The American Cancer Society. Great organization, right? Does lots for people battling cancer? It does, indeed. Perhaps more than you realize, especially in Hawaii Pacific, where ACS provided 13,771 services to 3,800 cancer patients in 2012. Let’s get to a
The American Cancer Society.
Great organization, right? Does lots for people battling cancer? It does, indeed. Perhaps more than you realize, especially in Hawaii Pacific, where ACS provided 13,771 services to 3,800 cancer patients in 2012.
Let’s get to a few more numbers to paint this picture and explain why we should support ACS. And please remember, that behind these numbers are the faces of men, women, boys and girls who call Hawaii Pacific home.
• Ground transportation to treatment was provided 2,472 times to 390 patients through volunteer drivers, hand-van coupons, cab rides and bus passes.
• 427 patients were provided with 1,158 segments of air transportation to receive treatment not available where they live.
• 1,071 gas cards were given to families to help ensure they got to their doctor and treatment appointments.
• 309 wigs were provided for women losing their hair due to cancer treatment.
• 214 patients attended a Look Good … Feel Better class to learn how to deal with side effects from treatments using beauty techniques.
• 75 women were helped by Reach to Recovery, a one-to-one recovery support system for those diagnosed with breast cancer.
• 75 children and families took advantage at one of the three camps offered to those dealing with cancer.
OK. It’s clear ACS makes a difference in Hawaii, which leads to the importance of the success of the sixth annual Hoedown For Hope, a gala to benefit ACS. It’s set for 5-10:30 p.m. Saturday at Kilohana Plantation. Highlights include music by Willie K, dancing, auctions, games and dinner.
We should point out for sports fans that 2013 World Series Champion baseball player Shane Victorino of the Boston Red Sox has donated baseball memorabilia that will be auctioned away to the highest bidder.
Another highlight, doctor Robert S. Weiner will be recognized as the recipient of this year’s Hope Award for his care for patients.
The American Cancer Society hopes to raise $50,000 to help fund cancer-related programs both nationally and in Kauai’s community.
The focus for this year is to continue assistance for patients on Kauai with airfare for radiation treatment and other medical needs and procedures not available on Kauai, raise money for Hope Lodge, as well as further cancer research.
This year’s Hoedown is looking like it may be the best yet.
“We are so fortunate to have so many local businesses that lend their support to the well-being of Kauai’s Community through our event,” said Hoedown For Hope co-chair Laura Lee.
Kudos to the co-chairs Katie Gallo and Yvette Sahut, as well as executive advisory board members, Michelle Emura, Lani Yukimura and Lili Bryan-Conant for their time and talents to this important fundraiser.
We encourage those who can, to attend and support ACS and its efforts. The doors open at 5 p.m. for general admission. Tickets are $125 per person.
Please remember, there are many faces behind all those numbers. And those faces are relying on us to help them stay strong and defeat cancer.
