caregiver education SERIES - Returning Fall 2026

We’re currently reviewing this program so it can serve you better in the years ahead. An updated version will launch in fall 2026. Until then, you can watch the class videos using the button below.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Join us in our new caregiver education series. Together with other caregivers, you’ll gain tips and support through a series of recorded online videos and support-group chats.

It’s easy to participate (and free)! Just click the “register now” button.  This program is currently offered twice a year, and space is limited.  However, you may join mid-program, or choose to attend some classes but not all.

These classes will be held virtually, allowing you to participate from the comfort of your own home via Zoom.

Welcome to H&NConnect, a supportive community for caregivers of individuals with head and neck cancer. We understand the unique challenges you face and are here to provide you with the tools, resources, and emotional support you need.

 What H&N Connect Offers:

  • 6 caregiver education & support sessions over a 12-week period: Connect with fellow caregivers, share experiences, and learn from experts.
  • Weekly Sessions: Explore topics like emotional health, practical caregiving tips, communication strategies, and more. Odd weeks of the program will feature pre-recorded videos (about 60 minutes in length) on topics important to you, which you can view at your own pace. Then, on even weeks, we’ll meet as a group online with a medical expert for a supportive and interactive discussion on the session topic.
  • Expert Guest Speakers: Hear from oncologists, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, and caregivers like you.
  • Interactive Activities: Participate in discussions, role-playing exercises, and mindfulness practices.

Session 1: Introductions & Understanding Head and Neck Cancer
Discover the basics, including types of head and neck cancer, diagnosis, and treatment options. Connect with others: share your experiences and concerns with fellow caregivers.

Session 2: Emotional & Mental Health Support
Manage stress and anxiety by learning coping strategies and self-care techniques. Connect with others, share your feelings (or just listen), and find support from peers.

Session 3: Practical Caregiving Strategies
Master caregiving skills by discovering tips for managing pain, fatigue, and other common challenges. Share experiences and exchange practical advice and solutions with other caregivers.

Session 4: Oral Care & Oral Health
Get help with rehabilitation by learning techniques to help with swallowing difficulties, dry mouth, and mucositis. We’ll also cover maintaining good nutrition and discover healthy meal ideas and strategies for managing dietary needs.

Session 5: Legal, Financial, & Navigational Support
with our partners at Triage Cancer
Navigate the healthcare system, understand insurance coverage, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits. Manage legal and financial matters and learn about estate planning, advance directives, and financial assistance programs.

Session 6: Swallowing & Nutrition
Maximize comfort during treatment by discovering strategies for soothing oral discomfort and managing side effects. Maintain oral health for long-term well-being and learn preventative measures and long-term care tips.

Meet our Ambassador caregivers​

Caregiver Allison Breininger

Creator of The Negative Space, Writer, Speaker, Caregiver Advocate | Caregiver to Husband Sean: a Fanconi Anemia, Tongue, Bladder, and Throat Cancer Survivor | St Paul, MN

Breininger_Allison_headshot

Caregiver Sue Lim

Oncology Nurse and Caregiver to husband Carl | lymphoepithelial-like carcinoma of the parotid gland | Seattle, WA

Sue Lim

Caregiver Julie Bockoff

Caregiver for her best friend | Stage IV Tonsil Cancer Patient | Detroit, MI

This is a picture of Julie Bockoff.

Caregiver Kristi Mason

Mother, wife, and caregiver to husband | Caregiver for Stage III Throat Cancer Patient | Derry, NH

Mason-Kristi-husband

FAQs for h&N Connect

What is the time commitment to participate?

Over 12 weeks, you’ll dive into topics that matter to caregivers — from emotional well-being to communication tips and hands-on caregiving advice.

  • On odd weeks: Watch expert-led videos on the current session topic.  Videos are approximately 30 minutes long and can be viewed online at any time before the next group class.

  • On even weeks: Join our friendly, online group discussions to share experiences, ask questions, and find support.  These sessions are slated for one hour during the day.  If you need to miss one session, don’t worry, we understand!

Basically, between 30 minutes to one hour each week!

 

Classes will be comprised of 12-25 caregivers.  Space is limited so register ASAP.  

To maintain a small class size and create an environment that fosters trust and sharing, we are limiting the number of participants to 25 per series.

The spots will be awarded according to the order of registration. Any registrations that come in after the first 25 will be added to our wait list and will be offered the first chance to register for the next class.

Classes are offered at various times throughout the year.  The best way to keep up to date with the latest information about H&N Connect is to sign up for our newsletter & emails.

These classes are free to attend!

Head & Neck Cancer Alliance

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