The inaugural Community of Support Breast Cancer Luncheon was held July 14 at The Wellness Community Valley/Ventura's Central Coast Satellite in Paso Robles.

The luncheon allowed women in all phases of the cancer journey to meet face-to-face and share their experiences. Women who are newly-diagnosed had a chance to talk with those who have completed treatment, perhaps alleviating the isolation and stress that can arise after a breast cancer diagnosis.

"My hope for the Community of Support Luncheon is to inspire women to reach out and support each other, and to be active participants in their recovery," said Central Coast Satellite Program Coordinator Kenda Kellawan.

The Wellness Community Valley/Ventura is committed to providing support for women affected by breast cancer through the Frankly Speaking series, Breast Cancer Connection events, and professionally-led support groups. We are excited to extend similar programs to the Central Coast Satellite, thanks to the generous support of the local community.

Upcoming breast cancer events:

• Community of Support Breast Cancer Luncheon
  Monday, August 11, 12-2pm, Central Coast Satellite
  Please call 805.238.4411 to RSVP
• Look Good, Feel Better
  Thursday, August 28, 6-8pm at The Wellness Community Valley/Ventura in Westlake Village
  Please call 805.379.4777 to RSVP
• Frankly Speaking About Advanced Breast Cancer with Silvana Martino, D.O.
  Thursday, September 25, 6:30-8:30pm at The Wellness Community Valley/Ventura in Westlake Village
  Please call 805.379.4777 to RSVP

David Dubin, M.D. will present Spiritual Perspectives on Thursday, July 31, 6:30 - 8:00 pm at The Wellness Community Valley/Ventura, 530 Hampshire Road, Westlake Village. Please RSVP by calling 805.379.4777.

Spiritual Perspectives is an ongoing series of evening workshops featuring speakers from a variety of spiritual disciplines. David Dubin, M.D., will speak about meaning and the cancer journey from a Buddhist perspective. In his talk Dr. Dubin will address attitudes related to living and dying in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. He will also teach a short meditation practice. Dr. Dubin is a senior student of Shambhala Buddhism, has taught many Buddhist programs and for 2 years taught a course in meditation at Reed College in Portland. Dr. Dubin was an emergency room physician for 10 years and currently has a practice in Santa Monica specializing in EEG neurofeedback, a specialized form of biofeedback.

To RSVP please call 805.379.4777 or email twcinfo@wellnesscommunityhope.org.

The Garden of Hope is becoming a reality, and we would like to thank the generous donors who have made it possible. Click here to view a list of donors who have sponsored statues, benches, wall tiles, trees, and bricks.

It has long been our dream to turn the spacious corner lot on which our building sits into an outdoor sanctuary for the cancer patients and their families who come through our doors. On behalf of the Board of Directors, Trustees, participants, staff, and facilitators, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to all who have made the Garden of Hope possible.

There is still time to Plant the Seeds of hope! Be a part of the Garden of Hope by sponsoring a statue, wall tile, brick, or making a general donation. Click here to Plant the Seeds of Hope.

Please join us as we break ground on the Garden of Hope Sunday, September 7 at 2:00pm. The ceremony will feature refreshments and fun for the whole family. Please RSVP 805.379.4777.