Why Participate
The Unified Group Services Run/Walk for Cancer benefitting the Ascension St. Vincent Anderson Foundation will raise funds to support the oncology patient navigator program and purchase needed equipment upgrades at the at Ascension St. Vincent Anderson Cancer Center.
Oncology Patient Navigators
Ascension St. Vincent Anderson Cancer Center Oncology Patient Navigators, Saralyn Burris and Angel Lyons witness first hand the impact of Foundation donor support. Saralyn said, "I became an oncology navigator because cancer patients need someone advocating on their behalf. During my time at the Cancer Center, I learned that Foundation donors were responsible for purchasing our state-of-the-art radiation equipment, art therapy cart and provided operational support to the oncology navigation program. It gives me great confidence knowing that my community is working alongside me as I help others and it's…all because of generous donors like you!"
Oncology Patient Navigators, Angel Lyons (left) and Saralyn Burris (right)
All proceeds raised by participants and sponsors will benefit patients and their families of the Cancer Center. Oncology patient navigators are by patients’ side throughout their cancer journey - from initial diagnosis, through active treatment, and into survivorship. Each journey is unique and different, yet so important. Saralyn added, "As a patient navigator, I am committed to helping our patients in all ways possible - whether it be insurance or transportation assistance, coordination of care between providers, addressing emotional concerns, or simply being a listening ear."
Renovations and Patient Transportation
The cancer journey feels a little brighter these days for patients in the remodeled Ascension St. Vincent Anderson Cancer Center. Thanks to past participants of Ascension St. Vincent Anderson Foundation Cancer Challenge, $73,000 was invested to update the patient access areas. The new calming environment reflects the state-of-the-art care provided in this special facility.
The rising costs of gas prices and reliable transportation make getting to and from cancer treatments impossible for some. The patient transport van purchased with event proceeds, eliminates transportation obstacles when battling cancer.
State-of-the-Art Technology and Art Therapy
A new linear accelerator provides the newest technology close to home. It reduces the number of radiation treatments and targets tumors with pinpoint accuracy - saving surrounding tissue. Communications software was purchased for the linear accelerator from event proceeds.
Art supplies for the art therapy cart were purchased from the generous donations of event sponsors and participants. Art therapy effectively supports personal and relational treatment goals, while allowing patients a distraction during their treatment.
