Voices of the American Cancer Society, Great Lakes Division

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	Sharing Stories of Hope, Progress, and Answers Across Indiana and Michigan v.21, July 2008

education

Great Lakes launches initiative to raise awareness about ACS resources
Since 1913, the American Cancer Society has been working hard to reduce the burden of cancer and improve the quality of life for those facing the disease. From groundbreaking medical discoveries and persistent advocacy efforts to educational campaigns and outreach programs, the Society is striving to eliminate cancer as a life-threatening disease.

Billboard Advancements in this fight against cancer are making a difference today, more than ever before. Nevertheless, nearly half of all men and a little more than one third of all women will develop cancer during their lifetime. A high rate of people are expected to be diagnosed, and more caregivers will be needed to care for them. The American Cancer Society is dedicated to measurably improving the quality of life (physical, psychological, social, and spiritual) of all cancer survivors from the time of diagnosis on.

While the American Cancer Society remains one of the most well known voluntary health organizations, many people view it as a research or fundraising organization, rather than a place to turn to when impacted by a cancer diagnosis or for support with cancer-related issues. For this reason, the Society launched an initiative to raise awareness about the many ways ACS can help patients, survivors and caregivers, as well as healthcare providers through its Cancer Resource Network (CRN) and National Cancer Information Center (NCIC).

The CRN consists of a wide range of resources, including cancer information, programs, services, and community referrals that the American Cancer Society offers to help patients, survivors, and caregivers manage their cancer experience.

The Society’s NCIC is a 24-hour, toll-free information service that can be a critical step in helping people facing cancer understand their disease and decide how to overcome it. Trained cancer information specialists are always available to answer questions about cancer.

People have a greater chance of overcoming cancer when they have access to the care they need, relief from worrying about how to get their treatments, and support from others who have been there. The Society is connecting those with cancer with information, day-to-day assistance, and the emotional support they need to help them through every step of their cancer journey.

In late May, the ACS awareness initiative was launched in the Great Lakes Division. Bus signage and billboards were used in both Indianapolis and Detroit to reach medically underserved communities. The campaign also includes advertising in medical publications and African American and Hispanic newspapers, radio spots across both Michigan and Indiana, and direct mail to lower income communities.

Additionally, posters with tear-off sheets will be distributed to medical clinics, community organizations, and religious groups to maximize the probability of reaching newly diagnosed cancer patients.

You too can help get the word out there about how your American Cancer Society can help those facing cancer. Having cancer is hard, and ACS understands that finding help shouldn’t be. No matter who you are, regardless of your background, race, gender, economic status, or geographic location, the Society is here to help you through your cancer journey. Call your American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345.

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American Cancer Society | Great Lakes Division, Inc. | 1755 Abbey Road | East Lansing, MI 48823