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In January of 1992, approximately 20 people
gathered at a local church to discuss the
possibility of forming a cancer support group.
In that meeting it was discussed how nice it
would be to form a group where cancer patients,
survivors and their family members could find
support from other people who understood what
they were going through.
To gauge the interest in the community, it was
decided to hold a program, sponsored by the
American Cancer Society, called "I Can Cope." A
series of meetings were held where a speaker
talked on the many areas of concern that can
face a family when one member is diagnosed with
cancer - from medical and financial to
emotional. At the end of each meeting, a cancer
survivor or family member shared their own
battle with cancer and how they coped. These
survivor talks offered inspiration to everyone
and continue to be a testament to the strength
of the human spirit. The program spanned across
eight weeks and was a big hit with as many as 40
to 50 people attending. These support meetings
are still being continued, presently on a
quarterly basis.
It was at that point it was realized a real need
had been stumbled upon, so it was decided to
officially form a support group under the name
Multi-County Cancer Support Network. The mission
was simple - to provide cancer patients and
survivors, their families and friends with
support ranging from emotional and educational
to financial. MCCSN has grown by leaps
and bounds since its beginning.
The organization sponsors an annual fundraiser,
a Walk-a-thon, which primarily funds all
services. These services, provided to patients
while undergoing treatments, are transportation,
to and from the provider - or monetary
assistance in lieu of, as well as financial
assistance with expenses such as utilities and
food. On loan at the MCCSN office and available
to everyone are a resource library, a variety of
wigs, caps, prostheses, wheelchairs, etc. The
office manager oversees all these services and
can make referrals for those wishing to speak
with someone with similar experiences. A monthly
newsletter to keep people updated and advised of
MCCSN’s services and happenings is prepared by
volunteers under the supervision of the office
manager and is available on this website and
through regular mail. To be put on the mailing
list and for additional Information, call the
office: 931-393-4443, 800-497-4322 or e-mail
mccsn@lighttube.net. |