Caring for cancer patients

In 2021, Cancer Services provided direct support to 241 cancer patients in Erie, Huron and Ottawa Counties. Cancer Services is located in Sandusky and provides services for those affected by cancer. Services are provided at no cost to cancer patients and are designed to help reduce the financial and emotional burdens that often come after a cancer diagnosis. All donations, monetary and in-kind, are raised locally and stay local to serve our community. Our services include: • Transportation: Patients may call us to schedule a ride to their cancer-related appointments. We utilize volunteers, local taxis and shuttles to provide these rides. We have helped provide trips locally and to surrounding areas, such as Cleveland, Toledo and Columbus. For patients that use their own cars, we have a mileage reimbursement program to help offset the cost of gas. Prescription assistance: This program is available to cancer patients who may need assistance with paying for the cost of cancer-related mediations. This includes anti-nausea, pain medications and medications prescribed for depression, anxiety and insomnia. Nutrition: We offer Boost, Ensure and Pedialyte to cancer patients undergoing active cancer treatment to help increase their calorie and protein intake. We always carry strawberry, vanilla and chocolate flavors. Medical equipment and supplies: We have a generous supply of hospital beds, wheelchairs, shower chairs, walkers, bandages, chux, pullups, ostomy supplies and more for cancer patients to use. Wig Boutique: Our Wig and Mastectomy Boutique offers cancer patients wigs, mastectomy bras, turbans, zip tees and personal care items in a private and comfortable atmosphere. The staff and volunteers at Cancer Services are trained to assist with wig and mastectomy bra fittings while also providing emotional support for cancer patients and their families. Last year, we provided over $50,000 in support services to local cancer patients, which included 1,508 trips, 500 cases of nutrition, 166 prescriptions and 71 wigs. All of our services are provided at no cost thanks to the generosity of donors, foundations and third-party fundraisers. Cancer Services is preparing for an increase in cancer diagnosis by ensuring that we have enough medical supplies, equipment, nutrition and support for cancer patients in the coming years. Many doctors worry that the next surge of patients will be those with advanced chronic disease. The pandemic had disrupted regular checkups and screenings while hospitals were overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients. If you have not scheduled a routine checkup recently or put it off due to the pandemic, please schedule a test today. These screenings can help catch cancer early and save lives. If you have any questions about our services or who to call to schedule your screenings. Cecily BrownCancer Services executive director If you want to submit a Local Voices column, please email it to brandonaddeo@tandemnetwork.com. Columns should be 500-750 words and include the writer's headshot, or other photo.