Beyond Cancer Community Connection
Knowledge, Connection and Movement
This new, free series aims to empower and educate those navigating the challenges of a cancer journey on a variety of topics, offering strategies, insights and practical knowledge.
Upcoming Fall Offerings
Mindful Mosaics for Cancer Surviorship
Date: Wednesday, Oct. 14
Time: 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Instructor: Stephanie Jackson (bio below)
Where: Kalapuya Community Room
Who: Workshop designed for those on their cancer or survivorship journey.
Description: Come connect and create something beautiful with one another. This stained-glass mosaic workshop will focus on using therapeutic art as a tool for building emotional regulation and mindfulness as we navigate cancer. It will be facilitated by Stephanie Jackson, a mosaic artist and cancer survivor, and Karin Stark, a licensed clinical social worker. All materials are included in this workshop.
The Importance of Plant-Based Diets for Cancer
Date: Sunday, Nov. 15
Time: 1 to 2 p.m.
Instructor: Dr. Charlie Ross
Where: Kalapuya Community Room
Who: Workshop designed for those on their cancer or survivorship journey.
Description: This free presentation is part of the Beyond Cancer Speaker Series, which aims to empower and educate those navigating the challenges of a cancer journey. Dr. Charlie Ross of Eugene Plant Based Physicians will discuss the benefits of plant-based diets for cancer survivors and share practical strategies for incorporating more health-supportive foods into everyday life. Participants will gain helpful insights and realistic tools to support their health and well-being beyond cancer.
Instructor Bios
Meet Stephanie
Stephanie Jackson is a cancer survivor and mosaic artist who believes deeply in the healing power of art, especially when it is created alongside others in community. Her own therapeutic art journey began after her father passed away from cancer in 2014. Through creating art, she found a meaningful way to process emotions that words could not always express—and she wanted to share that experience with others.
Stephanie began teaching art to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds—including children, youth, adults, seniors, and people with disabilities. She served as an art instructor at OSLP Arts and Culture Program (now Radiant Arts) for 11 years. She also participates in community art events and exhibitions through the City of Eugene and Springfield. In 2019, Carolyn Rexius, founder and former executive director of CAFA, invited Stephanie to partner with licensed therapists to develop a therapeutic art program for CAFA clients.
In 2023, Stephanie received her own cancer diagnosis and experienced firsthand its emotional impact. As she developed tools to support her mental health, she recognized that CAFA’s resources could provide meaningful support to a population she now closely identified with —cancer survivors. In 2024, Stephanie approached CAFA’s board with the idea of creating a program focused on the emotional needs of people navigating cancer and received overwhelming support. In April 2025, the Emotional Support Program for Cancer launched where Stephanie now serves as the program director. Among the support groups offered, therapeutic art groups and workshops continue to provide a powerful opportunity for people affected by cancer to connect, create, and find meaningful support throughout their cancer journeys.
Meet Charlie
Bio coming soon!
