survivorship and patient services

The power of sharing 1-800-227-2345
The American Cancer Society’s toll-free hotline, 1-800-227-2345, is staffed around the clock to provide support for patients and caregivers with information, day-to-day guidance, and emotional support at any given time.

With a massive database of local support groups and services, and free and accurate cancer-related information, 1-800-227-2345 can help patients find clinical trials, get answers to their financial and insurance-related questions, cope with appearance-related side effects of treatment, and connect with local support groups.

Melinda Block of Indianapolis, Indiana knows the potential and helpfulness of 1-800-227-2345. Her aunt, Ruthie Dunn, is currently being treated for cancer and Melinda wanted to know if ACS could help Ruthie get a wig. She was referred to 1-800-227-2345 and was connected to our free wig bank. When Ruthie called, not only was she able to get a wig, but she was also going to be able to get rides to and from treatments and was given all kinds of cancer-related information.

Melinda was amazed. She is a cancer survivor herself, and has been a team captain of the Relay For Life of Johnson County for three years, yet she knew very little about how much ACS could offer patients and their families who are battling the disease. She witnessed firsthand what resources her money supports when she donates to Relay.

"If I had known about the 800 number [when I was battling cancer] I believe it would have been a great means of support," said Melinda. "ACS has a great number of resources at their disposal that the common person may not even think about."

Melinda was also "most surprised" that the number was a 24-hour service. At any time, you can get access to vital information for understanding your cancer condition, day-to-day assistance through treatment and recovery, and emotional support from individuals who will connect you with others who have been there or are going through the same ordeal. Both Melinda and Ruthie are spreading the word about what 1-800-227-2345 offers.

"My aunt has shared the number with three other people who are fighting against cancer," said Melinda. "I believe we should always share ACS with everyone. You never know who may have a friend or loved one that has been touched by cancer. I would encourage people to call the 800 number because they are very knowledgeable [in] getting information to share with people who are going through this terrible time in their life."

By calling 1-800-227-2345, your American Cancer Society aims to provide you with the help you need for every step of the way in your fight against cancer. Having cancer is hard. Finding help shouldn’t be. If you or someone you know needs information, resources, or support, please call your American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345.