As women of a certain age, we’ve all been there. The time between our annual mammogram and waiting on the results can be excruciating long, especially for those of us who have a family history of breast cancer.
We wait.
We worry.
We pray.
And for the majority of women, the result of their mammogram screening is negative for cancer. And for others, it is not.
This starts the emotional roller coaster ride of being a cancer patient. It’s the label that no one wants and after the initial shock and realization of their new reality, most wonder where to turn in the journey to fight cancer.
ThriveWell Cancer Foundation is a non-profit based in San Antonio and founded in 2007. It was established to assist adult cancer patients and their families with the burden that comes along with their diagnosis. They work to help the patients who may need financial support, fund research and improve the overall quality of life for the patients and family members.
The ThriveWell programs offer a different approach for cancer patients. It is their intent for clients to live their lives in a normal, worry free way as much as possible.
The programs include:
DIVA-Deriving Inspiration & Vitality through Activity –This is a FREE and citywide exercise and nutrition program for women who are patients and those surviving breast cancer. Research has shown that breast cancer patients who follow diet and exercise guidelines can reduce recurrence by up to 50 PERCENT! And not only are they getting the important activity in the work out and nutrition sessions, they are making new friends that are going through the same journey. It creates an emotional bond that will last forever. Over the past eight years, the DIVA program has grown from one location with five classes, to over 30 classes throughout five locations in various areas of San Antonio.
Patient Assistance –As if the news of cancer isn’t tough enough, it comes along with an added financial burden. The added cost of co-pays and deductibles throughout their treatment plan is often too much for the patient and their family. ThriveWell’s Patient Assistance program offers financial assistance to help offset the costs associated with their medical care. Transportation is also a challenge for family members and adds to the stress of getting the patient to their myriad of appointments. They also assist in treatment related transportation for those in need of a reliable way of making the trips back and forth for doctor visits.
RESEARCH– The end of all cancers is what we hope to see in our lifetimes. It is crucial that research be funded and shared among researchers throughout the world. ThriveWell funds a local research project, The San Antonio 1000 Cancer Genome Project. It was established to accelerate the development of a cure for cancer by linking the genetic alterations that underlie the cancers that are detailed in the clinical outcomes. All data will be made public at no cost to researchers across the globe permitting established and new researchers access to clinical and molecular data to move forward and accelerate cancer research.
All of these ThriveWell Cancer Foundation programs cannot exist and grow without funding. Without sufficient monies in place, this incredible non-profit has to turn away patients who are in need of assistance. Although they rely on the generosity of private donors, the United Way, Methodist Healthcare Ministries, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, grants and their recent fundraising luncheon, they still need donations to assist their growing list of clients with their fight and survival of cancer.
ThriveWell is a 501(c) 3 non-profit and each donation made is tax deductible. Please consider making a monetary gift today, with $100 donation, you will help offset the costs of a radiation treatment for a cancer patient. For more information , please visit THRIVEWELL .
My donation is in honor of a childhood friend, Chantal and our children’s 3rd grade teacher, Candice. These beautiful women are approaching their fight against breast cancer with grace, prayer and strength. You are both an inspiration to so many of us.
We are in the journey with you and we love you.
And we continue to pray for your healing.
.
Stay Sassy Y’all.
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