What We Do
Why we are unique…
Monies raised by Braz™ do not fund research, but directly support breast cancer patients through the Massel-Cruickshank Breast Cancer Patient Assistance Fund by way of the London Regional Cancer Program Patient Assistance Program.
This includes but is not limited to:
- child care
- anti-pain and nausea medication not covered by insurance
- taxi fares
- parking
- wigs
- prostheses and bras
- palliative care
Anything that improves the quality of life of the individual with breast cancer will be given consideration.
How to Access funds…
In partnership with the London Health Sciences Foundation (LHSF) and with the efforts of Supportive Care at the London Regional Cancer Program, the frontline Massel-Cruickshank Breast Cancer Patient Assistance Fund provides short term financial assistance for breast cancer patients in need.
Braz™ would like to help you! Download the Program Application now AND/OR contact Supportive Care, London Regional Cancer Program at 519-685-8622. All names and medical records are kept confidential and recipients remain anonymous.
Why is this important…
It is estimated that more than 22,000 women in Canada will be diagnosed with breast cancer each year. For a sizable minority of cancer patients the burden of out-of-pocket costs is significant or unmanageable, even in Ontario where much of the care falls within the public funding envelope. A survey of cancer survivors attending a clinic in Ontario found that the average out-of-pocket costs for their care were $213 per month. Some patients may forego treatments or therapies because of cost. It is common for these unexpected expenses to occur just at the time employment income is lost. Therefore, it often falls on family members to help with household and personal support tasks normally undertaken by the patient resulting in further financial burden on the family.
Who we help…
Our fund serves a population of 1.5 million people in the catchment area of the London Regional Cancer Program (LRCP). This includes the Southwestern Ontario Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) and the eastern portion of the Erie St. Clair LHIN.
