The American Cancer Society (ACS) offers a number of services to aid cancer patients in their battle.
“When you first hear you have cancer, folks are just, your life stops, and you don’t know what to do.”, says ACS Cancer Action Network Senior Grassroots manager Tim Freeman.
It is shocking news that is filled with uncertainty and unease. The organization’s aim is to alleviate as much stress as possible for patients and families.
“The first thing you want to do is figure out, okay, what am I going to do, but then how is this going to impact my family? How is this going to impact my finances? Those types of things.”, Freeman explained.
Amidst the questions and fear, the American Cancer Society steps up to the plate.
“We can help ease that burden for people by helping offer things.”, Freeman stated.
Being in Mid-Missouri even geography can be a bit of a hiccup, but the ACS has that under control.
“Sometimes people that live in rural areas, it’s quite a drive to get to where their cancer treatments could be, whether it’s in St. Louis or Kansas City.”, said Freeman
The ACS provides transportation for those who need it, but if the stay out-of-town will span multiple days the organization is also able to help in those cases.
“We have hope lodges, one in St. Louis and one in Kansas City, where folks can stay for as long as they need to while they’re going through their cancer treatments. Their families can come and stay with them at the Hope Lodge.”, Freeman stated.
A battle with cancer is not an easy road, but many people have safely reached the end of that path as a survivor.
The ACS gives patients a chance to connect with those who can relate to the process.
“To have that connection, that personal connection with someone who knows what you’re going through, it’s a different kind of conversation that you can have. They can kind of help ease your mind or if you’re having a bad day, they can say, ‘hey, I’ve been there, you’re going to get through this.’ And that really helps as well.” Freeman said.
A cancer diagnosis is never simple, making the burden as light as possible can be the difference in turning patients into survivors.
The ACS encourages people to check out their website for the services it can provide.
Information is also available on the organizations mobile app, and you can call 1-800-227-2345, or 1-800-ACS-2345 to get the help and support your or a family member or friend may need.
