In the summer of 1946, a group of physicians and community leaders had a vision to assist low-income, underserved cancer patients facing numerous nonmedical challenges, including loss of health insurance, lack of transportation to treatment and the inability to pay for cancer-related medications. The compassionate advocates created a unique and inventive organization for cancer patients – the Fort Worth Cancer Society. Seven decades later, the vision of a few has become the reality of thousands each year for today’s Cancer Care Services.
Now serving nearly 5,000 individuals annually throughout Tarrant, Parker and Hood Counties, Cancer Care Services is commemorating its 70th anniversary through a fundraising luncheon:
Heroes of Hope Luncheon Celebrating the Joy of Life
Thursday, Nov. 10
11:45 a.m.
Ridglea Country Club – 3700 Bernie Anderson Ave., 76116
Thanks to the generous support of Texas Oncology, there is no cost to attend the luncheon; however, a charitable donation will be requested. Table hosts are still welcome; reservations are required. For more information, contact Deanna Stuart – Deanna@cancercareservices.org.
“Throughout the last 70 years, we estimate that Cancer Care Services has provided financial, emotional, spiritual and social support to more than 100,000 cancer patients and families throughout our community,” said Melanie Wilson, president and chief executive officer of Cancer Care Services since 2010. A cancer survivor herself, Wilson’s history with the nonprofit is personal, as she has also been a caregiver to family members with cancer.
In 2015, Cancer Care Services provided benefits to 4,600 clients through 11 licensed social workers, two registered oncology dietitians and a client activities manager for:
- Health insurance - $312,868
- Emotional and social support - $462,154
- Transportation - $96,048
- Medication - $292,390
- Medical equipment and supplies - $49,112
- Nutrition - $163,055
“Whether for equipment or nutrition, transportation or health insurance, every single dollar we disperse directly impacts the lives of cancer patients, caregivers and survivors,” continued Wilson. “Every client’s diagnosis leads them and their families down a difficult and diverse journey. No two situations are alike.”
The public also is invited to attend a Heroes of Hope Tour – a one-hour overview of the agency that is offered several times each month, at no charge. To sign up, go to http://cancercareservices.org/heroes-of-hope/. For more information, contact Deanna Stuart – Deanna@cancercareservices.org, 817.921.0653.
www.cancercareservices.org