Alameda Health System (AHS), in partnership with Cancer Support Community (CSC), Walnut Creek, and the specialty clinics at the Wilma Chan Highland Hospital Campus (WCHHC), is excited to announce a Spanish-language cancer support group.
“We chose to partner with Cancer Support Community because of our shared commitment to advancing health equity and expanding access to patient-centered cancer care, particularly for underserved communities in Alameda County,” said Ayemoethu Ma, MD, director of breast surgery.
The group provides a welcoming space for patients, survivors and family members affected by all types of cancer to share experiences, learn from one another and find support throughout their cancer journey.
The group will be facilitated by Edna Castillo, a bilingual cancer support facilitator, author and cancer survivor from the CSC of the San Francisco Bay Area, who leads support groups and workshops in English and Spanish.
“We know that emotional and mental well-being are critical to a patient’s ability to complete cancer treatment,” said Lindsey Deputy, RN, oncology nurse navigator, ambulatory care. “Offering this support group in Spanish helps ensure patients can access support in their native language and in a setting where they feel comfortable and understood.”
Emotional and peer support is especially valuable for patients who face stress, anxiety and cultural or social barriers that can make completing treatment challenging. Support groups provide hope, guidance and encouragement that clinicians cannot always offer.
CSC brings a strong track record of delivering high-quality psychosocial support services that complement the clinical care patients receive at AHS. These programs play a critical role in helping patients manage stress and regain a sense of control.
Dr. Ma shared, “Support groups help patients feel less isolated, relieve anxiety and regain a sense of control. My hope is that participating in this group will help patients cope better, communicate more effectively with their families and care teams and complete treatment with greater confidence.”
The group meets Tuesdays at WCCHHC. Walk-ins are welcome. Providers are encouraged to refer patients to Lindsey Deputy for more information and support.
Click here to learn more:
English: http://www.alamedahealthsystem.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Support-Group.pdf
Spanish: http://www.alamedahealthsystem.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Support-Group-es.pdf