BFMC Offers Writing Workshop for Those Touched by Cancer

GREENFIELD — Baystate Franklin Medical Center’s (BFMC) Oncology Department will offer a free writing workshop, “Spirit of the Written Word,” for Western Mass. residents touched by cancer.

The 10-week workshop will take place on Thursdays, March 17 to May 26 (no class on April 21) from 6 to 8 p.m. at Artspace, 15 Mill St., Greenfield. Attendees are encouraged to promote their own healing and experience the therapeutic benefits of group writing. No writing experience is required, and all sharing is voluntary and confidential. Refreshments will be provided.

Facilitating the workshop is Pam Roberts, writer, artist, and certified yoga instructor, who is a breast-cancer survivor of more than 20 years. An ordained graduate of the IM School of Healing Arts in New York City, she has been leading writing workshops for people affected by cancer and loss for more than 11 years. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, Roberts found writing to be an important part of her healing process. She believes deeply in the transformative and healing power of writing within a safe and supportive workshop environment.

One of the participants in a past workshop commented, “I love this writing class! It helps me process difficult emotions and thoughts.” Another said, “it’s very therapeutic to write with others who understand my experiences/emotions around cancer.” A third participant said the group “is healing, loving, and kind. It helps me to order myself and take heart in living.”

The workshop is being sponsored by BFMC Oncology and is grant-funded by Baystate Franklin Medical Center’s Wheeling for Healing Bike/Walk/Run Event supporting cancer services at BFMC.

The workshop is limited to 12 participants, and registration is required. To register or for more information, contact Roberts at (413) 625-2402 or pamro@aol.com. Information is also available in the Oncology Department at Baystate Franklin Medical Center.