Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support FAQ
How do I contact the Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support?
If you are a cancer patient at Piedmont Athens Regional, someone from the center will visit you during your stay.
If you are outside the hospital, you may contact the center at 706-475-4900 or you can visit the center in Athens at 240 Talmadge Drive. Parking is right next to the center.
In either case, you will have an opportunity to share your concerns and ask questions about support and services that would be helpful to your particular situation.
There are compassionate and knowledgeable staff and volunteers available to assist you with your questions and concerns.
Can anyone really understand what I'm going through?
Only cancer survivors truly know the fears and concerns you're experiencing. Many patients find a support group helps them learn more about their cancer and treatment. It can also help you gain more understanding of your own thoughts and feelings.
Many of us tend to think if we were strong enough, we can fix our own problems and deal with our own fears. That path can be lonely. Talking with other cancer patients helps, because they understand and offer hope and encouragement.
What if I don't want to attend meetings or groups, but need information and support? Is there something for me?
If you do not want to attend meetings or groups our Licensed Clinical Social Workers and nurse navigator are available for one on one consults by phone, telehealth platforms, and in person.
Are there other opportunities for my family to learn about cancer?
Regular workshops are offered in the community to educate people about screening tests and the risk factors of cancer. The hope is to increase awareness so we will be able to detect cancers sooner and increase the effectiveness of treatments.
The Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support also offers a series of free seminars, workshops and classes to cancer patients, families and friends. These programs are all designed to give people the tools they need, as they need them, to navigate their path during diagnosis, treatment and beyond.
Does the Loran Smith Center charge for any of the services provided?
All services are provided free of charge to any patient or family in our community through the Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation, a not-for-profit arm of Piedmont Athens Regional.
Can I help?
The center relies on the generosity of volunteers and benefits from their time and talents in a variety of ways. Many volunteers are cancer survivors or family members, others are interested people from the community, and still others are professionals who give of their time and skills.
The compassion and unique perspective of our volunteers enrich our quality of services. If you are interested in volunteering, call 706-475-4900 or email LoranSmithCenter@piedmont.org.
Our mission is to provide all the services of the center at no cost to anyone who enters our door. To assist us, individuals, families and corporations may donate in honor or in memory of a loved one. These donations may be designated for the endowment or direct patient services. For more information, call the Piedmont Athens Regional Foundation at 706-475-3301.