A cancer diagnosis changes…everything. So many questions, so much to decide. What kind of treatment will you have? Can you still work? How will your loved ones be affected? And how much will all this cost?
The last thing a cancer patient should have to worry about is putting food on the table or having enough gas to drive to doctor appointments. But for too many in our community, fears like that can be a reality.
That’s why the Helen G. Nassif Community Cancer Center created the Patient Assistance Spirit Fund. The Nassif Community Cancer Center’s mission is to help and support patients and their family members from diagnosis through survivorship. That includes reducing the barriers to cancer care so patients get the effective treatment and follow-up services they need.
“Our caregivers saw patients who were struggling with basic necessities,” explains manager Matt Schmitz. “The Spirit Fund provides direct financial relief for individuals with a cancer diagnosis. Qualifying patients can receive
up to $500 in gift card support to cover essentials such as food, fuel or medical supplies that aren’t covered by
insurance.”
St. Luke’s Health Care Foundation has started an annual fundraising campaign on behalf of the Spirit Fund, with the goal of helping 100 cancer patients a year. The Transamerica Foundation has generously contributed
$20,000 towards that goal. Other gifts include a transportation grant from the American Cancer Society.
Qualifying patients must be receiving oncology care within the Nassif Community Cancer Center’s service area and be under the care of at least one Community Cancer Center provider. Eligibility is based on annual household income.
“The Spirit Fund reflects the compassion of a community coming together to support individuals and families
facing cancer,” says Laura Wirth, Transamerica Foundation board member. “The Transamerica Foundation is proud to support St. Luke’s Health Care Foundation in providing practical assistance that allows patients to focus on their health and healing.”
Matt adds, “The need for Spirit Fund assistance is greater than ever. Cancer rates in Iowa are on the rise. With grocery and fuel costs up and benefits shrinking, any help we can give our patients will make a real difference in their quality of life.”
The need for help from the Spirit Fund continues to exceed the available dollars. Now St. Luke’s Health Care Foundation is raising $50,000 to ease the burden for cancer patients in our community. Donate today at communitycancercenter.org or call (319) 369-8100 for more information.
