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Wings of Hope program helps cancer patients

The Northern Cancer Foundation awarded grants totalling $10,000 for equipment and programs at the Northeast Cancer Centre Dec. 12.
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The Northern Cancer Foundation awarded grants totalling $10,000 for equipment and programs at the Northeast Cancer Centre Dec. 12. From left are Natalie McInnis (radiation), Andrea Bilash (dental oncology), Mark Hartman, vice-president of cancer services, Health Sciences North, Tannys Laughren, executive director, Northern Cancer Foundation, Stacey Carter (supportive care), and Lizette Deacon (systemic nurse). Supplied photo.
The Northern Cancer Foundation awarded grants totalling $10,000 for equipment and programs at the Northeast Cancer Centre Dec. 12.

The Wings of Hope program allows frontline Northeast Cancer Centre staff to apply for grants of up to $1,000 each to improve the delivery of care to cancer patients at the centre.

“We wanted to do something for the staff in recognition of our 20th anniversary in the community,” said Tannys Laughren, executive director with the Northern Cancer Foundation.
“They see the challenges every day, and so we’re happy to provide them an opportunity to advance patient care.”

A committee reviewed all of the staff's proposals and decided which projects would receive funding. Submissions included items such as collapsible IV poles, dental kits, thermometers and pulse monitors.

In most cases, the items were requested to help ease the financial burden for patients.

“Some cancer patients are not eligible for special funding (to cover the costs associated with treatment),” indicated one of the submissions received.

“Consequently, some clients stop components of their treatment early, resulting in less effective recovery.”

One submission proposed creating 50 samples of a new prototype: a waterproof dressing to cover arm catheters (PICCs) for patients to use while bathing/showering.

With the help of the Wings of Hope grant, they will be produced and used on patients in a study, to measure their effectiveness and durability.

“It’s all about making treatment better or easier for patients and their families,” said Laughren. “The staff of the Northeast Cancer Centre have always focused on, and have a reputation for, that commitment.”

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