American Cancer Society and Josephine Ford Cancer Center Downriver Team Up

Nov. 9, 2009 - PRLog -- For the 51,000 people in Michigan who will be diagnosed with cancer this year, emotions will run high and questions will need answers. The American Cancer Society understands that dealing with cancer is difficult, and strives to make help easy to find and easy to use to lessen the impact of the disease.  

A newly diagnosed patient may need information about treatment options, talking to his or her family, or even understanding the complex medical system. There are many practical considerations as well, such as what treatment will be like, how to handle financial concerns, or how to get to and from appointments.

Through the Cancer Resource Center at Josephine Ford Cancer Center, the Society offers the Brownstown/Downriver community programs and services that address the needs of those touched by cancer. “We do everything we can to improve quality of life for patients, caregivers, and survivors during and after diagnosis and treatment,” said Mitzi Cardona, American Cancer Society, Community Program Manager. “Whether it’s as simple as providing an introduction to cancer.org, providing clinical trial information, helping with the management of treatment side effects, organizing rides to medical appointments, or helping with insurance and financial questions, the Cancer Resource Center’s volunteers offer help and hope throughout the cancer experience.”  

Many different forms of support are available, both online and in person. The Society provides ways for patients and caregivers to connect with survivors and other volunteers – one on one or in groups – to share experiences, learn about cancer, and gain encouragement.

Cancer Resource Center volunteers guide patients and their families through every step of the cancer experience, helping them understand the range of options and make the most out of the complex health care system. These programs and services meet needs that may arise from the day of a diagnosis through years after completing treatment.  
The Josephine Ford Cancer Center Downriver Cancer Resource Center at will be open Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Anyone seeking additional information about the Cancer Resource Center can do so by calling 734.479.3311  or 1.800.227.2345 or by visiting  www.cancer.org.

# # #

The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering, and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy, and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information anytime, call toll free 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.