OBERON residents and families dealing with cancer are being urged to utilise the financial assistance offered by the Oberon Can Assist branch.
Despite the assistance out reach programs conducted by the Oberon branch, few locals have come forward to receive assistance.
“People just don't like to ask for help,” said the secretary for the Oberon Can Assist branch, Debbie Young,
The Can Assist Branch said locals should seek help with all types of financial assistance related to cancer, as this is exactly the local group was formed.
Debbie's grand daughter Dakota Francis was helped by the Bathurst Can Assist branch so Debbie knows first hand how much a difference help and support can make to a family battling cancer.
Debbie said that the details of those utilising the services of Can Assist will be dealt with in confidence.
The assistance can be for any financial costs related to battling cancer - from travel and accommodation to wigs and medicines. It can be utilised by the families and children of those dealing with cancer.
Can Assist can offer a range of services to people battling cancer.
The Jean Colvin Centre on the Sydney Harbour is a centre of excellence providing a high quality range of services for country people affected by cancer.
The centre offers free transport daily transport to major cancer treatment centres, such as Royal Prince Alfred, St Vincent's, Prince of Wales and the Mater. The Centre is a home away from home for those undergoing treatment to relax and rest and receive extra care and support they need when they are away from home and their families.
The centre also provides special programs, such as relaxation, exercise and motivational sessions.
The Lilier Lodge in Wagga Wagga was built by Can Assist and the NSW Cancer Council to provide accommodation for cancer patients and their carers as they undergo cancer treatment in the Riverina Cancer Care Centre.
Lilier Lodge is also a short distance from the Wagga Wagga Base Hospital and Cavalry Hospital, and accommodates 20 people and their carers and offers comfort during a very stressful time. There are also Can Assist VIVA Community Care Packages which can help those battling cancer. These packages can be tailored to your needs, and can include services such as light house cleaning, making beds, washing and ironing, shower assistance, assistance with dressing, transport, meals and so on. The packages also help with information and advice, as well as support.
The Oberon Can Assist Annual General meeting will be held on August 12 at the Oberon RSL from 7:30pm.
Debbie said that local clubs and organisations in the town have been very supportive, and that in addition the head office of Can Assist has supplied the Oberon branch with a new laptop computer and printer.
Debbie said once the computer system is up and running, there will be presentations made about services.
Debbie said that anyone wanting support can make contact on 0412 696 292.
“Even if it just to ask simple questions, and if we don't know the answers, we will find out and get back to you,” she said.
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