A cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. It’s not just the physical effects of the disease; it’s the emotional, financial, and logistical stress that comes with it.
Resources:
Financial Assistance and Insurance Help
1. CancerCare (Financial Assistance)
Description: Offers financial assistance for cancer patients, covering co-pays, transportation, and other related costs.
Who it’s for: People struggling to afford their treatments.
- For more information, visit: cancercare.org
2. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS)
Description: Provides financial assistance and information about how to manage treatment costs, particularly for blood cancer patients.
Who it’s for: Leukemia and lymphoma patients.
- For more information, visit: lls.org
3. NeedyMeds (Prescription Help & Discount Programs)
Description: A great resource for those needing help with the costs of prescriptions, offering discount cards and a searchable database for financial aid.
Who it’s for: Anyone looking to save on medications.
- For more information, visit: needymeds.org
4. The HealthWell Foundation
Description: Provides financial assistance to underinsured individuals to help with medical costs, such as co-pays for prescriptions and treatments.
Who it’s for: Those with high medical expenses and insurance limitations.
- For more information, visit: healthwellfoundation.org
5. Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition (CFAC)
Description: A coalition of organizations that provide financial aid to cancer patients. It includes help with everything from transportation costs to medical bills.
Who it’s for: People facing financial hardship due to cancer.
- For more information, visit: cancerfac.org
Emotional & Psychological Support
1. National Cancer Institute (NCI) Helpline
Description: Offers information and resources about cancer, including emotional support options.
Who it’s for: Cancer patients and their families seeking reliable information.
- For more information, visit: cancer.gov
2. Cancer Support Community
Description: A nonprofit that provides free counseling and support groups for cancer patients and their families.
Who it’s for: Individuals in need of emotional support.
- For more information, visit: mylifeline.org
3. 7 Cups
Description: A free online emotional support platform that connects people with trained listeners.
Who it’s for: Anyone needing immediate emotional support.
- For more information, visit: 7cups.com
4. Wellness House
Description: Offers a range of free programs, including individual counseling, support groups, and stress management classes.
Who it’s for: Those looking for psychological support during treatment.
- For more information, visit: wellnesshouse.org
5. The Mighty
Description: A platform where people with health challenges can share their stories and connect with others in similar situations.
Who it’s for: Those who feel isolated and want to share their journey with others.
- For more information, visit: themighty.com
Practical Support and Everyday Assistance
1. Meals on Wheels
Description: Provides free or discounted meal services to cancer patients who are too ill to cook or go out.
Who it’s for: Patients who need help with nutrition during treatment.
- For more information, visit: mealsonwheelsamerica.org
2. American Cancer Society (ACS) Rides to Treatment
Description: Offers free rides to cancer patients who need assistance getting to treatment centers.
Who it’s for: Those who are struggling with transportation to and from appointments.
- For more information, visit: cancer.org
3. Imerman Angels
Description: A free mentoring program that pairs cancer patients with someone who has had a similar diagnosis, offering guidance, empathy, and understanding.
Who it’s for: People who need one-on-one support from someone who has walked the same path.
- For more information, visit: imermanangels.org
4. Cancer Hope Network
Description: Provides support through one-on-one peer counseling for people going through cancer treatment or recovery.
Who it’s for: Cancer patients looking for peer support.
- For more information, visit: cancerhopenetwork.org
4. Air Charity Network
Description: Provides free air travel for patients in need of medical treatment, reducing the burden of travel expenses for those in rural or remote areas.
Who it’s for: People who need help with travel costs to access specialized care.
- For more information, visit: aircharitynetwork.org