Our impact at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Cancer impacts every aspect of a patient’s life, and the stress can be overwhelming. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s Patient and Family Assistance Program offers a number of financial and supportive resources that reduce the burden of these stresses and allow patients to focus on what is most important: their well-being. In June 2016, the Forward4Tobi Foundation gifted $100,000 to Dana-Farber. Since then the Forward4Tobi Patient Assistance Fund has provided critical support to 195 patients through patient assistance funds and the Crisis Fund. The following examples highlight how our gift helped to give these patients peace of mind so that they could focus on their treatment. Read the attached progress report to learn more about how we have helped those in need.
DFCI Report to Forward4Tobi_3.29.17
Melanie
Before being diagnosed with breast cancer, Melanie, age 37, helped to support her retired parents. When her treatments left her unable to work and with her paid sick leave coming to an end, Melanie faced the prospect of no income. Until the family could begin to receive benefits for which they were eligible, Stop & Shop gift cards helped to put food on the table and relieved anxiety during this stressful time.
Alex
Alex, a breast cancer patient in her early 30s, has three children, ages 3, 5, and 6. Alex was treated for cancer last year, but the disease recurred within six months and her prognosis is poor. Alex has been unable to work since her diagnosis and her partner is on permanent disability. Alex’s parents have moved in to help, allowing her to spend as much time with her children as possible. Patient assistance funds helped alleviate the stress of payment for groceries, providing critical support during this challenging time.