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Patient Services

In 1995, approximately 800,000 cancer patients were helped through the service and rehabilitation programs of the American Cancer Society.

Service Programs

Community Connection: Resources, Information, and Guidance
Community Connection: RIG is your connection to the local services of the American Cancer Society. RIG provides the most current information about cancer and guidance to the Society's programs and to other resources in your community. Volunteers offer a listening ear for callers' fears and concerns, and provide help in finding solutions for the varied problems surrounding the illness and its treatment. The listings in this section provide an overview of services that might be available through your local Society.

Reach to Recovery
Reach to Recovery is a visitation program for women and their families with a personal concern about breast cancer. Trained volunteers who have experienced breast cancer themselves provide information and support.

Look Good...Feel Better
This service teaches women facing cancer beauty techniques to help enhance their appearance and self-image during chemotherapy and radiation treatments. The program is co-sponsored by the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association Foundation and the National Cosmetology Association. It is designed to help women recovering from cancer deal with the side effects of cancer treatment such as dry skin, hair loss, etc.

I Can Cope
This patient and family cancer education program consists of a series of classes, often held at a local hospital. Doctors, nurses, social workers and community representatives provide information about cancer diagnosis and treatment as well as assistance in coping with the physical and emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis.

Man to Man
For men with prostate cancer, the Man to Man program provides education and support. It offers an opportunity for men to talk openly with each other and with health professionals about their disease and related concerns. Some groups also offer "side by side" sessions for women partners.

Self-Help and Support Groups
Offered to patients, families and friends, these programs vary according to local needs and resources.

Laryngectomy Rehabilitation
The International Association of Laryngectomeees, supported in part by the American Cancer Society, provides pre- and postoperative support for patients through visits by trained volunteers and, in some areas, laryngectomy clubs.

Ostomy Rehabilitation
In cooperation with the United Ostomy Association and enterostomal therapists, trained volunteers who have experienced the same type of surgery as the patient offer help on a one-to-one basis.

Transportation
Trained volunteer drivers provide transportation that enables patients to get to and from treatment. Called "Road to Recovery" in some areas.

Home Care Items
The local American Cancer Society may have a variety of medical equipment such as hospital beds, walkers, wheelchairs or other supplies available for loan to cancer patients. Insurance or Medicare benefits will be utilized when appropriate. In addition, limited financial assistance for services such as housekeeping may be available in some areas.

CanSurmount
A short-term program for cancer patients and their families. Trained volunteers who have experienced the same type of cancer offer support through one-on-one visits.

Children's Camps
In some areas, the American Cancer Society sponsors camps for children who have, or have had, cancer. These camps are equipped to handle the special needs of children undergoing treatment.

Patient and Family Education
The American Cancer Society provides a number of pamphlets and brochures to help patients understand and cope with their disease. Topics include caring for the cancer patient at home, sexuality and cancer, talking with your doctor, pain control and many others. Call your local American Cancer Society for these free materials. Some areas also loan videotapes to cancer patients.

Group Support Programs
Offered to patients, families and friends, these programs vary according to each Division's needs and resources.

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