CancerCare® Raises Nearly $665,000 to Support Cancer Patients Affected by Hurricanes

Majority of funding allocated to help people with cancer in Puerto Rico

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Jan 30, 2018, 09:00 ET

NEW YORK, Jan. 30, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Four months after Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Jose and Maria touched ground, the communities in their wake are still recovering. Among them, many people with cancer are facing the daily challenges of their diagnosis and treatment, even as they attempt to rebuild their lives.

Since September 2017, national nonprofit organization CancerCare® has raised nearly $665,000 to provide direct financial assistance for people with cancer who have been impacted by hurricanes. The majority of this support has been allocated to people with cancer in Puerto Rico, many of whom are struggling to access treatment while lacking basic necessities like power and clean water. Support has also been provided to Puerto Rican residents who relocated to the continental United States after Hurricane Maria.

"Coping with cancer during a natural disaster can result in tremendous distress and upheaval for patients," says CancerCare CEO, Patricia J. Goldsmith. "CancerCare's approach of providing direct financial assistance enables patients to respond to needs as they arise: whether that means paying for fuel, replacing damaged medication or purchasing basic necessities."

In Puerto Rico, funds were distributed in partnership with more than 100 local oncology providers. CancerCare also partnered with a local medical transportation company, which has provided 954 rides to and from oncology practices to date.

About CancerCare^®

Founded in 1944, CancerCare is the leading national organization providing free, professional support services and information to help people manage the emotional, practical and financial challenges of cancer. Our comprehensive services include counseling and support groups over the phone, online and in-person, educational workshops, publications and financial and co-payment assistance. All CancerCare services are provided by oncology social workers and world-leading cancer experts.

To learn more, visit www.cancercare.org or call 800-813-HOPE (4673).

SOURCE CancerCare