Cancer is one of the scariest diseases to have plagued our society and many patients suffer under tremendous emotional, mental, physical, and financial strain.
Aware of the strain the disease can have on patients and loved ones, Linda Jacobs founded Ross Helping Hand Foundation, a support center for cancer patients and their families and this year the center celebrates 10 years in operation.
Jacobs lost her husband to cancer and her unfortunate experience lead to her understanding of the challenges faced by cancer patients and their families.
“I lost my husband to brain stem cancer and I saw a gap because there just wasn’t enough assistance available. Cancer is a horrible thing and people need financial assistance and emotional assistance.
“We have a great team of caring staff who assist with support for the patients. They l sit with them during chemotherapy or help with whatever they need. People don’t budget for cancer so we step in to help where we can,” said Jacobs.
The foundation is currently run by six individuals who provide assistance to cancer patients in the form of transportation to treatment sessions, accommodation associated with away treatment sessions, hospital beds and bedding, wheelchairs, adult nappies, food parcels, and anything else they may need.
According to Belinda MacDonald, the fundraising coordinator of RHHF, the small team has faced many challenges throughout the years but they have remained positive and hardworking.
“Our greatest challenge has been that our foundation is only run by a small, passionate team. This is challenging at times as we have so many requests for assistance and we are unable to help everyone.
“We need volunteers so we can build a foundation that can assist as many families as possible.
“We need the community to get involved and become members, and volunteers to get involved to assist where needed with fundraisers, and being part of our volunteer group to assist with meals, transportation and lightening the load for families who are affected by cancer,” said MacDonald.
RHHF has hosted multiple fundraiser events including bingo and trivia nights, as well as ladies’ teas and a Covid coloring-in competition.
“We have a membership program. Membership starts at R100 a month.
“We are currently doing a new member campaign during the months of March to May. Anyone who signs up for the five-year or Honorary Life Membership will go into a lucky draw to win a 1-hour river cruise on the Nahoon Barge and a ‘Bare it all for Cancer’ birthday calendar valued at R1700.”
Members are encouraged to help with more than just their money and get involved and assist by providing food or support for the patients.
For more information please contact: belinda.macdon@gmail.com
