Conversations about cancer can be difficult for anyone, and the way people approach them is often shaped by a mix of personal, cultural, and family influences. For some, talking openly about cancer can feel challenging, even to the point of avoiding discussions about screenings, diagnoses, or treatments.
In many communities, cultural values impact how sensitive topics like cancer are addressed. For instance, in South Asian communities—the largest visible minority group in Calgary—deeply rooted values around family unity and privacy can sometimes make it harder to talk openly about cancer or seek outside support.
Unfortunately, these challenges can result in delayed diagnoses, barriers to treatment, and poorer outcomes. Additionally, there are limited cancer resources and programs designed to address the specific needs of South Asians in Calgary, leaving many to navigate cancer care alone and without adequate culturally informed support.
Expanding cancer care for South Asians in Calgary
Wellspring Alberta’s vision is that no one should face cancer alone. This guiding principle is at the core of our work, which is why Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is a central focus within our organization. Cancer care and support are not one-size-fits-all, and different cultural groups have unique needs that must be addressed to provide the most effective support. Over the past few years, Wellspring has been working to create a more inclusive and representative approach.
“Our goal is to make Wellspring a safe and accessible resource available to all Albertans. Reaching and serving some populations, including South Asian individuals, is best achieved by becoming informed about their cultural beliefs and values, and tailoring an approach that begins with deliberate outreach and expanded services,” said Niki Fehr, Wellspring’s program director.
Generous funding from the Calgary Foundation and donors Jim and Vicki Wilson created an opportunity for Wellspring Alberta to improve cancer care for the city’s South Asian communities.
“A few years ago we were introduced to Wellspring by our close friend who spoke encouragingly of the potential to extend the support of the Wellspring ethos by engaging communities not well represented in the current membership. We were welcomed by Wellspring to embrace this vision and we are pleased, along with the Calgary Foundation, to provide support for this initiative.” – Jim and Vicki Wilson
In fall 2024, after extensive research into the community’s needs and barriers to support, this funding helped launch the South Asian Outreach Project. To guide this project, Wellspring welcomed Calgary-based South Asian professional Tana Dhruva to build connections in South Asian communities, connecting those living with cancer to helpful supports. Eventually, she’ll work to develop and launch programs tailored to their unique needs.
“I’m excited to help create programs for this community,” said Tana. “As someone with South Asian roots and experience in cancer care, I understand the stigma around cancer and the challenges it creates. That’s why we are committed to fostering open conversations and creating tailored support, so no one has to face cancer alone.”
With input and guidance from Wellspring’s Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Roundtable, the Wellspring team has created a plan for this initiative, beginning with research, outreach and engagement with partner organizations for network opportunities and translation services. Next, Wellspring will hold focus groups, surveys, and interviews to better understand the community’s needs. If all goes as planned, new cancer support programs tailored towards members of South Asian communities could launch as early as fall 2025.
“By building an inclusive team, training our staff and volunteers, gathering feedback and partnering with others, we aim to create community programs that truly reflect South Asian cultural values and beliefs. We’ll focus on making these programs feel accessible, welcoming, and supportive,” said Tana.
Wellspring is seeking community feedback
There are many ways for members of South Asian communities in Calgary to get involved with this project and help shape programs designed specifically for those living with cancer. Wellspring is inviting South Asians affected by cancer, including patients and caregivers, to share their input through surveys, focus groups, or one-on-one conversations.
Additionally, volunteers are welcome to join the project, and feedback from health care professionals, community organizations, and key individuals from South Asian communities is highly valued. Together, we can create meaningful support programs tailored to the unique needs of this community.
Those who want to learn more about the project can reach out to Tana Dhruva at tanad@wellspringalberta.ca. Resources for members of South Asian communities living with cancer can be found on our website.
