Impact Report: Oncology Patient Assistance Funds

Memorial Hospital Foundation provides support to cancer patients through a number of designated funds. The Circle of Hope fund provides over 100 grants annually to patients who seek assistance with basic living expenses, such as rent, utilities, cancer medications, nutrition, and transportation to appointments. In 2016, a generous grant from the Susan B. Komen Foundation helped ensure that more than 50 breast cancer patients had access to this crucial support.

The foundation also provides supportive services such as therapeutic massage and funds for prosthetics, tattoos, wigs, and wig accessories, which have been generously supported by the Cowgirls and Cocktails Committee for several years. These services are deeply appreciated by patients, says Christina Payne, a Breast Nurse Navigator at UCHealth Memorial Hospital. “I had a patient ask if she could get more massages because they have helped her rest and feel relaxed.  She often struggles from insomnia and stated that she sleeps well for about four days after a massage.”

Another Nurse Navigator says, “The stories we hear are all pretty much the same. There is a lot of gratitude expressed by all of our patients whether it be for wigs, scarves or otherwise.  It makes a huge impact on all of our patients not only financially but emotionally in knowing that someone cares—it gives them hope.”

On behalf of the 200+ cancer patients who received help last year, THANK YOU for making a difference in their journey of healing and hope.