Empowering Women to Thrive Beyond Their Cancer
Ellen’s Well provides psycho-social support to individuals impacted by cancer, helping them build resilience and improve coping skills
Founded in 2000, Ellen's Well was created with the belief that women can not only survive breast cancer but thrive. Its mission is to address the immediate needs and challenges brought on by a diagnosis and treatment of breast and gynecologic cancers. These challenges include the anxiety of living with a life-threatening disease, the impact on family and work relationships, self-esteem, and a sense of control.
Ellen’s Well is led by Edyle O’Brien, LCSW. Edyle is an oncolcogial social worker with over 20 years of expertise in mindfulness, energy medicine, and life transitions.
All programs and services provided by Ellen’s Well are free of charge.
Ellen's Well is an initiative funded by The Ellen Hermanson Foundation and managed by the Southampton Hospital Foundation.
Edyle O’Brien, LCSW edylecsw@optonline.net
631-329-0520
Message from Edyle O’Brien, LCSW
The choice to participate in a support group is powerful and proactive offering the participant the opportunity to both give and receive support and build a robust and connected community. Just being with others who are meeting similar challenges can be deeply healing! Research indicates that group therapy does more than improve coping skills and quality of life, and that an unexpected benefit of group therapy may be to extend the lifespan. Being heard, understood, and validated by one's peers is extremely good medicine.
Transforming Lives
Support Groups
At the heart of Ellen's Well are its three breast cancer support groups: Newly Diagnosed, Metastatic, and Wellness, with additional groups for spouses and children formed as needed.
Newly-Diagnosed Group
This group welcomes individuals who have recently been diagnosed or are undergoing treatment. Participants receive compassionate support and guidance as they navigate the overwhelming challenges of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Being part of the group helps members discover their inner strength, courage, and desire to thrive, empowering them to make meaningful life changes.
Metastatic Group
The Metastatic Group offers a safe space for those dealing with recurrence or metastasis. Members share their fears, dreams, and challenges while forming deep, supportive friendships. Although there may be tears, the group emphasizes gratitude and laughter, ensuring a positive environment.
Wellness Group
Recognizing that cancer's stress can be long-lasting, the Wellness Group focuses on "feeling good." It incorporates mindfulness and body-centered practices, offering gentle movement, breath work, meditation, nutrition discussions, and humor.
All groups meet weekly, providing a sanctuary for physical, emotional, and mental healing, where participants can revive and rejuvenate their spirits.
Testimonials
"When I finally asked for help in navigating my journey through breast cancer, I reached very caring and compassionate people at the Ellen Hermanson Breast Center."
"The experiences, strength and hope shared in these meetings have bolstered my own resolve to fight and love my way through this battle with breast cancer."
"Even for those of us who are "survivors".... The journey for each of us... is in stages... and it has been so healing to continue AFTER our initial journey of dealing with the disease."
"Edyle is amazing... gentle, guiding, trusting, nurturing... allowing us each to reveal and empty the pains...and to heal, grow beyond our experiences and bond with one another... She has taught us the PRIVILEGE of sharing with one another with enormous respect and kindness."
"Thank you for your guidance and support throughout my cancer journey. I appreciate so much that your organization exists."
"Wednesday is still my "doctor day", but it will be less so at the end of February when my hercepton treatments end."
Contact
Please complete the form below if you are interested in Ellen’s Well support services and programs and a member of our team will follow up with next steps.
Every Gift Counts in the Fight Against Breast Cancer
Over 6,800 life-saving screenings and procedures were performed in 2023. Your support provides the state-of-the-art technology for early detection and treatment of breast cancer.