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Program Helps Caregivers Provide Support To Loved Ones With Cancer | |
 Photo courtesy of NAPSI |
July 2002 -- Model Cindy Crawford, a dedicated cancer advocate who understands firsthand the toll that cancer caregiving can take on individuals and families, is teaming with Ortho Biotech Products, L.P., to encourage participation in Strength for Caring, a national education and support program for cancer caregivers. The Strength for Caring program offers workshops across the country in conjunction with local hospitals, healthcare facilities and cancer centers; a toll-free number for more information (1-888-I-CARE-80); and online resources atwww.StrengthForCaring.com. |
"My family was not fortunate enough to have the support of a program like Strength for Caring when my little brother was ill-we faced the tough challenge of caregiving alone," she continues. "Now caregivers can get the help they need from the Strength for Caring program, which provides support, empowerment and practical coping mechanisms for cancer caregivers."
Crawford, the national spokesperson for Strength for Caring, will raise awareness of the program and caregiving issues through a variety of activities. In addition to her participation in a national media campaign, Crawford's story will be highlighted on the campaign web site, and she will be provide the voice greeting for the toll-free number. She also will be featured on a Strength for Caring campaign poster that will be distributed to doctors' offices, health-care facilities, community centers and advocacy organizations.
Strength for Caring workshops are conducted by accredited nurses and social workers who undergo formal training to facilitate the programs and are attended by people with family members or loved ones with cancer. The program curriculum includes a range of topics and addresses the needs of caregivers by helping them to:
- understand cancer and its treatment;
- manage common symptoms such as fatigue and pain;
- meet the physical/emotional needs of patients with cancer;
- deal with changing family roles; and
- improve their own physical and mental health.
"I urge families and friends of loved ones with cancer to visit the Strength for Caring web site, www.StrengthForCaring.com, to find out more about the program and local event information," says Crawford.
Nearly 1.3 million new cases of cancer are expected to be diagnosed in 2002. Since 1990, about 16 million new cancer cases have been diagnosed. These statistics are an unfortunate, but real reminder that this year alone, millions of families will be thrust into the unrehearsed role of cancer caregiver.
Over the years, the role of the family caregiver has changed significantly to include providing advanced care in the home. In fact, after discharge from the hospital, many patients continue to receive complex treatments, such as home-administered chemotherapy, intravenous therapies and elaborate post-surgical care.
According to a study conducted by the National Family Caregivers Association, 54 million adults, or 26.6 percent of the U.S. adult population, provide care for an elderly, disabled or chronically ill relative or friend. Caregivers often risk their own health status while dedicating themselves to the health and well-being of another. Community-based education and support for caregivers helps to relieve the stress of this demanding role.
For more information on Strength for Caring, or to find out about local events, caregivers can call the toll-free hotline-1-888-I-CARE-80 or visit the web site at www.StrengthForCaring.com.
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Source: NAPSI
