ACS offers number of services to local cancer patients

In the fight against cancer, the American Cancer Society places a focus on cancer patient services--hoping to ease cancer's impact on people's lives.

"Your American Cancer Society provides the latest information about cancer and guidance to local community resources," said LeAnn Stuart, a registered nurse at Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center, Outpatient Infusion Services.

"Programs, services and materials to cancer patients and their families are available with no eligibility requirements and at no direct cost through public contributions, such as the Relay For Life of Dunklin County, coming up on August 21 at the American Legion in Kennett, MO."

The American Cancer Society helps people with cancer and their families in Dunklin County through a toll free number that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. By calling 1-800-227-2345, a cancer information specialist can offer assistance.

Resources can also be found on the American Cancer Society's web site at www.cancer.org. With a click of the mouse, patients and caregivers can log onto the Cancer Survivors Network and seek support. The site offers discussion groups, personal stories, and communication with others via email, and resources such as suggested books, articles, and web sites.

The Society offers limited tangible services such as the Nutritional Supplement Ensure, which can be found at Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center, BAILS and the Dunklin County Health Department. Other items such as free wigs, turbans, breast prosthesis and mastectomy bras can be obtained by contacting Marcie Lawson at the local American Cancer Society office at 573-471-1873, with no travel required by the patient.

Volunteers who have experienced cancer also visit patients and their families to support them in adjusting to their diagnosis, according to Lawson. The Reach to Recovery program is for breast cancer patients. Through the I Can Cope program, cancer patients and loved ones learn to cope with their cancer experience by increasing their knowledge and coping skills in a supportive environment.

Other support programs include Look Good...Feel Better, a free service that provides information to cancer patients undergoing treatment to help them look and feel more comfortable.

If anyone in Dunklin County or surrounding areas are in need of these services, or wishes to volunteer, contact the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.