Together, putting the power of kindness to work.
“Prior to the creation of the Be Kind Project: Breast Cancer Patient Assistance Fund, Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center did not have a fund specifically to help breast cancer patients in need of financial assistance with supportive care expenses not covered by insurance. This could include funding for things like diagnostic MRIs, clinical trials, genetic counseling, supportive therapies for hair preservation or stress relief, and family financial assistance to help with palliative care, bereavement or psycho-oncology services for patients, their spouses and their children.”
Linda Lotz
Chief Development Officer – Oncology
Banner Health Foundation
The Problem.
Financial limitations for breast cancer patients and their families when it comes to treatment, managing side effects and supportive care needs.
1 in 8 women (about 12%) will develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime
Breast cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer among women
New cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women
Women will die from breast cancer, making it second only to lung cancer deaths
Be Kind Project:
Breast Cancer Patient Assistance Fund, Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center
Be Kind Project is happy to announce a $1,250,000.00 donation and endowment for a patient assistance fund in partnership with Banner MD Anderson. This will assist individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, their families, and their children. The fund is designed to aid those in need of treatments and assistance not covered by their insurance.
- $1,000,000 endowment fund: this will provide an annual stream of support in perpetuity.
- $250,000 operational fund: this will allow the program to begin to assist patients immediately.
Below are some examples of financial assistance:
Clinical Needs
MRIs for patients with dense breasts and family histories of breast cancer, clinical trial participation and important genetic studies.
Supportive Needs
Scalp cooling therapy which can help preserve hair for chemo patients, acupuncture and other supportive therapies and services.
Children & Family Needs
Psycho-oncology services for children and assistance for spouses/couples dealing with intimacy or body image issues post-treatment.
