To provide women and their families with a safe, supportive space where they may begin their own individual healing process through and beyond cancer.
To provide a balanced and holistic environment emphasizing the importance of the whole person as integration of body, mind and spirit. Encouraging a state of equilibrium amongst these parts of our being as well as those of the family.
photo by Julia Brigidi
Before the fruit....
As with everything in life, The Healing Co-Op had a beginning. For several years before the actual birth of our center, we existed in a more simple and abstract form. Our initial support group was loving and enthusiastic, which ultimately enable us to reach out beyond ourselves to others in need. It was not long before the vision of this center began to evolve and live in my heart as well as in my breath, and then in the hearts and breath of others. It quickly became clear to us that there are women and families in need of support while making the healing journey into life, and those needing our support while making the healing journey into death. The inevitable byproduct of The Healing Co-Op is its proximity to both sides of life's fragile and beautiful shoreline. It is my personal prayer that we, The Healing Co-Op, continue to provide the caring support needed to women and their families as they make their journey towards either shore with love, tranquility and gratitude. Personally having had made that journey through cancer, combined with the grace of God, I have learned that the experience, as devastating as it may be, can help us in discovering who we are and, in the process, remind us of the wonderful contributions we can make in the lives of others, and in the world as a whole.
Blessings,
Linda Phelan, Founder
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
~Margaret Mead
Founder, Linda Phelan photo by: Berge
The Healing Co-Op is Rhode Islands first and only free 501 (c) 3 nonprofit center dedicated to supporting and celebrating the lives of women with cancer & their families. Founded in 1996 by Linda Phelan Schroeder, then a 6-year survivor, the center has continued to grow. Serving all of Rhode Island and nearby Massachusetts, the Co-Op serves an average of 2,000 women annually.
Neither medically or academically affiliated, the Co-Op relies 100% on private donations from the community and fundraising. All donations are appreciated and welcome. Donations can be made by designating through the United Way, by visiting: www.justgive.org, Visa & Master Card or simply by check and mailed to us at: The Healing Co-Op 272 Mitchell's Lane Middletown, RI 02842. We can be reached by phone: 401.845.6777 fax 401.845.9660 or email HealCoOp@aol.com. We thank you for your support.
Specialized Support Groups . Tending the Inner Life Day Retreats . Renewal Retreats . Lending Library . Home of Veriditas, an 80 foor arborous walking labyrinth . Telephone Outreach . Healing Garden . Restorative Yoga and Masage Therapy
The Healing Co-Operative Since 1996 www.thehealingcoop.org
