When a person is diagnosed with cancer, it affects them plus their family. It can become overwhelming for everyone. Luckily, there is support for cancer patients and their families. There are many different types of cancers, leading to different kinds of treatment. Everyone has different needs depending on the diagnosis, treatment, and person’s reaction. Fortunately, various non-profits are available to help support cancer patients and their families.

Are there any meal programs for cancer patients?

Food is essential while going through cancer treatment. It is necessary to eat healthy. Specific dietary restrictions can apply depending on the type of treatment a person receives. At the same time, everything can be overwhelming, and cooking might not make the to-do list. Only some have a group of family and friends that can set up a meal train. Fortunately, there are meal programs for people fighting cancer.

For residents in the tri-valley area, Culinary Angels provides nutrient-rich meals and nutrition education to people fighting cancer and their caregivers. Culinary Angels delivers free meals to Livermore, Dublin, Pleasanton, San Ramon, and Danville residents. Anyone residing in Marin or Sonoma counties can contact the Ceres Project for meals. For any additional meal options, talk to your social worker.

Is there any emotional support or resources while fighting cancer?

Everyone is aware of the American Cancer Society, which is a great resource, but there are other non-profits, too, that can be helpful. Cancer Support Community has many services for cancer patients and their families. Services include

• Support groups for cancer patients and caregivers
• Educational programs
• Healthy lifestyle classes
• Decision support program
• Programs for school-aged children and teens
• Resource for programs in the East Bay
• Emergency financial assistance

Is there any practical support for anyone fighting cancer?

Bay Area Cancer Connections (BACC) connects people in the Bay Area to various resources for cancer patients. BACC started with supporting breast and ovarian cancer patients, but some of these resources can apply to other cancer patients too. If anyone is undergoing chemotherapy and interested in a wig, BACC can help you. If you want to know what financial resources are available, BACC can help you. Exercise is important, and BACC has resources for that too.

Non-profits help

Remember that all these resources are non-profits that rely on donations and volunteers. These non-profits would only be available with people helping. If you have the resources or the time, please donate to one of these non-profits.

Every cancer journey is different, but knowing there is support can help lift the burden while fighting the battle.

STAGES is here to educate people about what resources are available.