It’s very expensive to have cancer. There are scans, monthly labs, Doctor appointments, drugs to fight the cancer and more drugs to help with side effects. It can be very overwhelming and if you’re like most people, it can be financially devastating.

There are some organizations, such as The Pink Fund, that are available to early stage breast cancer patients that offer financial help with non-medical related bills (rent, utilities, etc.). There are very few organizations that offer immediate financial help to Metastatic Breast Cancer patients.

This is often a big problem to women that need child care in order to go to appointments or having to choose between groceries, rent or chemo. I mean, seriously, the basic living necessities will always win, am I right?

Enter Rebecca Timlin-Scalera, founder of The Cancer Couch. In addition to raising money for the treatment of Metastatic Breast Cancer, Rebecca has begun establishing “Angel Funds” in the communities of some of the women that have been fierce advocates and educators of Metastatic Breast Cancer and who have also supported The Cancer Couch Foundation.

A portion of the funds raised from fundraising events in their respective communities will go to the local Metastatic fund.

The local fund is administered by the honoree’s local Cancer Center or Hospital. Metastatic men and women can inquire about receiving immediate help to cover rent, groceries, a utility bill, child care or transportation to a doctor appointment. The money does not need to be paid back. Everyone needs help from time to time. It’s OK to ask for help and with this fund now Metastatic Breast Cancer patients can get financial assistance.

I am very proud and humbled to announce that there is now The Susan Rahn Fund for Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients at The Pluta Cancer Center in Rochester, NY.

On October 28th, Rebecca and I met with Jamie Bishop, Executive Director and Judy Zeeman-Golden, Oncology Social Worker of The Pluta Cancer Center. Pluta, is where I receive my monthly treatment. Rebecca presented Jamie and Judy with a check for $2,000 to establish the this new fund.

Every fundraising event that is held in Rochester for The Cancer Couch Foundation, 10% will go directly into the Susan Rahn Fund at Pluta. Additionally, donations may be made directly to that fund via The Cancer Couch website using this link. Just scroll down until you see my name and picture and click the donation button.

As the holiday season approaches, I ask that you consider making a donation to this fund (if you live in the Rochester or surrounding area), or any of the funds listed on The Cancer Couch site, so that those seeking treatment for Metastatic Breast Cancer can have one less thing to worry. What better way to give thanks for your good health and spread some holiday cheer in the process?