Support Programs
Here, you'll discover details about various support groups. At DWR, our members support one another. Click on videos or images to enlarge them for a full view.
Hope's Basket
If you are a woman with cancer and you are interested in receiving a Hope Basket, please contact Sally Skyer at scsnbu@rit.edu. Update as of November 03, 2025 - You may also donate through our donation page: https://www.deafwomenrochester.org/donate. Thank you for supporting cancer fighters and survivors.
Sally was featured in the Autumn 2025 edition of Voices of the Ribbon magazine (page 11):
“Supporting the Deaf Community Through Cancer Treatment and Beyond”
https://bccr.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/autumn-2025-newsletter-web.pdf
Watch the video recording of the panel discussion on Women and Cancer below. If you or someone else want to talk to one of the panelists or if you have any questions, please contact Sally Skyer at scsnbu@rit.edu.
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Support Groups
Depending on your needs, you may decide to join one or more of three types of support groups:
Grief
Caregivers
Cancer
Just remember that whatever support group you choose, it is not a substitute for medical care.
A support group is a safe place where it gives you an open, and confidential meeting to share your emotions and experiences with others who have recently experienced the same challenges or circumstances. A support group gives you opportunities to get things off your chest and you may gain valuable insight about how others deal with similar situations. Resources like self-care, coping skills, tips, and ideas will be provided by you and your group.
Facilitated by: Patti Canne, MSW
Further details about in-person location or zoom, dates and
times will be shared with you if you decide to participate.
If you are interested to join or have concerns or questions, please contact Patti Canne at 585-286-4019 (VP) or email: patricia_canne@urmc.rochester.edu.
Open to caregivers, hearing or deaf family members, CODAs, & anyone joining in on the journey of caring for a loved one. An ASL Interpreter will be provided if needed.
A safe place to share, cry, laugh, and learn. ~ You will learn that you are not alone ~
ASL Support Group for Deaf/ Hard of Hearing Suicide Survivors
Are you interested in attending an ASL support group for D/HH Suicide Survivors?
Contact Mary Karol Matchett at mkmatchett@gmail.com.