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Colleen’s Corner: Local and National Resources

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Colleen was a young physician who battled cancer for 12 years. She believed it should be easier for patients and families facing a cancer diagnosis to find available supportive resources and services. We are working to make her belief a reality. When you see Colleen's Corner anywhere on our website, the information provided is patient and community submitted. If you would like to share a resource you think other cancer patients or caregivers might benefit from, or would like to add a comment about a listed resource, please email our cancer support specialist. You may also use the submit a resource or comment button in any of the below sections.

We have gathered a number of trusted organizations that Henry Ford Cancer Institute patients have found to be helpful. Please note that these organizations are not owned or operated by Henry Ford, unless marked with an asterisk indicate: *Resources available directly from Henry Ford.

Resource Topics

 

Henry Ford Health System Resources

  • Henry Ford Billing
    • Learn more about your medical bill, pay online, or contact us for assistance.
  • Financial Assistance
    • Patients can look to HFHS for fair pricing of the medical services it provides and for assistance with finding options to help manage their medical costs.
  • Insurances Accepted
    • Find out if your insurance is accepted at the Henry Ford hospital or medical center near you.
  • Cancer Support Specialist
    • Need help finding what you’re looking for? Your personal Henry Ford Cancer Support Specialist can guide you to information about cancer support services and resources, at Henry Ford and throughout the community. Use our online form to connect via email, and you will receive a response to your question within 24 business hours.
  • Support Groups and Classes
    • Henry Ford’s support groups and classes offer encouragement and hope when you need it the most, and our special programs will nourish your body and mind. All programs are free unless otherwise noted.
  • Caregiver Assistance Resources and Education Program
    • Henry Ford believes caregivers are valuable partners with the team that cares for your loved one. This site is an at-home connection to applications, tools, events, online learning, and important work information that can help you care for your loved one
  • Extended Care/Private Duty Services
    • These services include medical and non-medical services, such as errand and shopping, food preparation, personal care, physical and occupational therapy, transportation to appointments and more. Services are usually paid for privately.

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Assistance for Senior Citizens

  • The Green House Project
    • Highly staffed, home-like housing for seniors, from independent living to acute care.
    • Local Green House residences:
    • “The staff we experienced were compassionate and extremely well trained.  They never stopped looking for ways to help both residents and their families.  When my mother finally died a group of four caregivers came to her funeral on their own time driving over an hour each way to the funeral.  Personal attention is so valuable to both the person in need and their families.” –A caregiver
  • PACE Southeast Michigan
    • PACE Southeast Michigan is a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). PACE Southeast Michigan uses Medicare, Medicaid and private funds to cover medically necessary care and services, including transportation.
    • “I think this program is a great help for seniors who qualify.  (For 55 yrs and older).” –A patient
  •  The Helm at the Boll Life Center
    • A nonprofit, non-residential senior community center providing essential resources for older adults and their caregivers in the Grosse Pointes and Harper Woods communities.
    • "Multiple services for cancer patients, caregivers, families, etc.” –A community member
  • Detroit Area Agency on Aging
    • Offers many community resources for older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers residing in Detroit, Hamtramck, Harper Woods, Highland Park and the five Grosse Pointes, including free online Medicare insurance counseling for seniors or their family and caregivers, and $2.50 rides to and from medical appointments. For more information, call (313) 446-4444.

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Financial Assistance and Planning

  • Cancer Finances
    • A site to help young adults understand the costs associated with cancer and what they can do about it.
  • Cancer and Careers
    • Cancer and Careers empowers and educates people with cancer to thrive in their workplace, by providing expert advice, interactive tools and educational events.
  • NeedyMeds
    • Information and instructions about how to apply for Prescription Assistance Plans (PAPs).
  • World Medical Relief
    • If you are without insurance and struggling to pay for everyday medication or medical supplies, you may be eligible for assistance from World Medical Relief. For more information, call (313) 868-5333 or email: info@worldmedicalrelief.org.

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Food and Housing Assistance

  • Henry Ford Guest Housing
    • Short term, convenient, hotel-like accommodations on a first-come first-serve basis in the apartment building behind Henry Ford Hospital.
  • PantryNet
    • A list of Food Pantries that are in or near your zip code.
  • Reduced Hotel Rates for Cancer Patients
    • The American Cancer Society (ACS), through their “Hotel Partners Program,” offers reduced rates at various downtown and suburban hotels to cancer patients. For more information, call (800) 227-2345.

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Grief Support/Tough Stuff

  • Henry Ford Hospice
    • A person does not have to have had any connection with Henry Ford Hospice to take advantage of grief support groups. However, if your loved one was cared for by Henry Ford Hospice, a bereavement specialist will provide family support for at least 13 months after their death. Call for more information.
    • Henry Ford Hospice Bereavement Support Groups.
    • Locations and Contact Info:
      • Henry Ford Hospice - Macomb: (586) 276-9500
      • Henry Ford Hospice - Oakland: (248) 723-0033
      • Henry Ford Hospice - Wayne: (313) 337-7600
      • Henry Ford Hospice - Detroit Campus: (313) 916-7926
      • Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice: (517) 205-6982
    • If you are interested in registering for a support group or receiving the latest edition of our bereavement newsletter, call (586) 276-9570.
  • Free grief resources for families with children under 18
    • New Day
      • The New Day Foundation for Families offers free counseling for families with children who have been affected by cancer.
    • Sandcastles
      • This Henry Ford group offers support groups and a summer camp for families with children ages 3-18 who have experienced the death of a loved one.
    • New Hope
      • New Hope offers age and loss-specific workshops, seminars, peer support groups and social events for all family members affected by grief.
  • H3 - Hope, Healing and Health, LLC
    • A local emotional wellness center offering one-on-one therapy, support groups and more with licensed therapists and social workers. Many insurances accepted, and a sliding scale is used to charge for services.
    • Locations in Michigan include St. Clair Shores, Detroit, and Pleasant Ridge.
  • GriefNet.org
    • GriefNet.org is an Internet community of people dealing with grief, death, and major loss.
  • Losing a Puzzle Piece
    • Losing a Puzzle Piece is designed to be an online resource to provide support for other young adults and siblings who are in a caregiver role while balancing their roles as parents, spouses, and professionals.
    • Stories, encouragement, laughter, and community are shared in the hopes of helping others facing cancer, end-of-life care, death, and grief.
  • Modern Loss
    • Modern Loss is a place to share the unspeakably taboo, unbelievably hilarious, and unexpectedly beautiful terrain of navigating your life after a death.
    • This project grew out of two friends’ separate experiences with sudden loss, and their struggle to find resources that weren’t too clinical, overtly religious, patronizing or, frankly, cheesy.

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Insurance and Government Assistance Programs

  • Medicare
    • The official website for the Medicare program, find out more about your plan and what services are covered.
    • Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug plan costs.
  • Medicaid
    • Visit our Medicaid page to learn more about applying for Medicaid in Michigan. Visit MI Bridges to learn more or apply for Medicaid.
  • FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act)
    • The act that entitles eligible employees of covered employers to take 12 unpaid weeks off work with job security and continuation of group health coverage due to a serious health condition of self or a direct family member, among other situations.
    • Ask your social worker if you have questions about filling out and submitting online FMLA forms.

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Interact with Other Cancer Patients

  • Cancer Survivor Network
    • Create your own personal space to tell us about yourself and your cancer experience, share photos, audio, etc., start an online journal (blog), contribute resources, and more.
  • Cancer Hope Network
    • A free online service that matches cancer patients and caregivers with cancer survivor volunteers who will lend a trained, listening ear- sharing their experiences with cancer, providing hope, and inspiring courage.
  • Imerman Angels
    • A program that provides personalized connections that enable one-on-one support among cancer fighters, survivors, and caregivers. For more information, visit their website or call (866) 463-7626.
  • 4th Angel Mentoring Program
    • Anyone diagnosed or caring for someone with cancer is eligible to be matched with a mentor who will offer one-on-one support over the phone or e-mail. When a patient or caregiver requests a mentor, the program staff facilitates a match with respect to diagnosis, gender, and age.
  • Henry Ford Cancer Institute Facebook Support Group
    • This Facebook group is a place where Henry Ford Cancer Institute patients, post-treatment survivors, caregivers, and family can interact to share resources and help each other navigate this unique journey no one chose to be on.

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LGBTQ Resources

  • The National LGBT Cancer Project
    • Provides information about cancer-related programs, services and research focused on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people, and  disease-specific message boards.
  • National LGBT Cancer Network
    • This website provides information about cancer-related programs, services and research focused on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people, and  disease-specific message boards.

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Local Cancer Resources

  • Angels of Hope
    • A local non-profit that provides emergency assistance for the daily living expenses of cancer patients (i.e. rent/mortgage, utilities, food, insurance, auto).
  • U Can-Cer Vive Foundation
    • Provide vital funding for cancer research to create a cancer-free world.
    • Your application must be submitted through a hospital social worker, nurse navigator or other patient representative.
  • “I Promise” program at Henry Ford Wyandotte
    • A fund available to Downriver residents faced with the challenges of cancer and in need of essential medical and personal equipment such as wigs, prostheses, swimsuits, etc. For more information, call (734) 246-6053.
  • Berrien County Cancer Service
    • The Berrien County Cancer Service, Inc. provides a unique nursing service for the people of Berrien County (SW Michigan). Specializes in skilled home nursing care for cancer patients and those with related serious illnesses at no cost.
    • They also offer supportive services such as a medical equipment loan closed, financial assistance, wig boutique, and more.

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Major National Cancer Resources

  • National Cancer Institute
    • Comprehensive information about cancer, treatment, latest treatments, and resources for patients, families and caregivers.
  • CancerCare
    • Free telephone support from Oncology Social Workers, audio workshops, and publications for people with cancer and their loved ones.
  • Stupid Cancer
    • Information geared toward young adults who are battling cancer or are supporting a loved one with cancer.
  • Cancer.com
    • Personalize this website to your disease type and what resources you need, and it will help connect you with what you’re looking for, from a new diagnosis through survivorship.
  • Cure
    • An informational website with videos and articles customizable to your cancer type. They also offer a magazine subscription covering cancer updates, research and education.
    • “Has great articles not only for current cancer patients but also for survivors.” –A patient
  • Cancer- Now What?
    • This book is a comprehensive how-to guide that helps cancer patients and their loved ones navigate the medical, emotional, relational, and spiritual challenges of cancer.

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Make Your Life Easier

  • Cleaning for a Reason
    • Their mission is to give the gift of free house cleaning to women undergoing treatment for any type of cancer. Visit their website to find a participating cleaning company near you.
      • "Great company. I used them." –A patient
      • "Cleaning for a reason while undergoing treatment. Varies by location. A local in your area, generally sole owner housekeeping." – A patient
  • Laundromat
    •  Search for a laundromat near you
      • "A few times we gathered up all of the laundry- sheets, towels, everything- and took it to a laundromat to have it done. It felt like such a ridiculous indulgence, but it was wonderful and would be a great gift for someone." –A patient
  • Rover
    • The nation’s largest network of 5 star pet sitters and dog walkers.
      • “My doggie boy would have appreciated that!” –A patient
  • Shipt
    • Same-day home delivery of groceries and other items from your local stores. Order and pay through the Shipt app. You can also give a Shipt membership as a gift.
      • "I use the app Shipt all the time to have groceries delivered. It is great especially during the cold months. I used it today which was great because we really needed groceries & I have an extremely low white count. my oncologist told me he wouldn’t hospitalize me if I promised not to leave my house this weekend."  –A patient
  • Kroger Click List
    • Shop your local Kroger store online, and pull up to the door to pick up your groceries. Delivery is also an option in some areas.
      • "Similar to Shipt is Kroger’s clicklist. Instead of delivery they bring out to your car. No annual fee, $5/use." –A patient
  • City Services
    • "If you need lawn care or snow removal, I know that many city governments keep a list of companies and volunteer organizations that will provide those services at deeply discounted rates and sometimes free for the elderly and ill. Contact your City Clerk's office or go on their websites." – A patient
  • Meal Train
    • Interactive, online meal calendar that includes customized calendar dates, times and meal preferences, invitations via e-mail and facebook, reminder e-mails, optional donation fund add-on, updates and photos.
      • "Meal train was an app that let friends bring dinner in an organized way." –A patient
  • Caring Bridge
    • Personal, protected websites for every health journey. Use it to rally your family and friends together, to offer you support when and how you need it.
      • "Caring Bridge let me organize rides home from radiation and update everyone easily." –A patient
  • Michigan Meal Prep
    • Make meal time easier- order meals fully prepared by local chefs- then just heat and eat. You can pick the meals up or have them delivered for a flat rate.
  • Mobile Library
    • Many communities offer delivery of library materials to resident senior citizens or others unable to visit the library in person. Call or visit your local library to find out if they offer this service. The communities below offer delivery services to their residents:
  • Laundromat
    • Sudz on Mound
      • Laundromat and Laundry drop-off service, located on Mound Road in Shelby Township. They offer weekly specials including free soap and a senior discount.

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Phone and Tablet Cancer Apps

  • *Henry Ford Rx application
    • Allows you to manage prescriptions, including request for prescription refills, refill by scanning your label, track refill status, find nearby stores to place a refill request and setup dosage reminders for helping with medication adherence. Download from the App Store or Google Play.
  • Cancer.net app
    • A cancer-specific app for researching information on cancer, coming up with questions for your loved one's care team, recording notes or voice recordings from appointments, tracking side effects, and storing medication lists with pictures of the medication labels.
  • CreateToHeal
    • Mobile app is a relaxation app that uses breathing techniques, music, and visual imagery to reduce stress.
  • GRYT
    • GRYT Health's Cancer Community app includes:
      • Trusted community support: Ask or answer cancer-related questions you might have and know you're getting advice from those who understand what you're going through; they've been there, too.
      • Individual peer connection: Discover other users with similar profiles who share a common diagnosis and message them directly.
      • Group chat: Explore multiple chatrooms with varying topics.
      • Manage anxiety: Have questions? Need to vent? Connect with peers who have similar thoughts and feelings. Participate in programs led by clinical professionals who specialize in anxiety.
      • AppChats: Participate in scheduled chats exploring topics both beneficial for your health (neuropathy, anxiety, etc.) and others just for fun.
    • The GRYT mobile app is a digital cancer support group in your pocket.

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Specialty Wigs, Bras, and Other Cosmetic Resources

  • Marlene's Wigs with Love
    • Marlene works out of the Henry Ford Medical Center- Columbus to give cancer patients a free wig and accessories, regardless of ability to pay. Call for an appointment: (248) 344-7360.
  • Randa's Cutting Edge
    • Randa donates wigs for cancer patients with financial need.  When hair grows back in, she offers survivors a free color. Located at 32735 Mound Road, Warren 48092. Call: (586) 939-7888.
  • Henry Ford Cancer Institute- Downriver (Wig Bank)
    • 19675 Allen road Brownstown, MI 48183. Call: (734) 479-3311
  • Henry Ford Cancer Institute- Macomb (Wig Bank)
    • 15855 19 Mile Rd., Clinton Township, MI 48038. Call: (586) 263-2237
  • Salon Panache
    • 2624 W Jefferson Ave Trenton, MI 48183. Call: (734) 676-3600 
  • Mikel’s Wig Boutique
    • 3913 S Telegraph Rd.  Dearborn Heights, MI 48125. Call: (313) 724-8801
  • Unique Enhancements
    • 12776 Dixie Hwy South Rockwood, MI 48179. Call: (734) 379-7048 
  • TLC
    • A not-for-profit website and catalog of the American Cancer Society. They help women cope during and after cancer treatment by providing wigs and other hair loss products (plus how-to information), as well as mastectomy products, all at affordable prices.
  • Scalp Cooling
    • Scalp cooling devices can prevent hair loss for some people undergoing chemo therapy treatment. Ask your cancer care team if scalp cooling could help you.
    • DigniCap
      • Dignicap is an FDA approved device for men and women with solid cancer tumors that can prevent chemotherapy induced hair loss.
      • Not all insurances pay for cold caps. Here are some suggestions for submitting a cold cap request to your insurance company for reimbursement. Ask a social worker or someone from your care team if you need help applying for assistance.
    • Hair to Stay
  • Bellami Hair
    • Natural looking wigs, hair extensions, lashes, styling tools and accessories. Four Locations across the United States and an online boutique.
      • "I went to Bellami Hair for my wigs, so beautiful and natural looking!" –A patient
  • Awesome Breastforms
    • Free handmade and knitted breastforms for women who have had breast surgery or with developmental conditions.
  • Knitted Knockers
    • Special free handmade breast prostheses for women who have undergone mastectomies or other procedures to the breast. Soft, comfortable, beautiful, and take the shape and feel of a real breast when placed in a regular bra. Patterns to knit your own are also available online.

Local Cancer Survivor Specialty Stores

  • Comfortably Yours
    • 23404 Greater Mack Ave Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080. Call: (586) 776-7429.
  • A Woman's Image
    • 43205 Garfield Rd. Clinton Twp., MI 48038. Call: (586) 286-1277.
    • 28966 Woodward Ave. Royal Oak, MI 48067. Call: (248) 565-8467.
  • Landra Prosthetics and Orthotics - Women's Center
    • 526 North Telegraph Road Monroe, Michigan, 48162. Call: (734) 242-4050.
    • 14725 Northline Road, Southgate, Michigan 48195. Call: (734) 281-8144.
  • Lady Binson's Boutique
    • Multiple locations in the southeast Michigan area. Located inside Binson's Medical Equipment & Supplies.

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    Transportation

    • LogistiCare
      • Medicaid members could be eligible for free rides to cancer treatment appointments through Logisticare. A certificate of medical necessity form may be needed to reserve your ride, which your doctor will need to sign. Ask your social worker or care team for help with this process. Call to reserve a ride: (866) 569-1902.
    • Myride2
      • The Myride2 service helps seniors and adults with disabilities who live in Oakland, Macomb and Western Wayne counties find transportation options. For more information or to find transportation in your area, call (855) 697-4332.
    • Area Agency on Aging 1-B
      • Programs, resources and services from the AAA 1-B support older adults and help them live safely and comfortably at home. For more information or to find transportation in your area, call (800) 852-7795.
    • Lyft
      • Lyft is a ridesharing app that connects you with a ride to and from most locations. You can get a fare estimate before you book a ride, and can follow your driver’s location in real time.

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