Sylvester Tea Party Builds Community for Patients, Survivors and Caregivers, One Cup at a Time
The inaugural tea party at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center created a welcoming space for connection, mindfulness and support, offering patients, survivors and caregivers practical tools for wellness and community.
On a beautiful Miami morning, elegant teacups were set out atop colorful tablecloths next to delicious snacks and pastries. A scene that could have been a tea party in a royal garden was actually the first-ever Tea Party at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of UHealth — University of Miami Health System and the region’s only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center.
The inaugural gathering, a part of Sylvester’s Restoring Confidence series, created a welcoming space for attendees to connect, share experiences and explore the ways tea can bring comfort and community.
“Today is about creating a community of support for patients and their families,” said Tangela Hillery, program manager at Sylvester. “It’s the advice, stories and answers they receive over tea that make the difference.”
A Restorative Experience Rooted in Tea and Wellness
The tea party was made possible through the generous support of the Holding Hands Foundation, whose mission is centered on supporting and uplifting patients as they navigate some of life’s most difficult journeys.
Their generosity allowed participants to experience a beautiful event and a moment of peace, connection and encouragement.
“The tea party event for cancer survivors, patients and caregivers was truly touching and meaningful,” said Chandramukhi Ganju, founder of the Holding Hands Foundation. “As part of the mission of Holding Hands Foundation, one of our deepest commitments is to reach out to those affected by cancer, listen to their journeys and share their stories with compassion and dignity.”
During the event, attendees learned about different types of teas and the health benefits they offer. From supporting digestion to promoting relaxation, studies have shown that tea has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of chronic disease.
Hillery shared insights into how even the process of brewing and enjoying tea can have a calming effect on both mind and body.
“It’s important that we are always thinking of not only patients but also survivors who need these services and programs,” said Gisele Armour, chair of the Women’s Cancer Association (WCA) Silver Lady Fund, which raises money for supportive care at Sylvester throughout the year.
Guests enjoyed a selection of teas, along with snacks and baked goods, creating an inviting atmosphere that encouraged conversation and connection.
Supporting Cancer Survivorship Beyond Treatment
In addition to learning about tea, participants took part in guided meditative exercises designed to promote mindfulness and relaxation. These moments provided attendees with practical tools to incorporate into their daily routines as they navigate survivorship and caregiving journeys.
“The connectivity that these programs bring is vital for patients and survivors,” said Deborah Hart, a former member of the WCA and breast cancer survivor. “This was a good introduction to more programs that we can be a part of. That exposure is incredibly important.”
The event also featured lighthearted activities that brought energy and joy to the afternoon, including rounds of bingo and a raffle.
“Our mission at Sylvester is to improve the lives of cancer survivors and their families,” said Frank Penedo, Ph.D., director of the Sylvester Cancer Survivorship and Supportive Care Institute and associate director for population sciences at Sylvester. “Many survivors face chronic side effects and challenges that compromise their emotional well-being. Events like these provide a restorative and relaxing opportunity that helps ameliorate the burden of cancer treatment and survivorship.”
Building on the success of the inaugural tea party, Sylvester staff shared plans to launch an ongoing tea support group. Individuals who sign up will be invited to participate in monthly meetings that offer continued opportunities for connection, conversation and support in a welcoming environment centered around tea and wellness.
More from Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Dr. Patricia Moreno shares how survivorship care and research are improving quality of life for people with cancer.
Sylvester’s Emotional Wellness Clinic uses DBT and holistic care to support cancer survivors’ mental health, improving long-term well-being.
AI-driven models using patient-reported outcomes and clinical data help predict risk in cancer survivors, enabling more personalized care.
University of Miami researchers launch a study testing stress management to reduce aging and improve outcomes in breast cancer survivors.
Tags: cancer and exercise, cancer survivorship, Cancer Survivorship Program, Cancer Survivorship Symposium, Dr. Frank Penedo, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Sylvester Survivorship and Supportive Care Institute