CCAB Supports Cancer Patients

The Cancer Care Advisory Board was formed in June to help local residents who are dealing with cancer by providing financial assistance up to $2500. The gifts are used for a variety of things, from paying for medication not covered by insurance to fixing a leaky roof. A subcommittee of the Campbell County Healthcare Foundation, members of the advisory board include Nachelle McGrath, Leigh Worsley, Marie Hull, Anne Raga and community members Ryan McGrath, Sharon Jensen, Danielle Stovall and Nick Kasperik.

A simple one-page application form is available at Medical and Radiation Oncology, and on the Healthcare Foundation and CCMH websites (visit ccmh.net/CCAB). A total of $5,000 is given out each month using a decision matrix based on need, income and other factors. Medical and Radiation Oncology staff also tell patients about the program if they see a patient in need. For example, one recipient lost her job during her cancer treatment, and her husband had to leave his job to care for her. Their gift was used to repair the roof in their home.

Funding comes from gifts to the Heptner Cancer Center, and Cancer Center Manager Leigh Worsley says the group will have their first fundraising event next year to make sure that help for patients will continue in the future.

“Cancer patients have enough things to be concerned about,” said Advisory Board member Nick Kasperik. “If we can take some of the burden from them it goes a long way toward getting them through their treatment. What we’re really doing is connecting people in need with those in the community who have given to help others.”

For more information about the Cancer Care Advisory Board, or to donate to the program, please contact Nachelle McGrath, CCHCF Executive Director, at 307.688.6235.