I Can Cope
Made up of 13 divisions and more than 3,400 local offices across the country, the American Cancer Society is a community-based voluntary health organization that offers research, education, patient service, and advocacy programs to try and help patients who are living with all types of cancer, including mesothelioma and
asbestos cancer.
The I Can Cope service is one of the ACR’s educational program serves as an outlet for cancer patients - including those with malignant mesothelioma – and their friends and family to receive information on all aspects of the cancer diagnosis and treatment processes.
The information is given out through classes organized by the society that attempt to dispel common misconceptions that many have regarding treatment. Additionally, information is given on a number of secondary issues that affect many families dealing with a cancer diagnosis, but are not directly connected to the treatment process. Among some of the ideas that are addressed are financial concerns, nutrition and physical activity, and self-esteem/intimacy issues that patients may struggle with.
In-person classes are held in numerous communities across the country. While the services are free and require no type of physician’s referral to attend, the ACS recommends that those who want to attend pre-register for classes that are in their area.
Additionally, self-paced online classes are also offered by the program that participants can log into at any time and in any location that is comfortable to them.
Along with the I Can Cope program, the ACS also offer a “Reach to Recovery” program for patients dealing with breast cancer, the Hope Lodge - which provides a housing option for patients who live far away from their treatment center, and programs to help patients for all types of cancer deal with the after-effects of treatment.
For those living with mesothelioma cancer that are undergoing treatment and care for their illness, there also may be a desire to pursue legal action against a former employer that caused their
asbestos exposure. Contact a
mesothelioma lawyer if you would like to learn more about your legal options and see if an
asbestos settlement is a possibility.