In January, Seton Healthcare Family is offering a free workshop series for patients with any stage of cancer and their caregivers.

Classes are hosted beginning Jan. 7 through Jan. 28 at Seton Medical Center Austin, 1201 W. 38th St. Morning classes are held from 10:15–11:30 a.m., and evening classes take place from 6:15–7:30 p.m. in the Seton Breast Care Center multipurpose room.

Lorie Thibodeaux, program manager at Seton's Breast Care Center, said Humancare Power to Heal classes create an opportunity for people to connect with others undergoing similar experiences with cancer.

The classes also teach attendees how to adjust their lives with cancer, said Lee Ann Rathbun, clinical pastoral education supervisor at Seton HealthCare Family.

"Sometimes it can feel like the cancer experience becomes everything," Rathbun said. "They are overwhelmed or [feels like] it hijacks the rest of their life. I hope that we help them restore a sense of their whole life. I hope they can regain some sense of their health and wellness even as they journey with cancer.'"

Participants are encouraged to attend as many of the classes as possible because each class builds upon the next, Thibodeaux said.

Individual classes and workshops focus on various topics and participants are asked to register in advance by calling 512-324-1025.

Class schedule:

Jan. 7—The "Recognizing the New Normal" workshop includes discussion about how to make life more manageable when dealing with cancer.

Jan. 14–"Coping with Courage Emotionally and Spiritually" provides information about how to cope with cancer and leading a full life.

Jan. 21—The "Utilizing Contemplative Practices for Wellbeing" workshop teaches cancer patients and their caregivers how to cultivate spiritual and contemplative practices to find peace.

Jan. 28—Seton staff discuss how to maintain a holistic approach to wellness at the "Living Well: Body, Mind and Soul" class.

For more information, visit Seton's website.