Writing Through Cancer Writing Circles are for individuals living the cancer journey. These writing circles are modeled after the Amherst Writers & Artists Method—a philosophy that believes everyone is a writer. Writing is known to be healing on many levels. During sessions, participants write together from writing prompts, which inspire stories from their lives. Writers are gently invited to read their “fresh” writing, and each writer receives positive feedback from the group.
Living with cancer is a lonely journey. Only those who have been or are on that same journey truly understand the emotions, fears and challenges we face each day. I was hoping to gain some insight into how others coped with their diagnosis. I not only gained that, but also came to understand more fully my own reactions to my personal cancer story. This was a valuable experience for me. I don’t feel quite as alone as I did.—A Past Participant
At the Ames Writers Collective we currently partner with two cancer centers to offer these writing circles:
Writing Circle Mondays
Sponsored by John Stoddard Cancer Center as part of the Charlie Cutler Healing and Wellness Program, Writing Circle Mondays are 8-week sessions held virtually from 5:30 to 7:30 PM CT. To register, email [email protected] or call (515) 241-8505.
Writing Circle Wednesdays
In Partnership with the Bliss Cancer Resource Center
Writing Circle Wednesdays are ongoing with scheduled breaks in between sessions. These sessions meet on Zoom from 2 to 4 or from 3 to 5 PM CT. Anyone interested may join at any time. Click here to register for a Zoom link.
These sessions are led by Ana McCracken, founder of the Ames Writers Collective. Registration is free and required. Sessions are limited to 10 participants. Contact us for questions and to register. Visit our calendar page for listed current sessions.
