Nicole, a 57-year-old discovered a lump on her breast, it had been there for some time, but it was now so large that it could be been through her t shirt. She decided to just wait and see if it would go away. Nicole’s reluctance was because she was uninsured and did not have a Primary Care physician. After being referred to West Central Georgia Cancer Coalition (WCGCC), she was scheduled for an exam within 48 hours. Nicole received her clinical breast exam and was quickly referred for a diagnostic mammogram which was also paid for by WCGCC. Unfortunately, Nicole was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer which can be a very aggressive type of breast cancer. When she was given her diagnosis, she didn’t know where to go or the next steps. She called us back and we stepped in and connected her with the Cancer State Aid Program coordinator, where she was able to qualify for the program and then was assigned to an Oncologist to begin her cancer journey. She immediately began her cancer treatments, 2 surgeries, chemo, and radiation. Her illness was so sudden and progressed so quickly that Nicole had to abruptly stop working. During this process, Nicole began to fall behind on her monthly expenses. WCGCC also qualified her as a Neighbors Helping Neighbors Cancer Assistance Program candidate. This is a local program that was started several years ago and is funded through our annual fundraiser Paint the Town Pink. Nicole was able to receive financial assistance with her rent, gas and electric bills for three months. She also received a gift/gas card to assist her with transportation to her appointments. Nicole is cancer free and continues to be a resource to other survivors in the community.
Ralph’s story: Facing prostate cancer head on
Ralph Puckett of Dacula, Georgia, learned he might have prostate cancer in December 2018, when a routine annual physical with his primary care physician revealed an elevated PSA and an enlarged prostate. He followed up with a urologist for a complete urological...







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