CANCER HOUSE OF HOPE – SUPPORT AND HEALING WHEN PEOPLE NEED IT MOST

By Cheryl A. Gorski, Executive Director

A diagnosis of cancer is one of the most emotionally and physically devastating events in a person’s lifetime. Cancer knows no boundaries and does not discriminate among black or white, socio-economic status or religion. The disease has a face and it is often the face of our friends, our loved ones and many times, us, personally. There are so many uncertainties after the diagnosis: What treatment do I need? Will I be sick? Who will take care of my family? Will I even survive? In Springfield and Westfield, there are two locations where you can find support, learn coping strategies, borrow books, take wigs and most importantly – know that you are not alone.

The Cancer House of Hope opened in Westfield nearly ten years ago and it is a non-profit organization that offers free-of-charge services for people with cancer, as well as their families. The Westfield and Springfield Houses are exactly that – comfortable, welcoming and inviting surroundings of a home environment away from the confines of a medical facility. Located at 946 Plumtree Road in Sixteen Acres, the Springfield House opened its doors in May, 2005. From Recently Diagnosed to Living with Advanced Cancer, both locations offer support groups with professional counselors and include Breast Cancer, Prostate Cancer, All Cancers, Melanoma, Family & Friends, Bereavement, Relaxation and others. Members of the Cancer House of Hope can take advantage of Reiki sessions, a form of relaxation therapy, as well as a gentle Yoga class, which assists with flexibility and stress reduction. Dedicated volunteers and professional staff assist members in need of wigs, hats, prostheses, books and videos on various forms of cancers, treatments and coping techniques for all members of the family.

The Cancer House of Hope receives its funding largely from the generosity of private individuals and through its fundraising events. Donations are always accepted and were particularly helpful during a recent incident of vandalism at the Westfield House in September, 2006.

The Springfield Cancer House of Hope is open Monday through Thursday, from 10:00am until 7:00pm. The Westfield House is open Monday through Friday, same time. If you or a loved one would like to find out more information about the Cancer House of Hope, please call (413) 782-5500 or (413) 562-0110. If you have been diagnosed with cancer or you are the spouse, parent, child or even friend of someone who has or had cancer, please call today. We are here when you need us most. n