Ljósið continuously strives to be flexible and meet the needs of those that use its services. This flexibility is demonstrated in the educational courses available. In addition, there are different kinds of crafts and various classes for physical rehabilitation, as well as an extensive online service. A growing number of immigrants to Iceland have been coming to Ljósið but are unable to benefit fully from Ljósið’s services due to the vast majority being in Icelandic. In order to make room for this group, we trialled a pilot course in English for two weeks in June. Participants liked this addition, so we expanded to a full four-week course in September. The course addressed various aspects of the diagnosis process, treatment, and aftermath. An occupational therapist talked about change, rehabilitation, routines, coping, and peers. A psychologist discussed communication and relaxation. A life coach gave a lecture on goals and direction. The participants were very pleased with this course as well. Because of the course’s success, there will be two four-week courses running in Spring 2023.

            It also became obvious that the group needed a space to meet and continue supporting each other. Ljósið emphasizes peer groups because giving space for people with similar experiences to come together is vitally important. Meeting peers that have insight into the feelings, emotions, and physical symptoms associated with a cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment can help with coming to terms with their new reality. This can be even more challenging if you are in a place that you call home but did not grow up in. You may, for example, not have an appetite but crave an ice cream you always ate when you were sick as a child. Technology can help you keep in touch with everyone back home, but virtual hugs don’t feel the same as real ones, and a peer group of people in similar situations understand this. The peer group can also act as a reprieve from constant discussion about cancer, while still being around people that understand the complexity of your experience.

            In addition to meeting new people, the goal is to do something fun together. The group provides a way to challenge comfort zones by trying new things and being around people. Participants have the opportunity to support and be supported by others, share experiences, get advice from professionals and members of the group, and learn something new.

            The peer group will meet the first Thursday of every month at 12 o’clock and if you want to join, please contact Ljósið.