In the 34 years since Beckstrand Cancer Foundation was initiated, science has taken enormous steps in the fight against cancer. But, as many of us know firsthand, the destructive power of the disease continues to invade the lives of thousands each year – arriving without warning, exposing physical frailty and human vulnerability; stripping men, women and children of their defenses, and uncovering reliance on friends and family, on community, and on the goodness of humanity as a whole. In fact, in 2008 it is estimated that nearly 1.4 million new cases will be diagnosed – driving home the fact that our work is far from over.

And although science is making headway against some forms of cancer, patients remain faced with an all-consuming fight against a disease where radiation and chemotherapy turn the body into a battlefield, altering patients’ abilities to function on almost every physical and psychological level. Cancer does not limit its ravages to the body, but spreads throughout every part of a human life. For many undergoing treatment, work is out of the question and income ceases. Without a paycheck, an individual or family must turn to savings, friends, family, retirement accounts, and loans to survive. Some are able to weather the storm. Others find their bills piling up and cannot see how they are going to pay for the next radiation treatment.

Welcome to Beckstrand Cancer Foundation

Every day the staff and volunteers at Beckstrand Cancer Foundation reach out and touch the lives of these patients with a unique combination of financial assistance and patient advocacy. Through referrals from oncologists or social service providers, we can provide almost immediate assistance to serve as a link between the temporary situation of distress and a long-term solution. By making crucial payments, intervening with debtors, and advocating on a patient’s behalf, we are committed to ensuring that the focus remains on treatment and recovery rather than how to keep a roof over their heads, put food on the table, and keep a family hopeful, supportive and together.

It is our vision to improve and enhance the quality of life for cancer patients and their families – a vision we extend to you. We invite you to join us in making sure that all patients can battle cancer with hope, dignity and the simple freedom to engage fully in their healing process.

Lil Spitzer : Executive Director