Cancer is one of the four leading non-communicable epidemics or lifestyle-related diseases in the world. Severe cases of cancer not only claim millions of lives yearly, they also overwhelm the patient’s finances. People diagnosed with cancer might need to quit work to recuperate while simultaneously spending money on medicines, tests, and other treatment. The expenses and the fact that being diagnosed with cancer can be emotionally draining are the reasons why cancer support groups are important.

In this article, we will list down the local cancer support groups you can reach out to in case you need assistance.

Local Cancer Support Groups For Medical Assistance

If you’re looking for local networks for financial assistance, here’s a list for you:

Government Agencies

The Department of Health has programs that cater to patients undergoing treatment for specific types of cancer.

For instance, they have the Breast Cancer Medicines Access Program (BCMAP) which gives access to cancer medicines and “cost-effective and commonly used” adjuvant chemotherapy (particularly for those with Stage III-B breast cancer). Click here for the list of hospitals where you can avail BCMAP.

They also have the Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia Medicines Access Program (ALLMAP). Click here for the list of hospitals where you can avail ALLMAP.

Of course, remember that various government agencies, like the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) and PhilHealth, also provide medical assistance to cancer patients.

Andres Soriano Foundation

Andres Soriano Foundation has a Cancer CARE Program that aims to “reduce cancer mortality and alleviate the burden of suffering imposed on patients, families, and communities.”

They also provide assistance to patients with Breast Cancer Stage 1 to 2 or better.

For the process and list of requirements, you may reach them here.

Bahay Aruga

Bahay Aruga offers a halfway house to children with cancer needing treatment at the Philippine General Hospital. Besides giving them a home, they also provide other necessities, like medicines, groceries, and transportation.

You may visit their Facebook Page for more information.

Kythe Foundation

Kythe Foundation actively seeks people who can financially help children with cancer proceed or continue with their treatment. They also offer psychosocial support to patients and their families.

You can reach Kythe Foundation here.

Redemptorist Church and Quiapo Church

Redemptorist Church and St. John the Baptist Parish (Quiapo Church) are on the Philippine Cancer Society’s list of institutions that provide medical assistance to cancer patients.

You may proceed to the church’ office or contact them using these phone numbers:

• Redemptorist Church: 832 – 1150
• Quiapo Church: 733 – 4945

You might also want to check out churches or other religious organizations in your area. They might also have programs for cancer patients.

GMA Kapuso Foundation

As per Philippine Cancer Society’s list, the GMA Kapuso Foundation offers assistance to patients 0-18 years old in any government hospital. You need to prepare the following:

• Medical Certificate or Clinical Abstract
• Social Case Study
• Treatment Protocol

You may reach them through their contact number, 928-4299, or go to 2/F Kapuso Center Samar St. Cor. Jamboree St. Diliman, Quezon City.

Local Cancer Support Groups With Psychosocial Services

If you’re looking for cancer support groups that provide emotional support through counseling or psychosocial services, you might want to reach out to:

Alabang Cancer Support Group

396 Batangas South, Ayala Alabang Village 1780 Muntinlupa City

Tel. 850 9835

Email: [email protected]

Breast Cancer Society of Manila

#46 Kingsville St.,

1110 White Plains, Quezon City

You can also reach them through their Facebook account and Website.

Carewell Community

6th Floor, S & L Building dela Rosa

Corner Esteban Streets Legaspi Village,

Makati City 1200 Philippines

Tel. (632) 815-1294

Email: [email protected]

You can check out their website here.

Cancer Warrior Foundation (For Children and their Family)

1317 Lopez Jaena Street, Paco, Manila

Tel. 85622954

Email: [email protected]

You may also view their services here.

ICanServe Foundation (For Breast Cancer Patients)

Unit 2302 Medical Plaza Ortigas Building,

San Miguel Avenue, Ortigas Center

Pasig City 1605 Philippines

Tel. +632 636 5578

Email: [email protected]

You may also visit their website here.

Reminders

If you’re looking for cancer support groups, don’t hesitate to contact the hospital where you or your loved one are getting treated. Most big hospitals have their own department or organization to support patients and families. Also, don’t forget to look for cancer support groups online, especially on social networking sites.

Learn more about Cancer here.