Look for these program highlights:
- After Cancer Moving Forward
- Facing the Challenge of Pancreatic Cancer
- Living with Breast Cancer: Education and Exercise
- Mini Med School
- Seminars for Survivors: Complementary Therapies
- Programs in Spanish
- Writing Your Way to Wellness
How to locate a class, group or service in this Calendar:
All classes, regardless of location, are listed under one of the following four headings:
- Seminars, Groups, &
Services of General Interest (listed by date)
- Complementary Approaches
(listed by date)
- Fitness and Nutrition (listed by date)
- Breast Cancer Classes
and Groups (listed by date)
- Programs for Children &
Teens (listed by date)
Check individual listings to find their locations. Check the Location Key for the exact address of each class.
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How to register for classes:
1. Unless otherwise specified, register for classes by calling 703-776-2841
2. Unless otherwise specified, support groups do not require registration. |
Do you have any bright ideas?
We are always looking for topics and areas of interest
to explore. If you have suggestions for future classes
and groups, please send an email to sabine.gnesdiloff@inova.com.
Thanks!
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Seminars
& Groups of General Interest - Listed by Date
For classes appreciating or requiring registration
call 703-776-2841. |
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Life with Cancer en Español.
Próximamente
1. Grupo de apoyo para Mujeres con diagnóstico de cáncer (cualquier cáncer).
2. Grupo de apoyo para Mujeres con diagnóstico de cáncer de seno.
3. Grupo de apoyo para Mujeres y Hombres con diagnóstico de cáncer (cualquier cáncer).
4. Grupo de apoyo para Familias hispanas que han perdido un ser querido por diagnóstico de cáncer.
En estos grupos de apoyo usted podrá conversar sobre sus inquietudes y miedos, compartir experiencias y aprender de otros en un ambiente de confianza y profesionalismo.
Tendremos invitados especiales, actividades complementarias y varias sorpresas más.
Para más información, por favor contactar a Paulina Escobar, Coordinadora de servicios en español de Life with Cancer al 703-698-2529, (paulina.escobar@inova.org).
BMT/Stem Cell Support Group
Thursday, April 24
12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Fairfax-Northern VA Hem Onc. 8503 Arlington Blvd., Suite 320, Fairfax, VA
This monthly group meeting is open to past, current, and upcoming Bone Marrow Transplant and /or Stem Cell Transplant patients and caregivers. Facilitators: Drucilla Brethwaite, LCSW, and Donna Eichna, MSN, APRN-BC, OCN, In-Patient Stem Cell Transplant Coordinator. Please register. |

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class for online registration
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CanSurvive
Thursdays, April 3, 10, 17, and 24
Call weekly for exact time
Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library, 7584 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA
This patient-led support group is for people with cancer of any kind, their families, caregivers, friends and associates. For more information and for exact time contact us, 301-294-0566, linsil@usermail.com, or www.Can-Survive.net.
Family, Friends and Caregivers Meeting – Falls Church
Meet with other family members of both inpatients and outpatients to discuss and explore topics of concern including coping strategies, support, and information related to cancer and its treatment. Registration is not necessary.
Thursdays, April 3 and 17
3 – 4:30 p.m., IFH-CC
Facilitators: Drucilla Brethwaite, LCSW, and Eric Cohen, OCN®.
Wednesdays, April 9 and 23
7 - 8:30 p.m., IFHC
Facilitators: Drucilla Brethwaite, LCSW or Shara Sosa, LCSW.
Look Good…Feel Better
A professional cosmetologist will share skin, hair, and cosmetic tips to help you look your best before, during, or after treatment. Co-sponsored by the American Cancer Society, the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association Foundation, and the National Cosmetology Association.
Alexandria
Thursday, April 24
10 a.m.-noon
IAH-CCW
Fairfax
Tuesday, April 15
7 – 9 p.m.
FC-TBD
Register online or call 703-776-2841
“Luzca Bien…Siéntase Mejor” ++++ en Español+++++
Martes 29 de Abril
6 – 8.30 p.m.
Life with Cancer (Nueva direccion)
2700 Prosperity Ave suite #100
Fairfax, VA 22031
Loudoun
Thursday, April 3
6:45 - 9 p.m.
ILH-ROC
No online reg istration available. To register, call 703-858-8857 |
Check this box to select Alexandria for online registration
Check this box to select Fairfax for online registration
Check this box to select "Luzca Bien…Siéntase Mejor" for online registration
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Lymphedema Group
Wednesday, April 9
7 - 8:30 p.m.
FC-12
Meet with others to discuss physical and emotional concerns about hereditary or secondary lymphedema resulting from surgery, radiation, or trauma to the lymphatic system. Facilitators: Shara Sosa, LCSW, and a certified lymphedema therapist.
Mini Medical School, Spring Semester
Mondays, March 31, April 7, 14, 21, 28 and Tuesday, May 6
7 – 8:30 p.m.
FC-11
Anyone with an interest in the physiology of cancer and its treatments is invited to attend this weekly science education series.
3/31 - Cutting Edge: Advanced Endoscopy in Cancer Treatment, Ali Fazel, MD, Chair, Center for Advanced Endoscopy
4/7 - Clinical Trials: Everything you need to know, Rebecca Babb, RN, OCN®, Clinical Research Nurse, National Cancer Institute, NIH
4/14 - The Biology of Cancer: Kathy Wright, RN MSN, AOCNS, Inova Fairfax Cancer Center
4/21 - Colorectal Cancer Surgery, Paul Savoca, MD, Fairfax Colon and Rectal Surgery, PC
4/28 - Your Right to Decide: What Exactly ARE Heroic Measures?, Jane Wu, MD, Pulmonary and Critical Care Specialists of No. VA
5/ 6 - (Tuesday) The Circle of Life: How the Body Dies, Brian Murphy, MD, Medical Director, Acute Care Unit, Capital Hospice |

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Check this box to select March 31 for online registration
Check this box to select April 7 for online registration
Check this box to select April 14 for online registration
Check this box to select April 21for online registration
Check this box to select April 28 for online registration
Check this box to select May 6 for online registration
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Ostomy Support Group of Northern Virginia
Sunday, April 6
1:30 Meet & Eat
2 - 3:30 p.m. Speaker
PCC
Dr. Dan Albrandt, consulting pharmacist, will answer your questions. Park in BLUE garage. For more information, call 703-802-3457 or go to www.ostomysupportofnova.org.
Women's Support Group – Loudoun
Wednesday, April 2
6:30 - 8 p.m.
ILH-ROC
Support group open to any woman with a cancer diagnosis. Registration is not required.
You are Not Alone
Tuesdays, April 8 and 22
7 – 8:30 p.m.
IFOH, Conf. 3
Share and learn from others in a comfortable, relaxed and upbeat social atmosphere. Talk about day-to-day issues, learn helpful information and improve your sense of well-being. This group meets monthly on the second and forth Tuesdays. Everyone welcome; for more information please call Donna McAllister, LCSW, 703-391-4743.
Young Adult Group
Thursday, April 24
7:30 – 9 p.m.
FC-12
When you received treatment, was everyone around you the age of your parents or grandparents? You are not alone! Meet with others, ages 18 – "30-something”, to discuss issues such as intimacy, dating, body image, work and health insurance concerns, treatment side effects, fears of recurrence, and sustaining a normal lifestyle. Facilitators: Sage Bolte, LCSW, OSW-C and Eric Cohen, OCN®. Check out our blog for young adults at http://lwcyoungadults.blogspot.com/. Registration is not required.
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Good Grief Bereavement Group
Tuesdays, April 15 – June 3
7 – 9 p.m.
FC-12
If you experienced the death of a loved one from cancer within the last two years, we invite you to join with others who are also grieving to discuss and explore the process of grief, accepting and expressing one's emotions, dealing with children, family and friends, role and life style changes, coping with special dates, and community resources. Facilitators: Drucilla Brethwaite, LCSW, and Jenny Eckert, LCSW. Call 703-776-8798 to register. |

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Feel free to drop in on these groups. For
more information call 703-776-2841 unless another number
is specified |
| Gentle and Restorative Yoga - Loudoun
Thursdays, April 3, 10, 17 and 24
10 – 11:15 a.m. - for those no longer in treatment
11:30 a.m. – 12:45 - for those in treatment
ILH-ROC
Increase flexibility, strength and circulation, improve concentration and reduce stress. Wear comfortable clothing; bring a yoga mat and blanket. Registration is required; call Karen Archer at 703-858-8857 for information and registration.
Meditation and Guided Imagery – Loudoun
Tuesday, April 29
6:30 - 8 p.m.
ILH-ROC
Learn about and practice the art of meditation in this monthly support group for patients, family, and friends. Call Karen Archer at 703-858-8857 for information and registration.
Reiki Program – Loudoun
Thursday, April 24
6:45 – 8 p.m.
ILH-ROC
To help you relax and rebalance. Class size is limited; registration is required. Call Karen Archer at 703-858-8857 for information and registration.
Spirituality Quest - Fairfax
Tuesday, April 8
10:30 a.m. – noon
FC-13
This month’s topic is, “Hope, Strength and Courage” with returning guest speaker and author Sherri Waas Shunfenthal. Come as we reflect together and meditate about the connection among these three concepts. This support/education group meets monthly on the second Tuesday to explore the meaning of spirituality in our lives. Facilitated by Marsha Komandt, RN, OCN®. Registration is not required
Spiritual Support Group – Loudoun
Tuesday, April 15
6:30 - 8 p.m.
ILH-ROC
A support group to help cancer patients and their loved ones draw upon their own spiritual resources and help them cope with the cancer experience. Group meets on the third Tuesday monthly.
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Breast Cancer Classes and Groups
Feel free to drop in (unless otherwise specified) on these
groups or call 703-776-2841 for more information. |
Tour of Care: A Pre-op Class for Breast Surgery
Learn about pathology reports, what to expect during your hospital stay, how to manage drains, dressings and discomfort. Learn practical hints for bathing, sleeping, and moving comfortably and safely. Prostheses, undergarments for comfort, where to shop for them, and resources available to help you along the way will also be covered. A friend or relative is welcome to join you. Please register. Facilitator: Doreen Grzelak, RN, MSN, AOCN, Breast Care Navigator. *Same session offered weekly
April 3
2:30 – 4 p.m.
FC-12
April 10
2:30 – 4 p.m.
FC-12
April 17
2:30 – 4 p.m.
FC-12
April 24
2:30 – 4 p.m.
FC-12 |

Check this box to select April 3
for online registration
Check this box to select April 10
for online registration
Check this box to select April 17
for online registration
Check this box to select April 24
for online registration
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Breast Cancer Groups- Four Locations
Learn, discuss and gain support from others who understand the concerns and challenges you face. Registration is not necessary.
Alexandria
Tuesday, April 22
5:30 – 7 p.m.
IAH-CCW
Facilitators: Maureen Broderick, LCSW and Shara Sosa, LCSW
Fair Oaks Area
Wednesday, April 9
7 - 8 p.m.
SAL
Facilitator: Sage Bolte, LCSW.
Falls Church
Wednesdays, April 2 and 16
5:30 – 7 p.m.
IFHC
Facilitator: Corinne Cook, LCSW, and Doreen Grzelak, RN, MSN, AOCN
Loudoun
Monday, April 28
6:30 – 8 p.m.
ILH – ROC
Facilitator: Kim Callen, LCSW
Young Women with Breast Cancer - Alexandria
Tuesday, April 8
6 – 7:30 p.m.
IAH-CCW
Monthly discussion, information, and support group for pre-menopausal women diagnosed with breast cancer; discuss and share common concerns and solutions for dealing with breast cancer at a young age. Facilitators: Maureen Broderick, LCSW and Shara Sosa, LCSW. Registration is not necessary.
Living with Breast Cancer: Education and Exercise
Tuesdays, March 25 – April 29
7:30 – 8:45 p.m.
SAL, 2nd floor
This program is designed for those diagnosed with breast cancer within the past year and takes place immediately following the Healing Exercise: Gyrokinesis class at the same facility. Come to any or all sessions. Family and friends are welcome.
3/25 – Breast Cancer Development, Anatomy and Pathology, Susan Pierce, MD
4/1 - Systemic Therapy, Tamoxifen, Hormone Replacement, Aromatase Inhibitors, Ajay Dar, MD
4/8 - Managing Side Effects of Breast Cancer Treatment, Geronima Cortese-Jimenez, RN, OCN®
4/15 - Lymphedema Overview, Paula Levinson, PT, OCS, CLT
4/22 - Nutrition Issues, nutritionist TBA
4/29 - Dealing with the New Normal: Sexual and Survivorship Issues, Deborah Cook, RN and Saundra Weller, LCSW |

Check this box to select all classes
for online registration
Check this box to select March 25
for online registration
Check this box to select April 1
for online registration
Check this box to select April 8
for online registration
Check this box to select April 15
for online registration
Check this box to select April 22
for online registration
Check this box to select April 29
for online registration
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Metastatic Breast Cancer Support Groups – Falls Church
Meet in a closed support group setting with other women living with metastatic breast cancer to share life’s joys and sorrows. Facilitators: Sage Bolte, LCSW, and a psychiatrist. Registration is required. Please call Sage Bolte, LCSW, for registration and information at 703-698-2520.
Coalesce I – Falls Church
Fridays, April 4, 11, 18, and 25
Daytime, call for time
IFHC
Coalesce II – Fairfax
Tuesdays, April 1 and 15
Afternoon, call for time
FC-13
Metastatic Breast Cancer Counseling
Individual counseling for those dealing specifically with metastatic breast cancer, and/or their partners, is available. Please call Sage Bolte, LCSW, Breast Cancer Counselor, at 703-698-2520 for an appointment.
Diagnisis Specific Classes & Groups
Brain Tumor Group
Tuesday, April 1
Noon – 1:30 p.m.
FC-13
Adult patients and families are invited to share and learn ways to meet the challenges of living with primary malignant or benign brain tumors. Facilitators: Vera Hirshman RN, and Micheline Toussaint, LCSW. Registration is not required
Carcinoid Cancer Group
Saturday, April 19
10 a.m. - Noon
FC-11
Meet with other Carcinoid (neuroendocrine tumor) cancer patients and their adult loved ones to share experiences and learn from one another in this patient-led meeting held monthly on the third Saturday. For more information call 703-255-0519 or visit http://hometown.aol.com/cacsva. Registration is not required.
Colorectal Cancer Group
Thursday, April 24
6:30 – 8 p.m.
FC-13
Meet with others affected by colorectal cancer to address issues and concerns of patients/survivors, caregivers and friends. Facilitators: Drucilla Brethwaite, LCSW, and Suzanne Freeman, MSW. Please register. See Mini Med School calendar listing for program on Colorectal Cancer Surgery, with Paul Savoca, MD, Fairfax Colon and Rectal Surgery, PC, on April 21. Please register. Registration is not required
GYN Cancer Group
Wednesday, April 23
5:30 – 7 p.m.
FC-13
Women diagnosed with ovarian, cervical, and endometrial cancers are invited to drop in, share experiences, and learn from one another. Facilitators: Geronima Cortese-Jimenez, RN, MPH, OCN® and Micheline Toussaint, LCSW. Registration is not required
Head and Neck Cancers - Heads Up! – Falls Church
Wednesday, April 9
5:30 – 7 p.m.
IFHC
Current and former head and neck cancer patients and their significant others are welcome to learn from and share with one another. Facilitators: Corinne Cook, LCSW, and a Radiation Oncology team member. Registration is not required
Leukemia Group
Thursday, April 10
7 - 8:30 p.m.
FC-12
With approaching spring and its message of hope and new life, the topic for discussion will be “Hope”. What does the word mean to you? Light refreshments provided. This group meets on the second Thursday of the month and is co-sponsored with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Co-facilitated by Drucilla Brethwaite, LCSW and Marsha Komandt, RN, OCN®. Registration is not required
Lung Cancer Group
Wednesday, April 9
5:30 - 7 p.m.
FC-12
Learn about support and advocacy for people living with lung cancer from the Lung Cancer Alliance, a national non-profit organization committed to reversing decades of stigma and neglect by empowering those with or at risk for the disease, elevating awareness, and changing health policy. Join other lung cancer patients, family members and friends to discuss the challenges of living with lung cancer and its treatments. Facilitators: Paul Clark, LCSW, PhD, and Geronima Cortese-Jimenez, RN, MPH, OCN. Registration is not required
Multiple Myeloma Group
Tuesday, April 15
11:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
FC-11
Are you having difficulties sleeping, dealing with fatigue, as well as depression? All of these are common symptoms when living with cancer and its treatments. Join psychiatrist Susan Trachman, MD, as she provides an overview and responds to your questions on these important challenges. This monthly psycho-educational group is co-sponsored with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Facilitator: Sabine Gnesdiloff, LCSW, OSW-C. Light refreshments provided. Registration is not required
Facing the Challenge of Pancreatic Cancer
Saturday, April 12
12:30 p.m. Light Lunch
1 p.m. Speaker
FC-11
Oncology Clinical Coordinator Jeanne Lebish, MSN, CRNP, RNC, APRN, will offer an overview of the diagnosis, staging and treatments for pancreatic cancer, including the role of targeted therapies. This program is offered in collaboration with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) National Capital Area Affiliate, which is meeting prior to lunch. Speaker and lunch sponsored by Genentech BioOncology. Family and friends are welcome. Please register by Thursday, April 10. For more information on PanCAN, contact www.pancan.org. |

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Prostate Cancer Groups (US Too and Man to Man affiliates) – Three Locations!
Meet with other men and their families to share experiences and learn from one another in this monthly group meeting. We always welcome new people. Registration is not necessary.
Alexandria
Tuesday, April 15
6 – 8 p.m.
IAH-CCW
For more information contact Fred Gersh, 703-768-6001
Falls Church
Tuesday, April 8
7:30 - 9 p.m.
PCC
Dr. Simon Chung, Urologist, will discuss the Latest Advances in Da’Vinci Robotic Prostate Surgery.
Loudoun – Man to Man
Tuesday, April 8
6:30 - 8 p.m.
Loudoun County Senior Center, Cascades Market Place, Sterling, Virginia
For more information call 703-421-5283.
Thyroid Cancer Support Group
Saturday, April 12
10:30 a.m. - Noon
FC-12 or 13
Patients/survivors and their adult loved ones are invited to share information and support in this patient-led monthly meeting, co-sponsored with the Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association. For information call, 703-981-3831 or visit www.thyca.org. Registration is not required.
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Registration is necessary for all classes and groups. Please Call Jenny Eckert, Children’s Program Manager at 703-208-5623 for more information and to register. |
Art Expression for Teens
Wednesday, April 23
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
FC-13
Any teen who either has cancer or has a loved one with cancer is invited to express themselves through a hands-on activity and meet others who may share similar experiences related to cancer. Artistic ability is NOT necessary. Call Jenny Eckert, LCSW at 703-698-2536 for registration and information.
Good Grief Dinner for Teens 13 – 18 years old
Wednesday, April 16
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
FC-13
This monthly dinner offers an opportunity to meet with other teens who have lost a loved one to cancer, share thoughts and feelings, and learn about the grief process. Call Jenny Eckert, LCSW at 703-698-2536 for registration and information.
Teens’ Meet and Eat
Wednesday, April 2
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
FC-13
Eat, hang out and have a little fun with other teens, 13 – 18 years old, who have a family member with cancer. Meet with others who understand the concerns, changes and feelings you may be experiencing. An oncology nurse will be available this evening so come with your questions (remember any question is a good question). Call Jenny Eckert, LCSW at 703-698-2536 for registration and information.
Children’s Educational Support Program – Two Locations
Children ages 5-12 are invited to join us as we learn about cancer, through discussion and activities, and find ways to manage the emotions and changes that come when someone in the family has cancer. Call Jenny Eckert, LCSW at 703-698-2536 for registration and information.
Fairfax
Wednesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30
5:15 – 6:15 p.m.
FC, Kid’s Room
Loudoun
Tuesdays, April 1, 8 and 15
4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
ILH-ROC
Good Grief for Children 5 – 12 years old
Children who are 5-12 years old and have lost a loved one to cancer are invited to join us for discussion and art therapy, and to share thoughts and feelings as they work through the grief process. Call Jenny Eckert, LCSW at 703-698-2536 for registration and information.
Fairfax
Mondays, April 14, 21 and 28
5 - 6:15 p.m.
FC, Kid’s Room
Loudoun
Thursdays, please call Jenny for more information 703-698-2536
4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
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Please review all your selections above before pressing this button. |
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FC
Life with Cancer Family Center, 2700 Prosperity Avenue, Ste. 100, Fairfax, VA, 22031; Rooms 8, 11, 12 and 13, as indicated
IAH-CCW
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Cancer Center Waiting Room, 4320 Seminary Road, Alexandria - Get Directions
IFHC CC
Inova Fairfax Hospital Cancer Center,
3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church, VA 22042 - Get Directions
IFHC
Inova Fairfax Hospital for Children, Radiation Oncology Conference Room,
3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church, VA 22042 (use BLUE parking garage) - Get Directions
IFOH
Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Conference Center, past the Café to the left, 3600 Joseph Siewick Drive, Fairfax, VA - Get Directions
ILH-BR
Inova Loudoun Hospital - Board Room, 2nd floor, 44045 Riverside Pkwy. Leesburg, VA 20176
ILH-ROC
Inova Loudoun Hospital, Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Parkway, Suite
100, Leesburg, VA - Get Directions
MPB-C
Medical Plaza Building, Conference Center, 3700 Joseph Siewick Drive, Fairfax 22033
PCC
Physician’s Conference Center Auditorium on the grounds of Inova Fairfax Hospital, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church. Use BLUE parking garage - Get Directions
SAL
Sunrise Assisted Living at Fair Oaks, 3750 Joseph Siewick Drive, Fairfax (on the grounds of Inova Fair Oaks Hospital - Get Directions
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| For Directions to Life with Cancer Program Facilities call 703.776.2841, and select option #2
For more information about programs and services or to register for classes call 703.776.2841 MondayFriday, 9:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. |
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Life with Cancer will adhere to the following guidelines to determine cancellation of classes or groups due to inclement weather
*If Fairfax County School System and Adult Education Programs are closed due to weather, classes will be canceled for that day and evening.
*If Fairfax County School System and Adult Education Programs have a delayed opening, classes and groups scheduled before 12 noon will be cancelled. Decisions on evening program cancellations will be made by 3 p.m. Please call 703-776-2841 and press option #3 for afternoon and evening cancellations.
For information on cancellations due to inclement weather, please call 703-776-2841 and press option #3. Decisions on evening program cancellations will be made by 3:00 p.m., then call 703- 776-2820 the following business day between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. for rescheduling information.
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