portland women writers

The intention of the writing circle is to enhance the physical, psychological, social and spiritual well-being of those faced with the challenges of cancer, cancer treatment and resuming life after treatment. Writing with a group of peers in a safe, respectful environment not only creates community and connection, but can also reduce stress and anxiety and bolster confidence and resiliency. These workshops are based upon the methodology of the Amherst Writers and Artists Method, which uses prompts as doorways into the writing. Participants may choose to write about their experience with cancer or anything else that is presenting itself since all of the stories we carry, fact or fiction, can be sources of healing and transformation. These circles provide the opportunity to connect more deeply with ourselves through our own writing as well as through the stories we hear in the circle. No writing experience is necessary.

"This group has saved my life. When I first came to the group, I was raw from hearing a dire diagnosis, chemo scarred and exhausted. Tuesday mornings from 10 - 12 gave me somewhere to go. A reason to get up in the morning. A reason to get dressed. A reason to leave the house. A place of connection. A place of wisdom. A place of welcome. A place of peace. Writing with these women each week is a lifeline to me, and certainly to many of us. I hope our group's founders and funders know what a profound difference this circle has made and continues to make in my life. I won't get the gift of a cure in my lifetime, but I receive the healing gifts of story and of being heard every week. It's a good dose. It's the best dose. And I attribute a degree of my vitality these days to the healing power of the stories we weave. Thank you for the gracious way you continue to show up for us and build a safe place in the hospital and within the week that I can count on when so much else in my life is fragile and uncertain."

~ OHSU Cancer Workshop Participant