About
CHICS is “Celebrating Hope In Cancer Survivors”; a support group for breast and gynecological cancer survivors, their families and caregivers. We meet on the second Tuesday of every month from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm in the waiting room of the Holy Spirit Breast Care Center Mechanicsburg, 880 Century Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.
Sometimes we have speakers, sometimes a fun program and sometimes just talking among ourselves. Whatever the program, there is always time for networking and sharing experiences with breast cancer. It is not necessary to tell us you are coming. You may just show up and participate.
The support group was started in 1991. At that time, Dr. Soto Hamlin was affiliated with Susquehanna Surgeons. Donna Verbos had approached Dr. Soto Hamlin and asked if she could start a support group. For approximately 8 years, Donna facilitated the support group. They met in the lobby of the Susquehanna Surgeons office. In 1999, Dr. Angela Soto Hamlin and Dr. Kaye Riolo opened the Susquehanna Breast Care Center.
The support group name was the Susquehanna Breast Care Center Support Group.
Shortly thereafter, we decided that we needed a catchy name for the support group. We then became known as CHICS (Celebrating Hope In breast Cancer Survivors)!
Through the years we have grown by the number of attendees at our monthly meetings. We continue to produce and distribute a quarterly newsletter, participate and plan local events, and established a Phone Bank which is used as a support resource for newly diagnosed breast cancer patients.
We also provide and fill tote bags with information for newly diagnosed women that are distributed through the breast center. In August 2008, CHICS expanded its scope to include women with gynecologic cancers.
We believe all women can embrace who they are,
can define their future, and can change the world.
Our Mission
The Celebrating Hope In Cancer Survivors (CHICS) support group aims to meet the extended needs of persons dealing with breast and gynecological cancer!
Our Vision
HOPE both during and after cancer for a better life
EMOTIONAL SUPPORT through listening and sharing
ADVOCACY for patients and their family members
INFORMATIONAL SUPPORT through educational events
CELEBRATION of disease milestones and survival!