Really great resources for cancer patients and survivors are sometimes tricky to come by. These are a few that I found (and continue to find) incredibly helpful. I’ve also thrown in a few sites that I think are beneficial to any one interested in saving themselves and the world. If you have other sites you’d like to see listed, send us an email.
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The Assertive Cancer Patient
Jeanne was diagnosed with a particularly nasty form of Breast Cancer since 1998. She’s been fighting the disease and speaking out ever since.
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Caring Bridge
I’ve never used this site myself, but I know several people currently undergoing treatment that find it incredibly helpful. The resource isn’t exclusive to cancer patients, either. Basically it’s a tool to connect family and friends during any critical illness, treatment or recovery.
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Circus of Cancer
Kelly Corrigan’s pointers for talking to cancer patients – and their spouses – really resonated with me.
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Cleaning for a Reason
These folks offer free cleaning services to women undergoing cancer treatment.
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I’m Too Young For This
Matthew Zachary’s site rallies against the “we’re beating cancer” propaganda. I’ve attended some of their “Stupid Cancer Happy Hours” and applaud their efforts to bring survivors together both on and offline.
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Environmental Working Group
The only thing better than surviving cancer is not getting it in the first place. This organization focuses on changing government regulations to protect the environment, and the most vulnerable members of the human race – infants. I’m particularly fond of their Skin Deep database – an online safety guide for cosmetics and personal care products.
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Head Covers
Founded by a cancer survivor, this is a great source for hats, sleep caps, and large scarves to cover a suddenly bald noggin. They even have a great selection of coverings for kids.
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Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
This volunteer society focuses on blood cancers. They raise a great deal of funding for cancer research. Some day (really, no REALLY) I hope to take advantage of their Team in Training program. I’ve also participated in their Light the Night events.
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Livestrong
This is another resource for life during and after cancer. I’m a fan of their work on health care reform, too.
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National Cancer Institute
It’s exactly what it sounds like – painfully dry and factual – but that can actually be a good thing. While I’m not always happy about what I read in their monthly newsletters, I’m glad to have the information. They also provide free brochures on specific cancers and treatments. I ordered a slew of them when first diagnosed.
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Planet Cancer
A cheeky social networking site for young adults with cancer. The community is filled with brave and caring people eager to offer insights and advice. The founder, Heidi Adams, does amazing work to represent young cancer patients in ongoing health care reform.
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Stand Up to Cancer
These guys are primarily focused on funding further cancer research. I have mixed feelings on this organization, but I find their weekly roundup of links to research updates and cancer in the news to be really helpful.
