Fun Free Opportunities/resources for Breast Cancer patients

[SusanN]

Thank you for this information Paula!! What a blessing and outreach, I think I know a family that would love and appreciate this so very much!!

[Paula O]

I hope Camp Kesem works out for your friends, Sue! :-) It certainly is a wonderful opportunity. Cancer affects the whole family and is tough on our kids too.

Paula
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take.

Here's another free resource:

http://www.circleofhopeduluth.org/
(direct quotes copied and pasted below from this web site)

Our Primary Missions:





Circle of Hope is located out ofDuluth, MN and is an organization committed to serving breast cancer patients in northern Minnesota and northern
Wisconsin. It is a 501(c) 3 charitable organization serving the public interest of helping people of any age in poverty and financial distress with a breast
cancer diagnosis.

Our mission is achieved in several ways.


1. We pay payments for breast cancer treatment bills from designated funds that have been raised from fundraisers, third party fundraisers, small grants and designated donor money. These payments are paid to the providers of the services not to patients. They fill out the paper work.


2. Circle of Hope has set up a fund for paying bills to help breast cancer patients with rent/mortgage, utilities, food and gas cards. Bus passes are also available.
The money from this account comes from donations, fundraisers, third party fundraisers and grants. A large grant for this purpose solely came The Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the Minnesota affilate. This is a 7 page application with a cover letter initiated by a social worker or financial worker. This is for Minnesota residents of northern and middle Minnesota.


3.Sometimes other organizations specify a donation for patient bill paying. There is limited money for Wisconsin but there are always new donors who want to help the cause. It is best to call and ask.

Circle of Hope is committed toward helping people with a breast cancer diagnosis by improving their lives. Financial assistance will be given to patients as
the funds are provided and clients qualify.


This group is on hold at the moment: Circle of Hope has a support group called "Circle of Support" which is for any breast cancer survivor and/or gynecological patient. Supporters will be included if there is room if confidential matters are not being discussed. Gynecological patients will be given help in this
new start up initiative by being a part of the Circle of Support group and participating in various activities of their choosing.
Personalized 1 on 1 conferences: At this time, someone can meet with you on an individual basis. If you would like personalized time or 1 on 1 time to discuss any issue call and we will set up a time that we can meet you. It maybe in the office or we can go out for coffee. We have a resource library of materials.1.218.525.1905, ask for Peggy or call our office at 1.218.464.1626.
A partnership of ours: abcd-after breast cancer diagnosis-the power of one-to-one, Take Your Breast Cancer Journey With Someone Who's Been "In Your Shoes."Call 1.414.977.1780 or 1.800.977.4121, You can get immediate support from beast cancer survivors, helpline mentors, be lined up with individualized matches from Match Mentors, and they can even connect you with more resources. This is a free service. Also check out their website at: www.abcdbreastcancersupport.org


Circle of Hope is exclusively educational and charitable.


(Approved by the Board on 7/2/12.)
----------------------------------------------


Breast Cancer Treatment bills include breast cancer surgery, oncology/chemo, radiation, dental work (related to chemo), lymph edema expenses and
prescription loophole drug coverage Payments are made to the providers of services. Patients need to apply for help. Circle of Hope is often the last
payee in the process. They help those in financial distress and poverty. There are income guidelines and criteria.


There are a couple of ways patients can apply. A client can fill out the grant form online, get the form at their clinic/hospital or call or have the forms
sent in the mail (218.525.1905 or 218.464.1626). Bills must be submitted with the application or sent in the mail with theAuthorization For Use or
Disclosure of Information Form. The forms need to be filled out by the patient as these are legal documents.

How does the block grant treatment payment program work? Financial help will be given based on the application and meeting specific criteria from
a grid developed from the application. Patients should always go through their clinics and hospitals to see what financial resources are available first. After
this procedure, clients should contact Circle of Hope. This organization follows H.I.P.P.A. policies, adheres to patient privacy and pays directly to
providers for breast cancer treatment services.


What are other resources that are available to breast cancer patients?
Other resources include financial help with bills (rent/mortgage, utilities, gas cards. bus cards, and food cards). More money is available in Minnesota.
If you would like to donate, let us know by sending your donation in the mail or adding a donation by credit card online. These applications will be available
through clinics/hospitals, as there are specific people who need to fill out portions before the patient fills out his or her section. Talk to an oncologist social
worker or financial worker.


What are other ways a breast cancer patient can receive help?
There are other services offered as well by Circle of Hope. If one does not qualify for financial help, the secretary can point out the resources that are
available locally, statewide and nationally to get the needed help.


What are " feel good social activities"?
Some services may be achieved through our community support group called Circle of Support, telephone calls, one-to-one meetings or
participation in inclusive group activities. Circle of Support group meets the last Wednesday of the month (except in August and December).
The new time is 4 p.m.-5 p.m.at 314 W. Superior Street, # 610.To participate RSVP to Peggy at 525-1905 or e-mail for details to:
peggy@circleofhopeduluth.org.
-Clients will need to fill out a simple form the first time they attend.
-We are know including gynecological cancer patients along with breast cancer patients in our support group and activities.
-Circle of Hope has a resource library of materials, books, and CD's.


We have partnered with a few other organizations that can help breast cancer patients. One is: abcd after breast cancer diagnosis,
the power of one-to-one. This is the former Y-Me staff and the organization is located in Glendale, Wisconsin. Call and they will line you up
with a trained mentor or companion with your same diagnosis to speak to about unanswered questions you may have. They want your calls and
there is "the power of one-to-one." There is no cost. It is a non-profit as well. Call 1.414.977.1780 or toll free: 1.800.977.4121. Their website is: www.abcdbreastcancersupport.org


Another partner we are recommending is the The Cancer Support Community, a global network of Education and Hope. This group has an
online support group that is great. They are located out of Washington, D.C. Both of these agencies Peggy talked to in Texas and has written them. www.CancerSupportCommunity.org. This is a free service.




What about gynecological patients? They can call Peggy at 218-525-1905 to participate in support group or participate in activities.

[Paula O]

Registration for the 2014 Women of Color Cancer Retreat is now open.
This retreat is held at Rotary’s Camp FL 1915 Camp Florida Road, Brandon, FL 33510 the weekend of August 1-3, 2014. Registration is now open for new and returning campers. If you would like to register for this weekend camp – which starts Friday night at 6pm and is over on Sunday at noon you can call the office at 813 948-7478. This camp is open to any women of color who has been diagnosed with any type of cancer. Registration is on a first come, first serve basis. As with all programs at Faces of Courage this camp is available at no cost to the participants.

Please share with any Cancers Survivors who would enjoy spending a weekend being spoiled in a tranquil enviroment.

Peggy Sherry
Faces of Courage

[Paula O]

http://www.athletes4cancer.org/programs



"Athletes 4 Cancer is dedicated to enriching lives through the healing powers of the elements and the outdoors as a way to move forward after cancer.

Camp is open to young survivors who have been diagnosed between the ages of 18 and 40. Camps are FREE for survivors to attend! On occasion, we host special trips where a fundraising component may be required. Participants must arrange and cover their travel to camp.


We believe that every survivor should have access to the healing characteristics that the elements and the outdoors offer. Athletes 4 Cancer creates life-changing experiences for cancer fighters and survivors through outdoor adventure programs that challenge, support, and inspire individuals to rebuild their lives after cancer.

We recognize an immediate need for viable resources and survivorship-focused programs in our community. Cancer survivors face unique challenges after cancer, with life turning upside down physically, emotionally, and psychologically. Cancer may have spared these individual their lives, but the scars left behind are often more severe than the fight itself.

A4C introduces fighters and survivors to the snow or ocean environment, empowering them to find healing and achievement through surfing, standup paddling, outrigger canoeing, snowboarding, and other outdoor adventures. Our goal is to transform survivor outlook on life, empower them to find confidence to thrive, succeed and inspire others facing cancer to do the same."
-------------------------

Looks like fun! The next camp coming up without a waiting list and dates to be determined is in Hawaii in the spring. See below:
2016 Retreat Schedule:

Schedule is subject to change before Jan. 1 for the following year. For complete retreat dates, check back in January.

March 27-April 2 Skiing & Snowboarding - Mt. Hood, Oregon - FULL

April 17-23 Surf & Standup Paddling - Hawaii - FULL

April 25-May 1 Surf & Standup Paddling - Hawaii - FULL

November 6-12: Surf & Standup Paddling -- Maui, Hawaii - Waitlist

November 14-20: Surf & Standup Paddling -- Maui, Hawaii - Waitlist

Spring 2017 Dates TBD: Surf & Standup Paddling -- Maui, Hawaii



Hope someboody (ies) here get to enjoy this!

Paula

My blog: http://jpoliver.com/wordpress/

[Paula O]

Anybody else's children participated this summer in Camp Kesem? This is a free camp for kids with a parent with cancer and put on in many states by University students. I've shared the info and contact link about it previously in this thread. My girls attended for their third year this summer, one of them as a "counselor in training". It is a FABULOUS, action-packed, fun filled week! Here is a slide show of the camp my girls got back from last week:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blwPw1pfGmc.

It's well worth considering for next summer IMHO if you are interested.

Paula

[healing]

My son and two of his friends attended Camp Kesem this summer. They had an absolute blast! It's a wonderful program with dedicated counselors who have just as much fun as the kids. My son can't wait for next year!

[Paula O]

Healing,
I'm glad your son and his friends got to go too. It's a really neat camp not based on financial need and an amazing opportunity for kids with a parent having cancer. Did your son tell you about "cabin chats" and the empowerment ceremony? The non-pressure opportunities for the kids to open up and share IF THEY WANT to are a real gift.

Here's another resource for anyone in this situation:

http://inheritanceofhope.org/compone...ticle/461.html

INHERITANCE OF HOPE LEGACY SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION


The Inheritance of Hope Legacy Scholarship is awarded to a college-bound high school senior who is living with a terminally ill parent and who demonstrates a compelling personal and financial need, a strong sense of family, and collegiate promise. The award amount is a one-time payment of $1,000. All three parts of the application must be received by May 31, 2015; the full submission can be done online for your convenience.

[Paula O]

"Peppermint & Ginger Comfort Kits are FREE kits created to help provide comfort and help alleviate some of the more common side effects caused by chemotherapy. An “Adult Kit” contains peppermint and ginger teas (which can help ease nausea), a soft bristle toothbrush, alcohol free mouth wash and toothpaste and lip balm (to help ease oral side effects experienced as a result of treatment), warm socks and a relaxation CD. When possible, P&G adds in other goodies as well. Their “Pediatric Kit” contains hot chocolate instead of teas and it’s contents will vary depending on the age of the patient.

If you know of a cancer patient receiving chemotherapy or if you yourself are a patient and would like one of these comforting kits, please go to: http://www.pandgcomfortkits.org/inde...rm=Request_Kit to request one."

[mouser2843]

I wonder if these kits are available in Canada? My husband just went and ordered one for me and am really hoping it comes! Thanks for the post!

[Paula O]

I hope they mail the kits to Canada and you get one.
Paula

[Paula O]

Copied and pasted from: http://takeabreakfromcancer.org/

For Pete’s Sake Cancer Respite Foundation has an elegantly simple model: provide adult cancer patients facing rigorous treatment or a guarded diagnosis with an opportunity to spend carefree and cost-free time with their caregiver and children in lovely settings.

FPS families create priceless magical, memorable moments. Together, even for a glimpse, they experience immeasurable joy amidst devastating crisis. FPS offers comfortable and secure environments for families to celebrate in the face of uncertainty, reflect and reconnect in the midst of turmoil and strengthen their inner faith and share inspiration in the shadow of adversity. We encourage families to confront cancer hardships together. This experience empowers them for what lies ahead and encourages them to share their experiences as a beacon of hope for others. Their success inspires our gift-givers and grant-makers to help us.

Our program targets an area that modern medicine struggles to address: the emotional, psychological and spiritual trauma of a cancer diagnosis. FPS provides a safe haven for emotional expression. For some, this travel experience is merely a vacation, for others a respite, and for others precious time for family devotion before an impending death. FPS is the only organization that focuses exclusively on therapeutic respite travel experiences for adult cancer patients, their caregivers and families.

Nominate a Patient
Are you or someone you know interested in our program? Only Oncology Team members are permitted to make a nomination to our program, and new nominators must undergo a brief in-service to learn about our mission and guidelines. Please contact us and we’ll contact you within 48 business hours.

Are you a patient or friend or family of a patient? Contact us and we’ll explain how our program works. You can then give the information to an Oncology Team member.

- See more at: http://takeabreakfromcancer.org/prog....aCLfJmNu.dpuf

[Paula O]

https://www.portpillows.com/
"Hello my name is Amanda Rosen! A couple months ago I came up with an idea to make Port Pillows after some friends of mine said that the seat belt was hurting them when they were in the car driving to and from infusions.

They told me that they would stick the seat belt behind their back, so that it would not rub them. My goal was to find a safer way. This is when I reached out for help from the community. I was able to get supplies donated and people to donate their time to sew pillows. The response was amazing! We donated over 1,600 pillows locally and have personally mailed more then 400 special individual requests both in the United States and internationally. We have delivered pillows to all the Levine Cancer Institute Infusions Centers, Levine Children’s Hospital, Healthy & Home and Home Infusion Locations. We have expanded quickly as you can imagine to several hospitals and support groups across the country. We have just completed an order for a cancer support group in England.

Shipping all over the world. Port pillows are for anyone that has a port! We have all different colors, themes, special interests and children fabric like superhero’s, princesses and themes that are popular for children and adults! We even take special requests if we can!

The best part is that the pillows are 100% free to all patients with a port and that includes shipping. We are asking for donations for supplies and that also supports us being able to continue to provide something so small during such a difficult journey for these very couragous patients. We have had an outpouring of support from volunteers reaching out to see how they can help. It takes all kinds of support to continue this wonderful project and we can’t do it without all of you. A very special lady Mrs. Robin Ciarico Harris is an amazing woman who jumped into action and has become an extension of our family. She is our sewing expert and has put so many hours into this project. We need continued help and support. I have also met a wonderful lady Ms. Susan Morgan with Springs Creative Products Group that has made so many generous donations of amazing fabric. Again the tremendous outreach from the community goes from “Charlotte and Beyond. The community has been great!

We have created a Paypal Donation link because people have wanted to donate and do not know where to go to donate. This money will be used for supplies and shipping! More details to follow regarding a local “Sew-A-Thon/BYOM” at the Morrison YMCA. I’m incredibly inspired by the kindness and generosity. The patients are the courageous ones fighting the fight and if we can provide a little comfort during their journey that is what it is all about.

Many Thanks!"

Amanda Rosen

[Paula O]

For those in the Central FL area:
Copied and pasted from:
http://www.compassionatehandsandhearts.org/our-purpose/

"We just can’t get you out of our minds. Some of us have survived cancer. Some of us have watched our loved ones battle it. What we have in common is that we all know how cancer takes a toll on the patient and the family.

That’s the reason for Compassionate Hands and Hearts Breast Cancer Outreach.

We are volunteers who want to open our hearts and share our time with breast cancer patients and their families. We want to be there for you physically, mentally and emotionally.

Perhaps you want to talk about life, your family or just vent. We’ll listen. Perhaps you need a hand with errands or someone to help you with what used to be an ordinary chore.

We’re here for you.

We are thinking of you right now.

And we’re ready to extend our compassionate hands and hearts to help you along this journey."

[Paula O]

Copied and pasted from ; https://compassionthatcompels.org/home/

What’s inside a free Compassion Bag?

Be Strong Tote – Anyone who is battling cancer has at one time stuffed their clothes into an oversized plastic bag.
Jesus Calling Devotional – God’s word reminds you, a cancer overcomer, that you’re first an overcomer in Christ.
DaySpring Notebook – To phonetically write down all those big, Latin sounding words that confirm this won’t go away with antibiotics, and wish you’d paid more attention in science class.
DaySpring Journal – To record those thoughts between you and God.
Custom Pen – You can never find a pen when you need one.
Organic Decaf Tea- Because hospital coffee at 6 pm is often thick as glue.
BPA-Free Mug – For when coffee glue can’t be found.
Scripture Candy Soft Mints – During treatment your mouth is always dry or suddenly becomes dry when you see a doctor approaching with your chart in hand.
$5.00 Chick-fil-A Gift Card – Just to get away from a hospital to a land flowing with sweet tea and nugget sauce.
Soft Custom Blanket – To cover you with His love. Besides, if you’re not freezing, the person next to you probably is.

[Paula O]

Copied and pasted from: http://www.divaforaday.org/

Diva for a Day Foundation, Inc. is a non profit organization founded in 2010 by two friends who recognize the benefits of a day to escape from the daily stresses a woman will face while dealing with cancer.



Through the program, special Divas are selected to enjoy a complete day of pampering at a FABULOUS full service Salon/Spa.


It is a day to rest, relax and restore.
The Divas have a BEAUTIFUL day that they will always remember.
Please help us to continue to spread love and joy to all who need it.



If you know a deserving Diva simply click on the nomination form and let us know.

[suzan w]

Just want to say thank you for keeping this thread active! Although I have not used any of these services, it is great to know that they are out there, and that someone is willing to take the time to let us all know!!! YOU ROCK Paula!!!

[Paula O]

Thanks, Suzan! It's neat that there are so many non profit organizations out there seeking to encourage those battling cancer.

Here's another:
http://www.knittedknockers.org/

"Knitted Knockers are special handmade breast prosthesis for women who have undergone mastectomies or other procedures to the breast. Traditional breast prosthetics are usually expensive, heavy, sweaty and uncomfortable. They typically require special bras or camisoles with pockets and can’t be worn for weeks after surgery. Knitted Knockers on the other hand are soft, comfortable, beautiful and when placed in a regular bra they take the shape and feel of a real breast. Our special volunteer knitters provide these free to those requesting them. Knitted knockers can be adjusted to fill the gap for breasts that are uneven and easily adapted for those going through reconstruction by simply removing some of the stuffing."

[Paula O]

http://chemocessories.org/

(If you can't get through to the web site, try again another time. It looks like they are having technical difficulties right now but it's an active link and they recently sent me a lovely hat, pin, necklace, scarf, and earrings that coordinate well together)

Nonprofit Overview
Mission: Our mission is to help women with cancer hold onto their strength and sense of themselves during treatment. We create personalized sets of accessories, including jewelry, scarves and turbans, that are designed to lift spirits and remind each woman that treatment in no way diminishes the beautiful woman within.
Results: We have donated over 1100 sets to women in 37 states.
Target demographics: Women with Cancer
Direct beneficiaries per year: 380 Cancer Survivors
Geographic areas served: Los Angeles , South Bay and throughout the United States
Programs: Provides sets of scarves, turbans and jewelry to women going through Chemotherapy and hair loss.

[Paula O]

2017 Applications to attend a free Little Pink Houses of Hope Retreat are now OPEN!
http://www.littlepink.org/retreatapplication/

Our family was selected to attend a retreat during my first round of breast cancer several years ago and I have been a volunteer at three retreats since (also sooooo much fun!). A Little Pink Houses of Hope Retreat is a WONDERFUL opportunity!

https://vimeo.com/186509412

Retreat Schedule
2017 Retreat Locations and Dates


Sunday, April 23 to Saturday, April 29 – Carolina Beach, NC

Sunday, April 30 to Saturday, May 6 – St John, USVI (Couples only retreat)

Saturday, May 13 to Saturday, May 20 – Scottsdale, AZ

Sunday, May 14 to Saturday, May 20 – Hatteras Island, NC

Sunday, June 4 to Saturday, June 10 – Sedona, AZ

Sunday, June 18 to Saturday, June 24 – Key West, FL

Sunday, August 20 to Saturday, August 26 – Emerald Isle, NC

Sunday, August 20 to Saturday, August 26 – Gulf Shores, AL

Sunday, September 10 to Saturday, September 16 – Oak Island, NC

Saturday, September 23 to Friday, September 29 – Lake Tahoe, CA

Monday, September 25 to Sunday, October 1 Buxton, NC – (Couples only retreat)

Sunday, October 15 to Saturday, October 21 – Myrtle Beach, SC

Sunday, November 5 to Saturday, November 11 – New Smyrna, FL

December TBA – Southern CA

[Paula O]

The Cancer Card Xchange is a 501c3 tax-exempt charity.
CCX collects monetary and gift card donations and then distributes gift cards to verified cancer patients simply to brighten their day.

http://www.cancercardxchange.org/p/referrals.html


They give free gift cards to cancer patients in active treatment. They do run out periodically but right now is a good time to request one if you are interested.


Paula