2 minute read
Patient Assistance Fund lightens the load for cancer patients
A young man in his 30s, his life in front of him, Mark* was faced with a challenging cancer diagnosis and was too ill to work during treatment. Mark and his wife were also expecting a baby, and his wife’s health was fragile as well—making her unable to continue her job at a restaurant. Combined, they had limited financial resources and were afraid of losing their apartment. Thankfully, Mark was able to apply to the University of Arizona Cancer Center Patient Assistance Fund in Tucson and received vital financial assistance with their rent.
The UACC Patient Assistance Fund helps patients like Mark, who find themselves not only facing cancer and its often grueling treatments, but also loss of income due to missed work. Sometimes, retired couples living on their life savings can find that savings wiped out while battling cancer due to unforeseen expenses and the cost of certain treatments, like radiation, that may not be covered by insurance.
The Patient Assistance Fund can help patients in need with utility bills, transportation to appointments, and local lodging for those who live out of town. In addition, the fund also helps with supportive care services, such as oncology massage, wigs, cold caps, mastectomy supplies, and lymphedema treatments and supplies.
The fund was established 25 years ago thanks to a gift from a patient going through cancer treatment. Meeting fellow patients during their long hours together in the chemotherapy rooms, she learned of their financial struggles as a result of their illness. She was truly motivated to do something to help. Each year, 80 to 90 patients benefit from this fund and the generosity of big-hearted donors.
To support the UA Cancer Center’s Patient Assistance Fund, visit give.bannerhealth.com/uacc and choose the Patient Assistance Fund from the gift designation menu.
