LRCP Patient Assistance Program

Although the majority of our health care costs are paid for through the publicly funded system, there are many expenses that are not covered. In a 2006 research study*, the out-of-pocket costs for cancer patients who reported experiencing a financial burden ranged between $200 and more than $500 per month depending on their employee benefit package and varied health care needs. Caregivers also take time off work to care for their sick family member, decreasing household income at a time when they need it most.

It's extremely difficult to deal with a potentially life-threatening illness like cancer, but the situation becomes even worse if you have the added worry and anxiety of trying to manage the costs associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The London Regional Cancer Program (LRCP) Patient Assistance Program helps to fill this monetary gap by helping those experiencing financial hardship to pay for some of these extra expenses. The funding makes a notable difference in the lives of cancer patients, reducing stress and anxiety, and allowing them to focus their energy on healing.

Massel-Cruickshank Breast Cancer Patient Assistance Fund

In 2004, Dr. Moira Cruickshank and her family created the Massel-Cruickshank Breast Cancer Patient Assistance Fund to help breast cancer patients in need. As a result of Dr. Cruickshank's philanthropic vision, her family has carried the torch since her passing. An annual Braz for the Cause event continues to act as a major initiative in support of this fund.

Through the fund, many breast cancer patients have received assistance for illness-related expenses such as mastectomy bras, breast prostheses, wigs, parking, medications and child care.

Donate online

Gene Goodreau Patient Assistance Fund

In 2007, Susan Goodreau and her family created the Gene Goodreau Patient Assistance Fund through a personal and corporate donation in honour of Susan's husband who died of cancer.

Through the fund, many cancer patients have received assistance for illness-related expenses such as transportation, accommodation, parking, medications, nutritional beverages, wigs and child care.

Donate online

 * Longo C.J., Fitch M., Deber R.B., and Williams A.P. (2006) Financial and family burden associated with cancer treatment in Ontario, Canada. Support Care Cancer (2006)14:1077-1085