A Community Of Hope

by Emily Rippe
The Missing Pieces
Toledoan Jean Schoen is a matchmaker of sorts. She founded the Cancer Connection of Northwest Ohio, Inc in 2008 as a means to satisfy the needs of cancer patients living and seeking treatment in the Greater Toledo area. The nonprofit organization has since helped more than 200 people through their journeys, offering companionship, housing, daycare and other resources at no cost to patients and their loved ones.

Cancer Connection of Northwest Ohio developed out of necessity after Schoen's husband was diagnosed with cancer. He's now an 11-year survivor.

"Our experience lead me to realize that there were a lot of things missing for cancer patients and their families," Schoen said. "I spend a lot of time researching information with the intention to fill in some of these gaps."

A Place To Call Home                                                                                                                                     Because Northwest Ohio is a treatment hub for cancer patients across the Midwest, affordable housing was one of the first issues that CCofNWO decided to tackle. The program provides free temporary housing to out-of-town patients. Visiting patients currently stay at the Casey-Pomeroy House, which provides a huge financial relief for those who would typically be paying out of pocket to stay in a hotel.

In addition to the temporary housing program, CCofNWO also offers free day care to ensure that patients aren't missing their appointments to look after their children. Services are provided by the Grannie Thomas Learning Center, with locations in Toledo and Rossford. The organization also features a supply closet that houses free medical supplies and durable equipment such as walkers and wheelchairs.

Such programs are made possible through the generous support of community businesses such Savage and Associates, Casey-Pomeroy House, SouthernCare Hospice, Grannie Thomas Learning Center and Blaser Bookkeeping and Tax Service. As the organization continues to grow with its services and referrals each year, CCofNWO's need for monetary donations becomes greater. The organization hosts a variety of fundraisers throughout the year to promote awareness. 2012 is already shaping up with a 5K race in March, and a partnership with the Arts Commission of Greater Toledo in August.

Lend A Hand                                                                                                                                                  Though surviving cancer is a long and difficult struggle, it doesn't have to be lonely. Cancer Connection of Northwest Ohio runs a volunteer program called Hand-In-Hand, providing personal support and companionship to cancer patients and their caregivers.

"The first thing I do when I get a referral is set up a home visit," Schoen said. "Once I meet with the patient to understand their needs better, either myself or a volunteer will accompany them to doctors visits."

Volunteer Companions are asked to work one hour a week with their paired patient, and support can be provided over the phone or face-to-face. The service does not require transportation aid or travel, but volunteers must be willing to listen. The volunteer work is flexible and accommodates the busiest of schedules.

"The goal is to ensure that each patient has a contact in case they need help with anything," Schoen said. "They really appreciate having someone to talk to."

Those interested in becoming a Volunteer Companion can email Jean Schoen at ccofnwo@aol.com or call 419-725-1100. For more information about Cancer Connection of Northwest Ohio, visit ccofnwo.blogspot.com.


Published: 12/28/2011 7:00 am

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