Community's support makes center possible
As I leave my position as president of the Board of Community Cancer Services, I reflect on how far this organization has come in the 5 1/2 years it has been serving the community. I have always said it is unfortunate the need is there, but we are so blessed to have this resource in our community to help those who are facing the battle of a lifetime.
Today, CCS has more than 100 clients. A year ago we were looking at the possibility of closing our doors because the funds to keep it open did not exist. Thanks to a generous donation we were able to make it through some extremely tough times.
With a budget of approximately $120,000, we provide a variety of services, including, but not limited, to gas vouchers for clients to travel to and from treatments and medical appointments, prescription assistance, food vouchers and assistance with payment for utility bills. Emotional support is also provided by way of support groups for men, women, children, and caregivers as well as one on one counseling by a licensed social worker. These are just some of many services available at CCS.
In tough economic times, we at CCS realized that the generosity of the people in Sandpoint has not waned. We were given a very generous gift by Skip and Nancy Pucci when they hosted a wonderful benefit for CCS at their beautiful home this past summer. The funds raised by that event have done so much to help those in this community.
In October, Ponderay Rotary, with the assistance and support of Steve and Julie Meyer of Pend d’Oreille Winery, hosted A Night To Remember wine tasting event. It was such a success that we are looking forward to hosting the event again in October.
On March 27, Schweitzer will once again host A Day For Heather, named in memory of Heather Gibson the founder of CCS. On that day all lift tickets will be $10 and all the proceeds will be donated to CCS.
It is people like the Skip and Nancy Pucci and Steve and Julie Meyer and organizations such as Ponderay Rotary and businesses like Schweitzer and Pend d’Oreille Winery that do so much to support our local cancer patients. It is a scary time when there is a cancer diagnosis and knowing you have somewhere to turn for financial and emotional support is a great comfort.
Thank you to all — from the large businesses to the children who put their coins in our Coins for Cancer jars at the school — for all you do. Because of your support, cancer patients in our community know they are not alone.
n Patty Hutchens is the outgoing president of the Board of Community Cancer Services.