Cancer support center expands Templeton services
New groups support young adults, men, survivors, and colorectal patients
– Cancer Support Community CA-Central Coast announced the expansion of its Templeton center and the launch of four new specialized cancer support groups for residents of SLO County.
According to the organization, the expanded center will allow it to increase programming and provide additional support, education, and healthy lifestyle services for individuals and families impacted by cancer at no cost.
The new programs include a Young Adult Cancer Support Group, a Colorectal Cancer Networking Group, a Men’s Cancer Networking Group, and a Life Beyond Cancer Group.
“These new programs fill critical gaps in support services available on the Central Coast,” said Candice Galli. “Cancer affects every part of a person’s life, and different populations face very different emotional and practical challenges. We are proud to create spaces where people can connect with others who truly understand what they’re going through.”
The Young Adult Cancer Support Group was created to address challenges faced by younger adults diagnosed with cancer. Galli said she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer seven years ago at age 35.
“When you’re diagnosed young, it can feel incredibly isolating,” Galli said. “Many young adults don’t see themselves reflected in traditional support settings. Having a community of peers who understand the emotional, physical, and life-stage challenges of cancer can make an enormous difference.”
The organization also launched what it described as the county’s only Colorectal Cancer Networking Group. The program will provide education and emotional support related to colorectal cancer diagnoses.
The group will be led by Kristin McMaster, a licensed clinical social worker with more than 20 years of oncology social work experience. According to the organization, McMaster previously worked for more than three years in a colorectal clinic at UC Irvine.
“Colorectal cancer patients often feel isolated because many aspects of the diagnosis can feel deeply personal or stigmatized,” McMaster said. “Creating a safe and supportive environment where people can openly discuss these challenges is incredibly important for emotional well-being and quality of life.”
The Men’s Cancer Support Group was developed to address how men experience and process cancer diagnoses, according to the organization.
“Men are often conditioned to stay strong and avoid talking about fear or vulnerability,” Galli said. “This group gives men a place to speak honestly and support one another through the realities of cancer.”
The organization also launched a survivorship support program called Life Beyond Cancer, which focuses on helping individuals adjust after treatment.
“Many survivors are surprised to find that life after treatment can be emotionally complex,” McMaster said. “Once treatment ends, people often lose the structure and support they relied on during active care. Survivorship support helps people process what they’ve been through and move forward with confidence and connection.”
In addition to the new groups, the organization provides professionally led support groups, educational workshops, nutrition programs, exercise classes, stress reduction sessions, and social opportunities for cancer patients, caregivers, and loved ones.
“Our programs exist because of the generosity of this community,” Galli said. “Every donation and every fundraiser directly support local families facing cancer. They help us prove community is stronger than cancer.”
The organization plans to host a future open house at the expanded Templeton center for community members, healthcare partners, and supporters.
More information is available at www.cscslo.org or by calling (805) 238-4411.
