American Cancer Society Foundation

I have been reaching out to thwm for nearly three months. I had ovarian cancer. I have emailed, callled, let messages, etc with NOT even an acknowledgement. I feel so all alone and just sometimes would rather die!

American Cancer Society is not publicly respected and they are not trustworthy because of their poor reputation and shams. All they are interested is to get your money. Here are just a couple of public record links about them:

http://naturalsociety.com/100-page-report-american-cancer-society-scam/

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/05/24/american-cancer-society--more-interested-in-wealth-than-health.aspx

My Name is Mrs Mariam O lee iam a widow suffering from cancer of the lungs, the doctors just informed me that i have just 1 month remaining, this is why i want to use this short time to share my last visions and the plans i have for this short period of time, my email i jegac3@yahoo.com do contact me so i can share my visions and last thoughts with you

Hi my name is Pamela Carter and i have breast cancer and i need any help that i can from you guys,my bills are almost over my head,i can not take it any more,please i need your help this is my email add.pam22dan@verizon.net and my phone number is 760-680-7917 also to anyone who may read this story if you can help me please feel free to do so thank you very much and you may pray for me also, i need help if my medical bills, S.O.S. and you do not need to give me money, i will send them to you to pay ,that's how bad i need the pubic,if you can't help then past it on to a friend please.

The American Cancer Society is a wonderful organization. Although they CANNOT provide direct financial assistance for medical bills at this time (some people contact the org regarding this need and feel that this should be offered), they are usually able to provide free wigs or wig vouchers, gas cards or transportation grants, mastectomy bras and breast prostheses, volunteer drivers to help patients get to treatment, support groups including Look Good, Feel Better, certain medical supplies, etc. through their Patient Service Centers and local offices. However, it's important to contact them directly to find out what specifically exists in a patient's area. Additional services may be available depending on which division a patient lives in. In addition to these services, ACS lodging programs exist in many areas of the country for those who have to travel far for medical treatment. ACS also has an Air Miles program for those who need help with the cost of a flight to medical treatment. Other nationwide services include a Health Insurance Information Service that can discuss health insurance options with patients who are underinsured, uninsured or in transition. They also offer a clinical trials matching service that can help patients locate clinical trials they may be able to participate in. Finally, they have cancer information specialists available 24/7 to answer cancer-related questions for patients. They can also find additional resources for patients if ACS cannot help with a need. Keep in mind that these are just the services that make available to patients. They also have a HUGE research grant program, a smoking cessation program and other early detection/outreach programs. I would highly recommend supporting them. Their financial allocation information can be found here: http://www.bbb.org/charity-reviews/national/cancer/american-cancer-society-in-atlanta-ga-186

Cancer survivors, thos still fighting it, those that have loved ones that have lost their battle, and those just do not love cancer. Please read tomorrow's Scranton Times- ACS (American Cancer Society) has turns its back on us by cancelling the Ball of Hope becuase it didn't turn out enough profits. It cleared $70,000 last year in the black and does not consider that enough. So they are refusing to do the ball. A reporter via 3 way calling did an interview with Kara Konyves & I on why is so desparately needed!! You know who gets hurt don't you- the kids & only the kids. rk This Ball of Hope held at the Scranton Cultural funds Camp can do as well as others-cancer camp for kids with cancer. Alot of those kids are not around now- but the joy they experienced lives on in the pictures the parents have from the camp. Faces of hope.

1 in 4 dollars collected to administrator salaries and fund raiser fees. ??????
Give to you local church or 501.

ACS raises thousands and thousands of dollars every year that are poured back into education, advocacy, and patient assistance.

Before Cancer: ACS provides lots of information on screenings and education of the kinds of cancer and treatment. They fund scientists worldwide to help find a cure. They also lobby around the country to pass laws such as smoke free air, insurance coverage, and aid for the poor.

Finding out: The ACS 24/7 hotline - 1800-227-2345 will help you understand your cancer, provide you with any information on resources and programs, and send you a Personal Health Manager to keep track of all your health providers, tests, appointments, medicines, bills, etc.

During Cancer: Road to Recovery is a program that gives patients rides to their appointments and treatments. Look Good Feel Better is a program that teaches patients about options for head ware if they desire (wraps, wigs, etc.) and teaches them how to use/wear their prosthetic. If you need assistance with pharmaceuticals they will talk with your pharmacy and insurance to try to work something out. If you need cash, they will help you find organizations that can hand you a check. If you need medical equipment, they will find an individual or business in your area who can give you what you need.

After Cancer: ACS gives you the opportunity to give back by being a mentor to someone who is going through what you have been through. They help you share your story to impact people. Whether that impact leads to a gift, changes a life, or gives someone hope, you know you've made a difference.

The staff is kind, hard working, and helpful. They operate on little to nothing, under 10% and usually under 5%.

The first story tells it all. A large national cancer charities raising over one billion dollars but not able to provide patient assistance. The remaining reviews told of the wonderful help through resources (referring cancer victims to other organizations) and pamphlets on cancer prevention and treatment. None of the reviews answer the problem of providing financial assistance to those victims who fall through the crack for those whom an educational pamphlet on prevention is too late.

My Reason to Relay My reason to Relay is to educate the community on what is and IS NOT being done for those inflicted with this devastating disease. When our daughter was diagnosed, we thought we could contact the organization that we had been affilitated and raised over $70,000 for over the past five years--The American Cancer Society Relay For Life. We thought there would be endless opportunities of support not only for us, our daughter and our family, but for others we met along the way traveling this terrible journey. We quickly discovered we were wrong. We tried staying in Hope Lodge...can't because our daughter is under 18. Tried for other services...refused. We were told directly by an American Cancer Society staff member, and this was repeated to us numerous times, that there were no services catering to the "young" cancer victim. The American Cancer Society told us that the services they provide are catered to the "older adult" and their "services include mostly prostate and breast cancer victims, because that is who we receive funding for." That certainly shed a different light on all of those young survivors walking the survivor lap and all of those youth teams participating in Relay. It also posed another question...."Where does the money go?" After raising over $70,000 as a FAMILY team for the Relay For Life, I still ponder that question. The only reason we have continued this year is to show our support to our daughter who, WITHOUT the help of Relay For Life and American Cancer Society, is a SURVIVOR of Stage 4B Hodgkin's Lymphoma. We were told that these issues would be brought before the Ohio Task Force and even on a local level. Guess what? Several months later, we still have not received any different information. We were "appeased" with "words" so that we would keep quiet during Relay For Life. Are these issues ever going to be addressed? Think about the "help" we have received. Think about the "help" any other family member/friend has received from the American Cancer Society. Other than a support of friends, which can be found in many, many, many other places, what services has your loved one received? Is your Relaying worth it? What are you REALLY doing for our local cancer victims? THINK ABOUT IT! Our Reason to Relay After five years as a family team, raising over $70,000 for the American Cancer Society Relay For Life, we found ourselves finding out first hand where the money goes... When we asked what services could be provided to us when our then 15 year old daughter was diagnosed with Stage 4B Hodgkin's Lymphoma, we were told, by the American Cancer Society, "none". Because Abbie was under 18, we weren't able to stay in Hope Lodge (paid for by your American Cancer Society Relay For Life dollars). We were also told by the American Cancer Society that their services catered to breast and prostate cancer because they get funding for those and they cater also to the "older patient". They realize that there are no services for youth and they will be "working on that." Flashback to early 2007 when my Aunt Arlene was diagnosed with lung cancer and was totally uninsured. Of course, I referred her to the American Cancer Society because I KNEW they would be able to help. Do you want to know what help she received? A list of websites she could check out to see if she was eligible through OTHER (NOT American Cancer Society) programs for assistance. There was nothing else the American Cancer Society could do to help. Oh, wait, they did offer a rickety old broken wheelchair. They also offered a couple other pieces of medical equipment, but with the shape the wheelchair was in, I would be afraid to use anything else received from them! So, we decided to give them ONE more chance...we were told no help for Aunt Arlene (age 66 at time of diagnosis, so she fit the American Cancer Society profile of 'older adult'). No help for Abbie because she was a 'youth'. Ok, so, giving the benefit of the doubt, one more chance....Dawn, my sister, was diagnosed with Stage 1 diffuse large B cell lymphoma (non-Hodgkins). She has 2 young children at home and is a single mom who has had to quit her job to endure at least 4 1/2 months of treatment. Because her long term disability is $56 too much per month, she can't receive any medical benefits from her employer or Ohio Medicaid. So, after one round of chemotherapy, with 5 more to go, she is told she has NO INSURANCE! So, one more try to the American Cancer Society. When we called them and explained the situation and asked what type of assistance the American Cancer Society could provide, we were told, "You can call the Patient Advocate Organization and see what assistance they can provide." I asked if they were affiliated with the American Cancer Society and was told they were NOT. I asked if there was any assistance the American Cancer Society could provide and was politely told there was nothing they could offer. However, their call center is open 24/7, seven days a week if we ever wanted to call back...I am not sure what we would call back for????? So, next time you decide to support a Relay fundraiser, think about it....what services has your loved one received from the American Cancer Society during their journey? Of all places we thought we could receive support, The American Cancer Society was it...WOW! We were shocked to find out how very WRONG that is!!! This year, all our efforts are in support of Abbie's fight and her HERO status as as SURVIVOR. Six rounds of chemo...ONE MILLION DOLLARS American Cancer Society assistance...Two hundred dollars in gas cards to keep us quiet (this is not typically given) Remission...PRICELESS!!!!

I am a registered nurse. I have been involved with Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society for several years. Every year, ACS helps my patients with their cancer care. They give my patients and their families help and hope. I am a team captain for the Rleay for Life. Murray, Ky. has the most amazing crew of people involved with this. You truly feel the love and concern for all patients and families with cancer. My father died of lung cancer and I know how important the ACS is to patients and families. I couldn't be more proud of being a part of the American Cancer Society.

The American Cancer Society and Relay for Life represent true HOPE for me. I have a HOPE that one day cancer will be eliminated and no one will ever have to experience the negative effects of this horrible disease. The words you have cancer will no longer be spoken. ACS and Relay for Life strive to create this world. I have worked with ACS and Relay for Life for over six years now. In those six years I have seen more and more preventative care as well as more resources available to those fighting this horrible disease. I am a teacher who, with the assistance of ACS, is teaching my students preventative care and where to get the resources they need. Teaching my students means teaching their parents and family members. I have students who come to me to find the resources they need to help their family. We are spreading the word about preventative care like mammograms, colorectal screenings, tobacco use, sunscreen, etc. I have had students come to me for assistance with family members about to lose their home because their cancer treatments are taking all the money they have – their house was saved thanks to their patient advocate’s assistance. One of my favorite stories is the one of the man who looked at one of the brochures we passed out and discovered his mole was similar to the picture of melanoma. He had it removed the same day he went to the doctor. This man went to the doctor because of one of one of the many brochures we were given by the ACS. My students are well educated about the many dangers of cancers. They are becoming more aware each year as to preventative care. I have true HOPE for the future of my students and their community. I have hope that all the preventative care and education we are providing our students, thanks to ACS, will continue to make a difference. I HOPE that one day cancer will be eliminated and no one will ever have to experience the negative effects of this horrible disease, but until that day comes I am grateful to the American Cancer Society and all their resources. I will continue to educate my students and HOPE that those lost to cancer, like my grandpa, will never be forgotten. I look forward to a day when the words you have cancer will no longer be spoken but, until that day comes I will continue to help those who face cancer so they are not alone. I will continue, with the help of ACS to raise as much money as I can to fight this horrible disease.

My Grandmother, Mary passed away from lung cancer January 20, 2000. It was the most devastating thing I've ever experienced in my life! I have to say any organization that is searching for a cure and sponsoring as many events as the ACS is a friend of mine! Anyone that needs advice/support, I can assure you ACS has a resource! Hold your head up, ACS is working round the clock for a cure...... We will get there! Stay positive and keep the faith!

My Aunt Iota passed away from ovarian cancer almost five years ago. She was a beautiful woman that had a smile that would warm your heart and light up your night! My aunt fought for five years before she lost her battle. I won’t ever forget the day that the hospital came in to her room and said the insurance company will no longer cover her stay there since she is terminal. They said she can stay for the night and we would have to make arrangements for her tomorrow. About 45 minutes later the hospital staff came in started to unhook her. We asked what they were doing and they told us she can’t stay any longer. Baffled we let them know that we were told she could stay until tomorrow so we can make arrangements for her at Hospice. They said the ambulance is outside waiting and they contacted Hospice to let them know she was on her way. We all were shocked and completely disturbed by their action. They treated my dying aunt with no respect. When the money ran out they just wanted to get rid of her like she was extra baggage. My aunt passed away a few weeks later. I visited her almost every day! The day before she died I told her, “I will be back tomorrow, I love you!” Aunt Iota really wasn’t responsive at this point, but while I was holding her hand, she squeezed mine, opened here eyes and said to me, “I love you and I will miss you.” I told her not to be silly that I would be back tomorrow. She knew what I didn’t know; she was going to be gone by the time I returned. I missed her passing by 15 minutes. When I walked into the room she laid there peacefully with the most beautiful smile on her face! She was happy again and the pain was gone. At that time I didn’t know much about ACS and how they can help. I began to work here in March of 2006. I learned that ACS provides rides back and fourth to treatment for patients, that there is the 800# that is available 24/7 for patients that have questions or need support and in advocacy they were fighting for the right of the patient. Trying to prevent what happened to my aunt from happening to others. I love my job here at ACS! No one should face cancer alone and we are here for our patients and caregivers! ACS is a wonderful organization that has so much to offer to patients and families! Thank you ACS for what you do!

I WAS FIRST TOUCHED BY THE DEATH OF A LOVED ONE IN 1978 FROM CANCER . I RECENTLY LOST MY BROTHER-LAW TO A FIFHT WITH CANCER . IN 2007 MY GRADSON AT THE AGE OF TWELVE WAS TOLD HE HAD BRAIN CANCER, AND THAT IS WHEN I DECIDED TO BECOME A VOLUNTEER FOR RELAY FOR LIFE IN LAGRANGE COUNTY , IN. IT HAS BEEN ONE OF THE BEST DECISIONS I HAVE MADE AS A VOLUNTEER IN MY LIFE TIME .IT IS NOT JUST WHAT WE DO BUT HOW WE APPLY OUR SELVES TO HELP AND TO SEE THE OUT COME OF IT ALL . TO WATCH THE SURVIVORS AT WORK WITH YOU AND THOSE THAT YOU HELP IS OVERWHELMING AND TO WORK SIDE BY SIDE WITH OTHERS THAT HAVE SUCH A PASSION TO FIGHT THIS BATTLE FOR A CURE . TO SEE A SMILING FACE OF A SURVIVOR AT A SPECIAL OCCASSION SUCH AS A DINNER OR BREAKFAST THAT IS GIVEN IN THEIR HONOR . THESE ARE THE SILENT HEART WARMER REWARDS TO ME . TO GIVE OF MYSELF AS MUCH AS I CAN TO HELP THIS CAUSE AND KNOWING THAT SOMEONE ELSE IS DOING THE SAME FOR MY GRANDSON AND MANY OTHER PEOPLE THAT SUFFER FROM CANCER .

I was first touched by cancer in 1992 when I was 14 years old my grandfather passed away being so young at the time I had no idea how many people have cancer, have survived cancer, have lost someone with cancer or have been caregivers of loved ones with cancer. As I reached adulthood it became more clear to me and then in 2008 I lost my mother-in-law and my mother was diagnosed. My poor 5 year old was dealing with the total loss of one grandma and the illness of another and I became my mother's primary caregiver my daughter asked what she could do to help the "people who are sick" SO I went to ACS and I signed up to be a Relay For Life Team Captain and my (now 6 year old) daughter is my "unofficial" co-captain. We are helping one step at a time and the actual 24 hour Relay event is one of the few times I had honestly say I felt every emotion all at once it's unexplainable to be there walking on the track with the survivors, the families, the other Relay teams become instant friends and I truly feel it's one of the few ways you can involve children and let them know that they are never too small to help someone else. The ACS has been so wonderful to my mother and myself, they have been patient and answered all our questions, they helped us with resources we did not even know were available from support groups and wigs to financial help and transportation. I always know I can call and get the help I need so I am glad I can give back to ACS.

Relay For Life has been a part of my life since 1998. My family has been touched by cancer many times and the American Cancer Society is always there to help us through. The training we receive as volunteers is top notch. The money raised for the American Cancer Society is well managed and used for so many people. I can't thank the American Cancer Society enough for all they do. The research funded by ACS saves lives every day. Thank you American Cancer Society.

This organization is truly a great non-profit. From its advocacy programs to its support for local events. Their grass roots organization is solid as a rock and serves well. Awareness, support, and advocacy are the strengths.

I've been involved as a volunteer for 10 years with the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life. By volunteering to raise money for research, education, programs and services, I've come to appreciate the Society for all that they can offer. I've seen first hand the joy in a patient's face when they can choose a wig for either free or very little cost due to the financial assistance through ACS. I've also experienced first hand the comforting voice and help from a person on the other end of the phone when I've called 1-800-ACS-2345. My aunt called that number her best friend for a while during the early stages of her diagnosis. I've been a volunteer on local, state and national levels. I sometimes feel like it's a full time job and my husband jokes that the only thing missing is a paycheck. But, honestly, if I were paid, I am afraid I wouldn't have the same desire and passion that I do each day.

My relationship to the society has primarily been through Relay for Life. It continually amazes me that so much is done for cancer patients and their families. Sometimes it is the "little" things that can cause much angst for the patient and their family, and the society does all it can to help not only with the big things like research, but the little things like transportation for treatments, skin care, wigs, etc.

When I was told I had uterine cancer all I could think of was "I have to call Marty" Marty. a friend of mine also lost her mother to cancer and now works for the American cancer socity in Fort Wayne In. She sent me literature and put me in touch with people who could help me in every way including lodging while away from home for surgury. I pray every day for a cure for this disease and thank all who help cheer us up through it.

My experience with ACS goes back 15 years. As a volunteer with fundraising events from Relay for Life to MSABC to Cattlebaron's Ball, I quickly learned what a truly caring organization they are. The training provided to me as a volunteer has helped me through the years to provide valuable information to those who hear the words, "you have cancer". When I hear this, I quickly offer up a card from ACS with resource phone #'s and offer to talk with these people about any and all services available to them. When a person feels alone and lost, the staff at ACS are there with heartfelt caring and concern. From those on the other end of the 800# to those in my local ACS office, we are fortunate to have these individuals out there. I was an outsider looking in for a long time, until my sister and mom were diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer at the same time. My ACS volunteer knowledge kicked in right away, after the shock had worn off. They both quickly registered and help was on the way! The Look Good Feel Better program was a boost to my sister's self esteem with the beautiful wigs furnished to her. The Road to Recovery program was there for my mom when I had to work and needed that extra hand. Not only the program, but the drivers compassionate nature made the experience better for my mom, and made me feel comforted to know that someone was helping her when I had obligations to fulfill as well. But most of all, the friendship and support that I was given through ACS staff and other volunteers such as myself will be with me forever. My friends, when asked why they continue to Relay or participate in MSABC will always look at me and say, "because she makes me". But they won't ever quit.... they won't ever give up.... I know this because as I look to the heavens and I hear the voices of my mom and sister who lost their battles, I know they are right beside me listening and ready to give more and more every year! This organization has brought so many lives together. When you see the faces of the survivors at the Relay events, you see the thanks in their eyes, the blessings they send out to everyone standing along that track who is clapping as they pass by. When you go to treatment either yourself or with a loved one, you see that smiling face of your "Road" driver, ready to bring you a glass of water or share some funny stories with you as your body fights the battle. When you have victories, such as a shrinking tumor, your ACS staff partners and volunteers will celebrate with you every step of the way. There may be many great cancer supporting organizations out there, but I don't think there are any that can compare to what the American Cancer Society does each year to make things better. We fight for legislation through Advocacy efforts in Washington, DC at Celebration on the Hill; what a wonderful and impressive event! As I attended this, I was even more thankful that I found this organization who does so much! When I traveled locally to Tallahassee to fight for "Pass the Buck", and previously Amendment 6, I was again reminded of the training and support that ACS provides us as volunteers to MAKE THINGS HAPPEN! I could go on, and I will if you let me, but know that this organization is the best there is! Bless all of them for what they have accomplished and I will continue to help support their mission in an effort to rid us all of this disease. Fighting Cancer Together, Pat Holtman

I have been volunteering with the American Cancer Society for about 10 years now. I first started volunteering for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer as part of my High School community service club. Then, in college, I heard about Relay For Life. I began as a participant, then committee member, and then team captain for this wonderful event. My team, consisting of family & friends, has been participating in Relay for 5 years now and we will continue until the word "cancer" no longer has meaning.

I have been involved with the ACS and their signature event for 10 years. As a 2 time Cancer survivor, I have been touched in more ways than one. As a survivor, I have found that there are many resources available to myself and families when they are first diagnosed with cancer as well as continuing forward after remission or cure through the ACS. I have also benefited from being involved and helping others become more aware of what is available to them. As a team captain, I was able to encourage friends and family to become better educated about Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society as well as raising funds to bring awareness to the ACS and cancer research. As a Committee, I have enjoyed being more involved in the process of helping the teams and participants enjoy the Relay for Life, get the most out of the event and learn more about the ACS and it's programs. As a new tri-chair of our local event, the satisfaction will continue with helping others learn what the ACS is all about and what programs they have to offer cancer survivors, caregivers and our general community. Nothing is more touching than being involved with the Relay for Life and sharing the celebration of our cancer survivors during the survivor walk, celebrating with the caregivers and than being moved during the luminary service when you realize how many people and families have been touched somehow by cancer and the American Cancer Society's signature event Relay for Life.

I am a 5-year Breast Cancer survivor. I have been involved with the American Cancer Society as a volunteer for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and also as a team captain and Committee Chair (Survivor Chair) for 5 years. The ACS has been a huge blessing in my life. I benefited first hand from their program "Look Better - Feel Good" when I was going through chemo and losing my hair. This program really helped my self image during this difficult period of time in my life. The American Cancer Society also has various programs to help cancer patients in obtaining rides to their chemo treatments and radiation treatments which is a god send! God Bless the American Cancer Society, its dedicated and hard working staff members and all the volunteers. Together we can fight back and find a cure for cancer!

1-800-227-2345. That is a phone number that is just as important to us as 911. The American Cancer Society. Our lifeline to knowledge and hope. My father and three uncles died of lung cancer. My grandmother had breast cancer. A friend of mine had skin cancer, another friend has lymphoma. I had ovarian and cervical cancer. But no cancer has affected me more than what has attacked my little sister. Brain cancer. My baby sister has been fighting this disease for over 15 years. She lost her job, lost her medical insurance. Lost her ability to financially support herself. Lost her ability to drive, lost her car. Lost her home, lost her freedom, lost a lot of her friends. She had a second surgery in Feb. 2008. After she finally started to wake, she had a lot of difficulty recuperating. There were so many things to take care of. So many decisions to be made. Where do we start? What was going to happen next? Our mother, father and I were at the hospital and were strangers in town. We knew no one. How could we make decisions; we all lived in different states? As a Warren Township Relay for Life participant for the past few years, I knew exactly where to start. We called 1-800-ACS-2345. Carolyn was the friendly voice on the other end of the line. She made us feel welcome; she did not rush us off of the phone. She began by letting us know that we were not alone and that they were there to help us in any way they possibly could. She guaranteed that we would not have to go through any more confusion or apprehension on our own. She began by getting our name and address so that she could send us the information we needed quickly. She then started to help us assess our resources and needs. She went step by step explaining each and every detail of an organization that was referred to us. She gave us phone numbers, addresses, websites, emails, contact names, what they could provide us, hours of operations so that we could make educated decisions on what was needed. Carolyn provided us with information on financial assistance for her rent and the outstanding medical bills that were mounting daily. Carolyn provided information for obtaining medical supplies, support groups, transportation for therapy, volunteer pilots providing transportation to and from Washington, DC at the National Cancer Institute. She provided us with numerous resources starting with long-distance caregivers to a foundation founded for my sister’s specific type of cancer, the National Brain Tumor Foundation. She had information on housing for the family while we stayed in Charlotte, at no cost to us. She gave us information on how to find a case manager to help organize all of her doctor appointments and treatments. How to schedule meals on wheels, pharmacy supplies delivered to your home, visiting nurse, housekeepers, insurance representatives, financial attorney to ward off the bill collectors. How to enlist volunteers to help, pre-plan for schedules and supplies, cooking, cleaning, bathing, communicating with your health care team and even our local bank. So many items that never entered our mind but we DID need. We felt such a relief that we had a game plan and could actually see things falling into place with organizing, thus taking the load off of my sister so that she could focus on herself and getting better. I am happy to say that my sister has moved to an apartment in Tennessee near our mother. She is able to cook simple meals and clean. She still has a small issue with her balance but that is improving. Her great personality is coming back and I so look forward to razzing my little sister again! Her short term memory has its ups and downs but the doctors have given us encouragement. I’m so proud of her and I love her so much! It’s amazing how far she has come in such a short time. So if any volunteer for the Relay for Life or employee of the American Cancer Society questions if they are doing the right thing, you don’t think you can spare the $20 right now to donate, think again. Please reconsider. The lives you change and affect, may be your own. Or maybe someone you will never meet in your lifetime. Either way, by the help you provided either monetarily or volunteer wise to the American Cancer Society, WE now have hope that tomorrow is going to be better than today.

I have been involved with the American Cancer Society for the last four years through Relay for Life. I have been so impressed with the services offered to cancer patients and their families through this organization. They help to make this terrrible disease a little easier to live with and are there to support the family if the cancer patient does not survive. Relay for Life is only a small part of the American Cancer Society but makes a huge impact on people. The Cancer Society provides many services to cancer patients along with a 24 hour hot line to help with any questions they might have. Also provides programs for prevention of cancer. My family supports The American Society to the fullest.

I have been a volunteer with ACS for over 5 years. They are one of the most caring organizations I have ever been involved with. Their spirit of giving and helping others and the community is unparalled. Every single staff member I have had the pleasure to work with has displayed such a passion for the fight against cancer. They are a true inspiration to me and it is why I have become more involved in the fight against cancer, and will remain passionate to find a cure in my lifetime.

I am a 11 year volunteer with the American Cancer Society and have been a relayer for 10 years. This has been a wonderful experience for me and has helped fulfill my need to help other people. This organization has so much to offer volunteers, cancer survivors and their families, education for businesses and their employees. I have volunteered in many of the different projects that this organization has to offer. I leave with such a great feeling knowing that what I have shared with others will make their life a little better and hopefully longer. I have never volunteered for any organization that I have enjoyed as much as American Cancer Society.

The ACS is staff led and volunteer fueled. The training, motivation, drive for results, and passion for the cause is second to none from the top staffers to the lowest volunteer. My involvement with Relay For Life has become my life's passion. I believe we will find a cure for cancer in my lifetime. The ACS will be the decisive leader as we accomplish this goal!

American Cancer Society is a national nonprofit organization that FIGHTS BACK against cancer through research, education, advocacy, and patient services. Funding for this organization is raise through local communities events such as: Relay For Life, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer (MSABC - 5K Walk/Run), Tropical Gala, and Cattle Barons' Ball. Each event is unique in that it offers a variety of ways to support ACS, depending on your preferance of venue. Whether its a night out, dressed up to enjoy auctions and entertainment, or a morning run/walk in your favorite workout clothes, or maybe even an over-night camping event to show your support through onsite fundraising...all are ways to support ACS's mission and helps fund the fight against cancer. I am a local Community Representative and I oversee 4 Relay For Life events (Altamonte Springs, Winter Springs, Geneva/Chuluota, and East Orange). Everyday, I experience the effects of cancer. Sometimes its through stories volunteers tell me, other times its watching as a patient visits our gift room. Through these experiences I have learned that we have to fight back. In every story told or gift room vist, there's always a gift of hope that is present. That hope is what ACS offers to its community. Its sad when I see a woman walking in with a scarf on her head because chemo has cause her to loose her hair, I can see the insecurity and embarrasment in her eyes as she has as she checks in to visit the room. ACS offer hope in providing wigs at no charge. It may not free her from cancer, but it does give her hope in self confidence and reassurance in being able to feel good. Cancer may cause many challenges to the physical body, but one challenge it should never cause is insecurity and embarassment. ACS has defeated cancers emotional challenge through its gifts and serivices. I've heard stories of men traveling far away for treatment and fearing not being able to make bills because of the financial stress trying to juggle daily home and travel expenses. ACS offer programs to financially support families dealing with these issues. These are very real issues that happen everyday. ACS gives hope in lodging at no charge through our Hope Lodges to decrease the amount of time and travel for patients in treatment. Road to Recovery provides local rides to and from appointments to those who cannot drive themselves or have no means of transportation. Gas cards can also be given through this program for those who have transportation, but financially cannot afford the constant trips of hospital and doctors visits. American Cancer Society gives hope and hope is while I pride myself as an employee and as a volunteer of this oraganization and its mission. Get involved with your local American Cancer Society...hope is the answer and for anyone hope can be given or received. 1-800-ACS-2345 www.cancer.org

I have volunteered with the ACS for 3 years via Relay for Life. I have also had experience with ACS as a caregiver of a loved one who passed away from cancer. To see the things that ACS does to commemorate those who have survived, remember those who have passed, and to give support to those who are fighting cancer never fails to move me to tears. Absolutely beautiful, and the success of Relay for Life is proof. On the downside, you have to remember that a non-profit is still a business. While I may not agree 100% with actions taken by our local ACS branch, they do have to operate lean and mean just like every other business. Sometimes it's difficult to separate.

The American Cancer Society gave me hope when I needed it most. I am a cancer survivor. The programs the ACS offers has helped many of my neighbors. One neighbor is a driver for the road to recovery program, it provides rides to treatments for cancer patients that have no way to get there. The ACS helped my good friend deal with her loss of her mother, she is giving back by leading up her local Look Good Feel Better progrom for breast cancer patients. If you've ever had a mammogram or a PSA test done-you can thank the ACS for funding that research. I have only great things to say about this non profit organization. I'm very proud to be part of such a dyanmic and caring group of staff and volunteers. Keep up the great work...and lets hope one day we put ACS out of business by finding a cure.

Cancer touches us all. It seems to be the great equalizer. It is not prejudice. It matters not what is in your bank account, if you go to church,if you are ten or eighty. Twenty years ago our nephew lost his long hard battle. He was 12. Today, because of research, the survival rate of his cancer is 80%. The lives, the families, the communities will not be suffering from the loss. I envy them and I applaud the dedicated people who walk, who contribute, and who work on new ways to help prevent cancer, in all of it's henious forms.

I have been both a volunteer for the Amerinca Cancer Society and have used the services of the ACS when I was diagnosed with cancer. As a volunteer, I found that the American Cancer Society offers opportunities to match and utilize your interests and abilities in the Fight Against Cancer. The possibilities to participate are almost unlimited. The Americna Cance Society is also a good steward fo the funds received, with the large majority of the funds raised going to programs to benefit cancer patients and to prevent cancer.

The American Cancer Society has helped my family in so many ways. It has also given us an opportunity to help fight cancer as volunteers and. The medicines developed by the research of this amazing organization have saved my uncle's life. Their different programs for cancer patients and their families have helped millions. I have participated in their Relay for Life event for four years. I love this event because it gives me a way to celebrate the survivors in my family, remember the ones I've lost to cancer and fight back against the disease. The American Cancer Society has given me the chance to take part in something that gives hope to millions and saves lives and I truly can't thank them enough for all they have done.

I have been a volunteer for the American Cancer Society for 8 years. It is great to be part of such an amazing organization that values lives and is working for a better tomorrow.

I was involved with the Relay For Life for 6 years before my 13 year old daughter was diagnosed with cancer in 2004. While she was in treatment I kept a website to keep people informed. Here is an entry from 2004: Tuesday, September 28, 2004 9:30 AM CDT Sat. Sept. 25: Nausea's ugly brother, mouth sores, appeared in the middle of the night. She was in crying, screaming pain. It was awful. Thank the Lord for continuous drip pain medication. It almost helps relieve the pain. It won't help with the open sores. Mostly the pain med and the anitmedics help her sleep and then she's not crying in pain. She can't talk, open her mouth more than a slit or even swallow her own spit. It hurts her to cry. I hate the mouth sores more than the nausea. Let me explain the mouth sore thing. The chemo drugs kill the fast growing cancer cells, but since they can't distinguish between the bad (cancer) and good fast growing cells they kill them all. That's why their hair falls out too. The cells inside your mouth, throat, and gut area are all fast growing. Three of her chemo drugs cause mouth sores plus in the doses she's getting it was pretty much a sure thing. There isn't much they can do. She swabs her mouth with a gel to try to prevent the sores from getting infected and swishes a mouthwash with Benadryl and Lidocane. She hates it and it hurts, but she's a good patient and she does what she's supposed to do. She just keeps on enduring. I'm going to hop up on my soapbox: Having helped with the Relay For Life and the American Cancer Society I thought the research had come a long way (and it has) and bragged about how much better treatments are today (and they are). But, I am now the mother of a 13 year old cancer patient and I've changed my goal: Cancer just needs to be eliminated! There is never a good age to get cancer and as I found out (I thought I already knew, but I didn't really) cancer can happen to anyone at any age. We need to keep funding the research until they can determine who has cells that are going to mutate into cancer and provide a way to prevent it. I am so grateful they know how to cure Hannah's cancer, but the process is beyond what I ever imagined. I am now 100% behind the ACS goal to eradicate cancer. Just wait until the Relay For Life comes around again. You'll be hearing from me. Okay, I'm off my soapbox. Thanks for listening. She endured 7 more months of chemo only to have her cancer return 2 months later. There was no proven treatment available and she had a less than 20% chance of survival so she was enrolled in a clinical trial for the drug Rituxan. This is one of the drugs that helped save her life! It kept her cancer at bay during an infection when she couldn't receive traditional chemo. This drug was funded by the Relay For Life! Relay For Life really does save live! I know because my daughter is alive to tell her story.

American Cancer Society Relay for Life is a great way to fight back against cancer and remember the people it takes away from us. My grandpa died when I was only 2, but I still have memories of him, and always wished that I would have had more memories of my grandpa. Through Relay for Life, I have been able to relive those memories, and help fund research that could possibly prevent my loved ones to lose the fight against cancer as my grandpa did. Getting involved as a high school student has been life changing. I want to continue to fight back against this terrible disease. American Cancer Society makes that possible!

As a mom, who lost her eldest son Douglas, at age 17 to Ewing's Sarcoma, I needed a place to work through my grief. I found it with the American Cancer Society (ACS). My first ACS experience was as a volunteer leader with the Relay For Life in my community. This opportunity led to volunteer leadership at the New England level, an opportunity to exercise my teacher training skills when I joined the National Training Team. As a member of this team, I have traveled to Dublin, Ireland and many places in the U.S. to share information on how to make Relay For Life more successful and how we ALL can make a difference in the Fight against cancer. I'm also a member of the Connecticut Advocacy team, traveling to meet with legislators in Washington, D.C. and my state capitol in Hartford, CT. I am now a mentor to local Relays. I focus on being sure that people know that through their participation with the Relay For Life, that they are a valued member of the American Cancer Society -- and that they are helping people they may never meet to get well, stay well, find cures and fight back!!! There aren't many organizations that you can be a part of that have this level of impact!! I Relay for Douglas and the many others I have met in my journey in fighting back against Cancer.

I have been an American Cancer Society Volunteer for 13 years. It is an organization that truly values its volunteers. ACS gives us the information and skills that we need to fight this deadly disease. They honor us and support us.

The first time I saw all of those survivors on the track I wept. What an awe inspiring time I had that night as I walked around the track for the first time as a survivor. Each year the sea of purple grows and grows because of the research and programs that this great organization provides!!!

Cancer affects everybody. The American Cancer Society not only communicates this message in their education and advocacy efforts, but also illustrates this message through their diversity of volunteers and their diversity of volunteer positions. I have worked with high school students, business professionals, and retirees that have all come together in solidarity to fight against cancer and are equally as passionate about the cause. There is a range of ways to get involved in terms of time commitment and variation of activities such as setting up for events, writing thank you cards, driving cancer patients to treatments, or training new volunteers about the American Cancer Society's mission.

Great time for a great cause. When else could we camp out overnight in beautiful downtown Plymouth? Ir really was a fun time as well as constructive.

I feel the American Cancer Society should receive all awards possilby given for being the philanthropists of fighting cancer, cancer research and all things related to end this horrible disease.

The American Cancer Society helps bring local communities together in an effort to give people a way to "Celebrate, Remember, and Fight Back" against cancer. At Relay For Life events across the country, ACS provides information to raise cancer awareness and funds for cancer research. Participants and visitors find a place they can get answers about all types of cancer, celebrate their survivorship or that of a friend or family member, remember a lost loved one in a safe environment, and even learn about ways to fight back against this terrible disease. For my own personal involvement, ACS and the Relay For Life in my community gave me a way to honor the memory of my dad who passed away from lymphomia when I was just 15 years old. This past year, it helped our community grieve the loss of a beloved teacher and friend. I have made life-long friends from my work with ACS and Relay For Life, and it gives me a safe outlet for the emotional rollercoaster that cancer can become. It is such an amazing organization, and I feel so very lucky and empowered to help the ACS fight the battle against cancer.

18 years ago when I was diagnosed with cancer I did not know about the American Cancer Society. As a cancer survivor I became familiar with the Society, first through Relay For Life and then a quality of life program, Road To Recovery. Becoming a volunteer with the American Cancer Society has really completed me. It has helped me to give back, but more than that, I have experienced so much through my cancer experience. The American Cancer Society assists everyone who has cancer, not just certain cancer types, ethnic backgrounds or genders. Anyone who is diagnosed with any cancer can receive life saving information from the Society. Quality of Life programs are available in every community. And in every community someone is celebrating another birthday because of life-saving research funded by ACS. Through the advocacy efforts of the American Cancer Society and their sister organization, ACS CAN, we are receiving life-saving early detection programs and assuring that our lawmakers are making cancer a top-national priority. American Cancer Society is a non-profit organization that really is in the business to save lives, help people celebrate more birthdays and allows caregivers to remember the lives lost to this horrible disease.

I have never been involved with an organization that affects so many people in so many ways. Thru Relay I have had the fortune to meet some truely amazing people who have been touched by cancer and know first hand how much the American Cancer SOciety does. The indivudals who are part of this orgaization form a family and have the biggests hearts Ive ever seen.

The American Cancer Society IS the place to turn when you are diagnosed with cancer. They have so many services available to not only the cancer patients but also their family and friends. They work hard to educate people with all the many tests to detect cancer early. They devote millions of dollars to research so that a CURE will be found. The American Cancer Society advocates with our legislators for more funding for cancer research. They are a full service organization there to help EVERYONE. I am a beneficiary of the American Cancer Society since they pioneered the pap smear that found my cancer early!! I owe them my life!!!!! And I will volunteer for life!!!!

The American Cancer Society provided the answer to my question, "What can I do? What can one middle-age cancer survivor do to STOP this disease?" The American Cancer Society gave me 14 birthdays I wouldn't have enjoyed otherwise; gave me a mission of my own in the Relay For Life of Texas County; gave me a voice in the Heroes of Hope: Profiles of Courage program and as a Celebration on the Hill Ambassador; gave me confidence because I see for myself how frugal the organization is with donations; and in short, gave me the chance to hand my son a future where cancer is not a scary word.

My commitment to the American Cancer Society has spanned nearly 3 decades. Over that time, remarkable advancements have been made that were a direct result of the work of the American Cancer Society and it's thousands of volunteers. Advances like more lives saved because of better cancer fighting drugs and early detection of cancers. More children are surviving cancer because of better treatments developed through ACS funded research. More people live in smokefree cities and work in smokefree worksites because of the Society's advocacy efforts and the volunteers who tirelessly devote their time to clearing the air. Through research, advocacy, patient services and education the American Cancer Society is helping people live longer and more healthy lives. When my grandmother died from breast cancer in the early '80's, there was little help for her. Now, because of the American Cancer Society, people have the help, support and reassurance that the ACS is there, fighting for them and helping them get better. I'm an ACS lifer!

When my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer last May, I turned to the American Cancer Society. I found information regarding her specific type of cancer on their web site, cancer.org, and from their 800 number. When we arrived at her oncology appointment at the Cleveland Clinic, I was armed with the information and right questions to ask her doctor. After this first appointment at the Cleveland Clinic, I visited their cancer resource room. More than 90 percent of the brochures and pamphlets were published by the American Cancer Society. This May, one year after her diagnosis, we celebrated my mom being cancer free at our local American Cancer Society's Relay For Life. As a volunteer for my local Relay, it was overwhelming for me to see my mother "stand up" and walk as a survivor. And it gave my mom great comfort to be surrounded by other people who knew and understood her battle with cancer! I have heard many other stories that are similiar to my experience. There are no other nonprofit cancer organizations that offer the patient services, research, education and advocacy that the American Cancer Society provides. But the most amazing gift that the American Cancer Society provides is HOPE! Just ask my mom!

It is a blessing to volunteer for such an organization as the American Cancer Society. The society gives you all the resources you need to be successful, including the knowledge to understan why we do what we do. The work of the American Cancer Society benefits everyone. I am grateful to make a difference.