An open house Nov. 12 at the American Cancer Society's Cancer Resource Center gave Gila Valley residents a chance to learn what services are available locally.

The Cancer Resource Center has been situated in Mount Graham Regional Medical Center's Cancer Center for more than three years. Hospital spokesman Ryan Rapier said the Cancer Resource Center began offering services in September 2006.

The center's volunteers assist people in finding information about specific types of cancer and the treatments that are available. They also help cancer patients choose wigs, hats and other gift items, according to the society. Wigs are available at no charge to cancer patients.

Cancer Resource Center volunteers Eileen McEuen, left, and Carol Siltala look at wigs and other items that are given to local cancer patients. Photo by Diane Saunders

Tracelyn Sutton, quality of life manager for the Cancer Resource Center, said the society's goal is to have at least one resource center in each community where cancer treatments are offered.

"The challenge is letting people know we're here," Sutton said.

At the open house, guests visited displays that showcased several programs. For example, the Look Good ... Feel Better program addresses a patient's appearance as it relates to side effects of cancer treatment. A one-time, two-hour session is for women currently in cancer treatment. Licensed cosmetologists demonstrate techniques to overcome some of the visible challenges brought on by treatments.

Another service is the guest room program, which provides free or reduced-price hotel rooms for patients who must travel to receive treatments. For example, radiation therapy is not available in Safford. Patients who need radiation must travel to another city to receive it.

Sutton said volunteers play an important role at the Cancer Resource Center.

"They're here to do anything they can to make their (cancer patients) journey easier," Sutton said.

The society would like to bring additional services to the community, including Road to Recovery, Reach to Recovery and I Can Cope. For more information about any of the following programs call 800-227-2345.

Road to Recovery provides transportation for cancer patients. Drivers are volunteers who donate their time and vehicle to enable patients to receive cancer treatment.

Reach to Recovery is designed to help women cope with their breast cancer experience. Volunteers are breast cancer survivors who are trained to offer support at various points — from diagnosis to returning to a full, active life.

I Can Cope is an educational program for cancer patients and caregivers.

For more information about the local Cancer Resource Center call 348-3769.