Information and Support at the Cancer Resource Center

When you’re given a diagnosis of cancer, you want information and support from people who know you and who care. The Boutique and Cancer Resource Center at the Heptner Cancer Center has both. It’s a place to get reliable information on many cancer topics that are offered to all patients undergoing radiation or chemotherapy. It’s a place to get a free wig, a warm hat, scarf, head wrap, or beanie so patients can feel more like themselves while undergoing treatment.

 “I enjoyed being able to choose a wig for myself,” said Cindy Petitt, a local cancer patient. “I’m grateful this service was available.”

 The Resource Center has educational information on local and regional resources for breast cancer patients, like cancer rehab, lymphedema therapy and support groups. It also has access to certified mastectomy fitter Vickie Balo, and a private fitting area. Vickie works in the Heptner Cancer Center and helping patients get the right supplies and a custom fit is her passion.

Heptner Cancer Center Director Leigh Johnson was recently notified that the Resource Center is the recipient of a grant from the Wyoming Breast Cancer Initiative to help women purchase post-mastectomy items that aid them in the healing process, both physically and mentally. At just over $19,000, breast cancer patients can apply for up to $400 to be used for mastectomy fittings, and prosthetic breast forms, post-mastectomy compression bras, camisoles, swimsuits and scar/healing patches. Funds from the grant can help almost 50 patients. Call the Heptner Cancer Center at 307-688-1950 for more information on this grant.

 The Boutique and Cancer Resource Center was created with funding from a grant from the Wyoming Breast Cancer Initiative, with support from Paint Gillette Pink, Campbell County’s month-long series of community events each October to support the Cancer Care Committee. The Cancer Care Committee is a project of the Northeast Wyoming Community Health Foundation, formerly the Campbell County Healthcare Foundation, to help local cancer patients with expenses through a grant process.

To learn more about the Cancer Care Committee, call 307-688-1962.