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Bridging Gaps in Rural Southwest Virginia Cancer Care

Backed by events like the recent Harold Lester Memorial Golf Tournament, the partnership between the University of Virginia Cancer Center and Mountain Empire Older Citizens (MEOC) plays a vital role in providing cancer support to Southwest Virginia. The golf tournament raises funds for MEOC’s Mountain Laurel Cancer Support and Resource Center (MLCC), demonstrating continued commitment to cancer care and support.

“Our decade-long partnership with MEOC reflects our shared dedication to supporting the efforts to reduce the cancer burden in the region. By leveraging combined resources and expertise, we are able to deliver research as well as cancer early detection and prevention programs that best address the needs of the community,” said Wendy Cohn, PhD, associate director of UVA Cancer Center.

MOUNTAIN LAUREL CANCER SUPPORT AND RESOURCE CENTER

The resource center has been at the forefront of efforts to reduce the burden of cancer in the Lenowisco health district, which includes Lee, Wise and Scott counties along with the city of Norton. The center provides education on cancer prevention, early detection, treatment and resources to the community. MLCC also offers nutritional supplements and financial assistance to help with unforeseen expenses patients may incur during treatment.

Funds from the golf tournament directly support cancer patients by providing liquid nutrition, home-delivered meals, and financial aid within the service area.

“By aligning resources and expertise, we are better positioned to address the unique needs of Southwest Virginia. The golf tournament funds are vital to the support of the resource center, specifically funding cancer education, such as the Understanding Cancer educational program and the cost of printing the educational newsletters,” said Tiffany Jacobs, director of wellness and insurance counseling with Mountain Laurel Cancer Support and Resource Center.   Read More>