About Us
Ten years ago, a group of CTCA patients asked for a way to reach out. A way to tap into the vast knowledge and inspiration of patients and family members across the country who’d already fought the fight.
Today, coast to coast, in hospitals and homes, churches and coffeehouses, Cancer Fighters come together. Our mission is to empower one another to take control of our cancer, to seek knowledge, to make informed decisions, and to support each other in every way we can.
Strength, Courage, and Hope are three characteristics that represent the Cancer Fighter community. Facing a cancer diagnosis, or knowing someone who has been diagnosed with cancer, is one of the most difficult things a person could ever experience.
Many people who are living with cancer give in and take the path of least resistance, even though they know it may not be the best solution. The Cancer Fighter program provides tools and support to help make journeys of patients and their loved ones going through cancer treatment easier. Our goal is to encourage a partnership role in healthcare decisions; treatments and many other choices people will face during their journey.
Many Cancer Fighters share their personal story on the Cancer Treatment Centers of America website and in their local newspapers. They speak at seminars or participate in community activities such as cancer walks and runs, and many other local events. Others keep copies of the Cancer Fighter Magazines, the Take Control of Cancer Guide, and other Cancer Treatment Centers of America information in their homes, vehicles, and work place.
Some Cancer Fighters choose to make a larger commitment and are part of the patient-to-patient network. These Cancer Fighters are patients and caregivers who are willing to talk to other patients about their treatment experience and the decisions they have made in their journey. These volunteers communicate with many patients by phone, e-mail or during their visit at our hospital.
All of these things contribute to empowering patients and family members who have been touched by cancer. Cancer Fighters make a difference in people's lives every day.
There are five core pathways that are at the heart of the Cancer Fighter Program and all that it is trying to accomplish. Understanding them and how to activate each is critical to the success of the program.
The five core pathways:
Empower Each Other
As a Cancer Fighter, you have valuable experience with the cancer journey and understand the impact of this journey. You have a solid knowledge of whole-person care and its many benefits. Use this knowledge to inform others of the many treatment options and services that integrated care provides. Support their quest for information, insights and opportunities as it relates to whole-person care. Advocate and promote integrative, patient-centered care for those cancer patients searching for new, cutting-edge ways to take control of their cancer treatment.
Spread the Word
As a Cancer Fighter, you have a wealth of knowledge about CTCA and you want to share it. You understand CTCA's mission, vision and promise--and know CTCA has unique points of difference as compared to other cancer care providers. You embrace all that CTCA offers and you want others to experience the difference. You are committed to spreading the word about CTCA! By helping CTCA grow, others won't have to say "if only I had learned about CTCA sooner".
Drive Excellence
As a Cancer Fighter, you understand how important one's cancer care is during and after treatment. You know that lifelong care is a necessity for cancer patients. You are very familiar with CTCA's service standards and promise. You want others to have the quality of care you had at CTCA. As CTCA continues to grow, work with CTCA to create new services and to continue to deliver the mother standard in cancer care. Identify and offer up ideas for innovative enhancements. Provide input and recommendations for ensuring CTCA is #1 in delivering A+ cancer care.
Nurture Each Other
Patients and survivors have expressed the importance of sharing their journey of healing and hope with others. They are healed as much by the people they meet and the friends they make at CTCA, as the treatment they recive. Use the Cancer Fighter Program to develop and foster these healing relationships when you are at the hospital or at home. Meet others who have lived with cancer to find a source of compassion. Come together to give and receive comfort, support, and hope. Join the Cancer Fighter network nurture lifelong friendships.
Give Back
As a Cancer Fighter, you appreciate the support and comfort that was provided to you as you journeyed through your cancer experience. You have found hope and want to give hope to others. You understand how cancer affects one's mind, body and spirit. You know there are many other cancer patients across our globe that are in need of support and love. You believe that we can all make a difference in the cancer journey and want to show your gratitude through giving. Demonstrate your commitment by giving back to family, friends, and your community.
