Easing the cancer journey is the core of everything the Alberta Cancer Foundation does. For many Albertans diagnosed with this disease – receiving treatment close to home is one simple but significant way to offer comfort and convenience. Cancer doesn’t discriminate by geography and the Alberta Cancer Foundation is proud to directly support all 17 cancer centres across the province. We believe Albertans should receive the care they need within 100 km of home.
The Bonnyville Community Cancer Centre is a place where patients in that town and surrounding communities can get much of their cancer treatment. At a time, often marked by so much uncertainty, not having to travel to larger centres can make a huge difference. Last year, there were 1,337 patient visits to the Bonnyville Community Cancer Centre for treatments, follow-ups and support. Every investment we make to benefit Albertans facing cancer is only possible because of generous donors. Because of their support, important enhancements have been at the centre. That includes an endoscopy suite which opened several years ago which significantly reduced the wait time for patients to be screened for colorectal and cervical cancer.
Initiatives to help patients navigate what can often be an overwhelming and complex journey are available at the Bonnyville Community Cancer Centre. The Patient Navigator Program, funded by the Alberta Cancer Foundation, pairs patients with registered nurses who explain treatments or elaborate on test results. For those patients who take advantage of this program - it means they are not alone in making difficult health-care decisions and can be linked to resources they need, when they need them.
What sets us apart? We focus on patient impact. We believe it is important to invest in the best ROI: results, outcome and impact. Like donors, we support only initiatives which offer real-life returns for Albertans facing cancer. We can do more when we work together – and it is because of committed donors that patients living in rural communities can get this care delivered closer to home.