Resources for Spanish-speaking families coping with cancer

If you ask the person next to you if they know of anyone who has or had cancer they will most likely tell you that they do.

Cancer is no stranger to most people because it has become a prevalent disease. It comes in different forms and has affected families and communities throughout the United States and the world.

In this day and age there are several treatments available to deal with the various cancers out there. There are also the many hospitals and clinics, and the thoughtful physicians and specialists overseeing the care of their patients.

Cancer patients are not uniform by nature. Many find themselves having to not only deal with fighting for their life, but must also find the necessary support they need during this difficult time. One of their concerns may be having to deal with the language barrier. They may not readily know where they can turn to to receive support to confront this disease.

There are however, several organizations trying to bridge this gap. Below you will find a list of national and local organizations whose goal is to provide that support to cancer patients and their families. Please contact organizations directly for more information about the services they provide. Consult with your physician.

The American Cancer Society provides invaluable information to Spanish-speaking cancer patients. The organization lists information about different cancer types, which are found in a dropdown menu or by clicking on links when you scroll down the home page of ACS’s website. Visit www.cancer.org/Espanol or call 1-800-227-2345 to find out more.

The Mayo Clinic is internationally recognized for its research and services provided at its facilities. It is renowned for its breast cancer research, having treated and diagnosing more than 1,300 cases every year. The Mayo Clinic is also well-known for its work in treating prostate cancer and the advance technology they utilize in order to do so. Learn more by visit www.mayoclinic.org/espanol.

The National Alliance for Hispanic Health is a national nonprofit organization whose mission is to see more Latinos have an overall healthier well-being. The Alliance also provides support to family members through The National Hispanic Family Health Helpline, Su Familia, (1-866-Su-Familia (783-2645)) where callers are provided pertinent English and Spanish-language information that includes cancer and cancer treatment. Visit www.hispanichealth.org.

In 1998, medical students from the University of Colorado established Wapiyapi, a nonprofit organization helping not only children with cancer, but also offering support to their families. The organization offers summer camps at no cost where children gain valuable support from fellow campers and adult volunteers. Wapiyapi also has family retreats that allow them to become that much more united during this difficult time. The local organization now offers the Nuestra Fuerza program, which targets Spanish-speaking families. For more information about Wapiyapi, visit www.wapiyapi.org or call 303-534-0883*.