Support During Treatment

For many patients who are on the journey of breast cancer treatment, it can be helpful to learn from others who are experiencing the same sorts of challenges or who have successfully overcome those challenges. We help our patients connect with others through the following groups:

• Imerman Angels: This program provides personalized connections that enable one-on-one support among cancer fighters, survivors and caregivers. Call (866) 463-7626 or visit their website for more information or to get started.
• American Cancer Society: Through the Society’s Reach to Recovery program, carefully selected and trained volunteers who have experienced breast cancer visit other breast cancer patients one on one to help them meet the physical, emotional and cosmetic needs related to their disease and/or its treatment. This program provides information and support to loved ones and friends. Call (800) 227-2345 for more information.
• Inspire: This online discussion group features several breast cancer communities where patients can share stories, ask questions and find support.

We don’t want you to have to worry about financial difficulties while you should be focusing on your breast cancer treatment and recovery. You may be eligible for help with your medical bills through our Patient Financial Assistance Program, which offers discounts and cost reductions based on:

• Income level
• Lack of health insurance
• Residency and citizenship

In addition, you may be eligible for assistance programs sponsored by federal and state government agencies.

Learn more about your eligibility for financial assistance.

You have many resources available in our local communities and nationally that can help during your treatment for breast cancer. These include:

• Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation: This organization offers a help line, financial assistance, education and resources for those diagnosed with breast cancer.
• Shades of Pink Foundation: Offers temporary financial assistance to help women with breast cancer who reside and are undergoing treatment in the Metro Detroit area, which includes Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Livingston and Genesee counties. Contact your Henry Ford Cancer Institute social worker if you are interested in assistance from Shades of Pink. You must have a referral from a healthcare professional.
• Hearts2Love: This not-for-profit organization provides educational programs and retreats to bring comfort, inspire courage, develop creativity and promote self-reliance through positive life changes. The “It’s a New Day” retreat, held three times each year at the Emrich Retreat Center in Brighton, Michigan, offers women who have survived cancer a chance to celebrate life; find comfort, strength and restoration; and understand their new lives as cancer survivors. Call (734) 674-8000 for more information or to sign up.
• Right Action for Women: Provides assistance to women who are at increased risk for breast cancer and do not have insurance or financial means to cover the cost of breast screenings.
• Sisters Network Inc.: A national African American breast cancer survivorship program that offers financial assistance for utilities and medical accessories. You can also sign up with the local Detroit chapter to get involved with monthly support meetings, conduct outreach programs and provide breast health resources.