Queen West Community Health Centre
Address: 168 Bathurst Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 2R4
Call: 416-703-8481

West End Oral Health Centre
Address: 1229 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M6K 1L2
Call: 416-537-2455 extension: 1415

Shout, Dental Treatment Clinic
Address: 467 Jarvis Street, Toronto, Ontario, M4Y 2G8
Call: 416-927-8553

Living with cancer can affect your income and finances. You may have questions about this such as:

• What will happen if I cannot work and have no income?
• How will I pay my bills?

Read the list below or download the printable version for information on financial supports that may be available to you.

Ask to talk to a cancer centre social worker if you have any questions or concerns about the information.

The content was adopted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

Ontario government disability programs (based on your income) 

Federal government programs

Workplace programs (May be offered by your employer) 

Government seniors programs 

Charitable Organizations

You may be eligible for financial support from charitable organizations.

Personal resources

Drug (medication) coverage

Other programs

Read the list below or download the printable version for information on organizations that deliver prepared meals. All of these organizations charge a fee for this service. There may be other organizations in your community that also provide this service (e.g.,: a church or other social group).

The content was adapted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

Heart to Home
Offers frozen meals, soups and desserts in both mini and hearty versions. You can ask for meals that support your special dietary needs (gluten free, vegetarian, lactose free, high fibre, low sodium, controlled potassium and phosphorous, and diabetes). Minced and pureed meals as well as thickened soups are also available. This program delivers within the regions of Durham and Kawartha Lakes. Delivery is free. Call 1-888-777-2219 or visit hearttohomemeals.ca for more information.

Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities
The Meals on Wheels Program offers nutritious hot or frozen meals. Specialty diets can be accommodated (diabetes, gluten free, low calorie, low fat, low sodium, vegetarian, vegan and pureed). Pre-registration with the program is required. Call 416-847-4134 or visit schcontario.ca for more information.

St Paul’s L’Amoreaux Centre

The Meals on Wheels Program delivers hot meals from Monday to Friday or frozen meals on Friday only. Meals offered include Caribbean, Chinese, Greek, Southeast Asian and fusion options. Meals are dietitian approved and offer specialty diets including low sodium, kidney friendly, diabetic friendly and pureed options. You must live in the catchment area which includes West of Markham Road to East of Bayview Avenue and North of Lawrence Avenue to South of Denison Street (Markham). Call 416-493-3333 or visit splc.ca for more information.

Transcare’s Community Support Services
The Meals on Wheels Program delivers hot and frozen meals in the Scarborough area (Victoria Park to Port Union and Steeles to Kingston Road). Meals are developed by dietitians. They offer both Western and Asian cuisine and specialty diets that include diabetic, kidney friendly, vegetarian, dental soft, minced, and pureed. Call 416-646-3574 or visit tcare.ca for more information.

Warden Woods
The Meals on Wheels Program delivers hot or frozen meals, regular or pureed texture. You must live in the catchment area between Victoria Park and Kennedy and Eglinton to the lake. Meals offered include Caribbean, Chinese, South East Asian and more. Call 416-694-1138 extension 139 or visit wardenwoods.com for more information.

Hello Fresh
Offers pre-made meal kits with recipes to follow. Some ready-to-eat meals are also available. Free delivery with some exceptions. Variety of meal options include carb smart, calorie smart, vegetarian, pescatarian, and high protein. Call 1-855-272-7002 or visit hellofresh.ca for more information.

Factor Meals
Offers chef prepared, dietitian approved, ready-made meals cooked fresh daily. Delivery available across Ontario. Shipping fees apply. Meal options include keto, calorie smart, high protein, vegan, vegetarian and more. Call 1-807-790-2770 or visit factormeals.ca for more information.

Halal Meals
Offers certified Halal, fresh meals prepared weekly by a chef. Free delivery across Ontario. Email support@halalmeals.ca or visit halalmeals.ca for more information.

Healthy at home
Offers premade or customized fresh meals made on Sundays only. For delivery or pick up. Call 289-685-9535 or visit healthyathome905.ca for more information.

Spatula Foods
Offers flash frozen, chef prepared meals. Visit spatulafoods.com for more information.

Read the list below or download the printable version for information about where you can find wigs and other head coverings.

The content was adapted with permission from the Durham Regional Cancer Centre.
Last reviewed: April 2025

Not every business selling wigs and other head coverings may be included on this list. The Canadian Cancer Society’s Community Services Locator can help you search for others. Your health insurance plan may provide coverage for you to buy a wig. Call first to see if an appointment is required.

Assist people of all ages with cancer care support or support with managing complex medical conditions at home through:

Services in your home, including health professionals visiting you in your home; personal care; home-making; family-managed home care/self-directed care; and end-of-life care at home

Services in your community, including community clinic visits, exercise and falls prevention classes, and Assisted Living Services

Contact Ontario Health atHome: Call 310-2222

If your function or movement has decreased because of an illness that required hospital admission, you may be entitled to OHIP-funded physiotherapy (you can’t already be accessing physiotherapy services through any other program and you will need a referral from a doctor).

You’re not eligible if this decrease is due to a stroke, heart attack, or joint replacement. Speak to your healthcare team about rehabilitation options specifically designed for these conditions.

Find a clinic near you: ontario.ca/physiotherapy

If you do not have or can’t be seen by a family doctor, SHN’s Urgent Care Centre at our Centenary Hospital offers walk-in medical attention from experienced doctors and nurses for non-life-threatening conditions that do not need to be seen in the Emergency Department.

Learn more: SHN.ca/urgent-care-centre