Society needs volunteers

“You have cancer;” those are some of the scariest words you could ever hear. It has become an unfortunate truth that you likely know at least 1 person or more who is suffering from this disease. With everyday worries & some already struggling imagine also having to deal with Cancer or caring for someone who is living with it. Maybe they are fortunate enough to be able to work, or maybe not, imagine the impact. The person may not have family support, enough money for their life saving medications or something as simple as a car to get to appointments. We tend to take for granted the other people around us, a neighbor, a co-worker or the stranger in line at the grocery store. Is it really too much trouble to think about the other people around us? This is why we do what we do here at the American Cancer Society, all the advocacy & fundraising efforts & education. Did you know that the American Cancer Society can provide you with someone to talk to, resources about your diagnosis & finances, a wig, or a ride to your appointments? Yes, we can help! Did you also know that the Pike Unit of the American Cancer Society raised over $125,000 this year alone through events like Daffodil Days, Relay For life & other fundraisers. That is an amazing feat! Pike County currently hosts a Daffodil Days event, a Relay For Life of the Lake Region, and a Relay For Life of Delaware Valley. All of the money raised is effectively used for research, patient services & advocacy efforts. Pike County reaps the benefits of the money you raise. Your local physicians are provided with accessibility to advanced treatments & medications, all in an effort to reach our goal of eliminating cancer as a major health problem. It is never too late to contribute, whether you volunteer, sell or buy Daffodils, join a Relay team or make a general donation. The Pike unit is always in need of volunteers for all of our events. I encourage you to take a day & sell some daffodils at one of our locations, form a team & join us at a Relay, or attend an event. Volunteering is a great way to give back even if you are struggling yourself. If you have not had the privilege of witnessing a Luminaria service at a Relay event, you are missing out! The service is a time for remembrance, and very touching. It’s never too late to make a difference in the life of someone with Cancer, and you may be surprised to realize how much they will make a difference with you! The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it. If you are interested in volunteering with the American Cancer Society, or are in need of assistance, we are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. You can contact your local ACS office by calling 570.562.9749, visiting www.cancer.org or email tonyehn.verkitus@cancer.org. Tonyehn Verkitus Taylor