MyMichigan Health mindfulness cancer program to serve Midland, Alma, Alpena patients

ALPENA — MyMichigan Health is offering a program in Midland, Alma and Alpena counties that focuses on the use of mindfulness for current or post-cancer patients, survivors and their caregivers.

The program aims to center mindfulness as a way to help manage emotions, reduce stress and cope with the physical challenges that come with a diagnosis and treatment.

Travis Steinka, a MyMichigan Medical Center Midland occupational therapist, said the approach is meant to alleviate stress and provide education on emotional regulation.

“Mindfulness techniques can create better health outcomes by helping patients focus on the present moment and steering them away from the worry of the unknowns that cancer may bring,” Steinka said.

Steinka is a certified mindfulness and meditation teacher who will lead the mindfulness program and provide tools to help with anxiety, reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

The mindfulness program will be held in person on the following dates:

• Tuesday, Sept. 3, Pardee Cancer Wellness Center Conference Rooms, 4201 Campus Ridge Drive in Midland
• Tuesday, Sept. 10, MyMichigan Medical Center Alma, Room 1162 A/B, 300 E. Warwick Drive in Alma
• Tuesday, Sept. 17, MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena, Auditorium, 1501 W. Chisholm St. in Alpena

Registration is required for this free program at any of the three locations.

Those interested in registering may visit www.mymichigan.org/mindfulness or call MyMichigan Health Line at 989-837-9090.