Part 1/2

This program is being offered on Zoom. In order to participate, register by clicking the RSVP button above or by emailing programs@smithcenter.org.

with Andrea Levine

People who have had a cancer diagnosis sometimes describe feeling as if their cancer experiences have profoundly shaped, reconfigured, and/or disrupted their prior sense of identity. Some say that other people in their lives misunderstand the lasting impact of cancer on identity, or think that once treatment is complete, the effect of cancer on the patient’s identity must be “over,” too. Some find that the prevailing narratives of the “good” cancer experience that we see in popular culture can leave little space for the multiplicity and mixed feelings that the cancer experience can bring.

What is your cancer narrative? Have you had a chance to process the elements that most profoundly shaped your experience and identity during and after your cancer treatment?

This two-part workshop offers a chance to come together with other people impacted by cancer to reflect and share about the elements that shaped your own specific cancer experience, to consider some models of identity and how these relate to the cancer experience, and to craft the beginning of your own cancer narrative. This workshop is open to anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer at any time and is at any point in their journey.

Part 1: April 28

Part 2: May 5

Suggested Donation: $20

This program is offered for free or at a low cost on a pay-as-you-can basis. Contributions are not required to attend, ensuring accessibility for everyone. If you’re able to donate, we deeply appreciate your support—every contribution directly funds our cancer support programs.

About Andrea Levine

Andrea Levine expects to receive her MSW in May and has been a social work intern at Smith Center for the 2024-25 academic year. Andrea taught English and writing at George Washington University for many years and has a PhD in English with an emphasis on contemporary multi-ethnic fiction. She is excited to bring her interest in writing and narrative to her work with the amazing Smith Center community.