Helpful Cancer Resources

I'm incredibly grateful for Can Do Cancer. Can Do Cancer is a non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of cancer patients receiving IV infusion chemotherapy at a Des Moines (IA) or Ames (IA) treatment center. Can Do Cancer provides dinner for patients and their families on chemotherapy days, house cleaning services throughout treatment, a website for patients to learn what they need to know after a cancer diagnosis and patient partner support throughout treatment.

A family friend told me about this non-profit. At first I was on the fence saying, no there are people out there that need help more than us. We have our family, friends and God to get us through. It wasn't until I sat down and looked at the website that I became humble to ask for help. Just read this section from the Meet the Founder page and you will agree:

"Cancer is a long journey that doesn’t need to be walked alone. Even if you have a supportive family and friend network nearby, cancer can be hard on everyone. I know you CAN DO CANCER, and we’re here to help you through it."

There are a variety of resources available to cancer patients. I know first-hand, figuring out where to start can be intimidating.

While many of these are focused on Lymphoma Cancer make sure to check with your oncology team to find out what resources are available to you locally (counseling, support groups, financial assistance, education, care coordinators, classes…etc.).

American Cancer Society

I'm so glad someone suggested Cancer Support Community. While I do have experience in healthcare, so much of what we were told or what I was reading made no sense to me. Side bar...true or false I don't know but I'm going to believe it. Cancer Support Group is connected to Gilda's Club...as in Gilda from SNL. Of course, this is going to be a regular man's website with humor and support throughout. I suspect this will be a helpful tool for both David & I as we continue down this journey.

National Cancer Institute

Kind of like Daily Dietitian, The Intelligent Nutrition Assistant (INA), is like having a dietitian in our pocket with questions and resources. I appreciate that this is a free service for many health concerns and as easy as a text message.

INA

David is already going through a lot battling Lymphoma. I don't want to add any additional stress or unneeded side effects with the wrong food. While he still makes decision on what's to eat, this website has been a God-send of ideas. The Daily Dietitian (AKA Stacy) is a local mom, registered dietitian, and personal trainer dedicated to helping others fuel their bodies in a simple, sustainable, and satisfying way. With over 20 years of experience as a registered dietitian, she's helped countless people build a foundation of healthy habits that improve overall metabolic health. This specific link is an example of a few recipes catered to patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Check back to see what other resources we stumble across during this journey

Connect

© 2025. All rights reserved.