Medford, Ore (08/24/06) – In recent years scientific research has made incredible discoveries in the treatment of cancer. That’s one reason why the American Cancer Society (ACS) and Providence Medford Medical Center (PMMC) are joining forces to create the Cancer Resource Center. The Center is currently recruiting volunteers to help fulfill its mission to guide cancer patients, caregivers, and family members through the journey of cancer treatment and care. Volunteers at the Cancer Resource Center will also be a source of information about early detection and prevention. The American Cancer Society Cancer Resource Center is the first of its kind to open in southern Oregon. It will be located inside Providence Cancer Center. “This will be a user-friendly library for patients and the community,” says Marna Bateman, Director of Cancer Services at Providence. “Partnering with ACS allows us to provide up-to-date information, materials and online search capabilities with the help of a trained volunteer.” Highly trained volunteers will be the face of the Cancer Resource Center. Volunteers will be trained to navigate American Cancer Society’s web-based information databases. They will also offer patients information about American Cancer Society support and education programs, and other community resources. “Perhaps the most important thing they will learn during the training is how to listen to the questions, concerns, and fears of the patients,” says Joan Haukom, American Cancer Society Quality of Life Manager. Many of the patients seeking information will be newly diagnosed. “That’s why this center is so important, you have the opportunity to give strength and encouragement to cancer patients,” says Haukom. Rod Rollins is a volunteer and coordinator for the American Cancer Society Look Good Feel Better program, which offers makeup and hair solutions to women undergoing cancer treatment. “Volunteering for Look Good Feel Better gives me satisfaction because I am able to help patients rebuild self esteem,” says Rollins, who also plans to volunteer at the Cancer Resource Center. “It will give me the opportunity to tell patients about Look Good Feel Better and all the other cancer support programs available to them. Volunteers must complete a background check, a two-day training program covering specific job details and patient support programs, as well as a volunteer orientation at PMMC. The training session is September 28 and 29. For more information or to register, contact Joan Haukom at 779-6092. Volunteers are asked to commit to a four-hour shift once a week. (Back to top)
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