Pathways - Life After Cancer located in Asheville, NC, was founded 28 years ago by Dr. Lewis Rathbun. Our mission is to help people with cancer improve the quality of their lives by providing support; counseling, education, and other resources that promote healing and may ultimately change the course of their disease.

The experience of illness...
A diagnosis of cancer can create feelings of anxiety, confusion, and despair in both individuals and the loved ones. Current research demonstrates that as many as 50% of people living with cancer experience distress severe enough to warrant a diagnosis of an anxiety disorder (e.g., symptoms of excessive worry and irritability) or depressive disorder (e.g., symptoms of hopelessness and loss of pleasure). In addition, the physical and emotional effects of cancer permeate relationships within the family and the community, leading the patient to feel isolated. People have said, "A large gap has opened up between me and the world of the well."  

The devastating experience of cancer is felt not only by the patient; but also by her or his partner, children, friends, and caregivers. Families may experience disruption in daily routines, financial stability, emotional well being, and personal life goals.  

The relationship between physical and emotional health is amply demonstrated by current medical and psychological research. Negative emotional states (such as depression) have the physiological effect of decreasing the ability of the immune system to fight off and/or recover from cancer. For example, caregivers have an increased risk of developing their own serious illness as a result of the stress they experience. As a result of this body-mind connection, it is important for individuals facing cancer to consider both physical and emotional treatment.

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