Additional Resources
Empower yourself with knowledge
Gilda's Club is the only cancer support organization in the Chicago area partnered with Cancer Support Community (CSC), a national network offering support across the country. This partnership provides access to additional resources.
CSC offers services like the Cancer Support Helpline, available Monday through Friday to assist with treatment decisions, financial help, genetic counseling, and other national services. They also provide valuable information, including the "Frankly Speaking about Cancer" series, which covers various cancer-related topics. Visit cancersupportcommunity.org for more information.
Below is a list of additional cancer support resources and organizations for our community. At Gilda's Club Chicago, we understand that each person's journey is unique, and we offer these resources as tools to support your path, not as recommendations.
Is Cancer in Your Life?
Call the Cancer Support Helpline
at 888-793-9355
Monday–Thursday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. ET Friday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. ET
Need someone to talk to about your cancer experience? The Cancer Support Helpline offers free, personalized navigation by phone and online, connecting you to resources, support groups, counseling, and expert guidance on treatment, finances, clinical trials, and more.
National Resources
Air Care Alliance: Patient and Medical Transport
Volunteer Pilot Organizations help patients in need access distant medical care or supportive services by arranging free flights through volunteer pilots.
Dedicated to helping persons who face cancer; supports research, patient services, early detection, treatment and education.
American Institute for Cancer Research
AICR champions the latest and most authoritative scientific research from around the world on cancer prevention and survival through diet, weight and physical activity.
Cancer and Careers empowers and educates people with cancer to thrive in their workplace by providing expert advice, interactive tools and educational events.
Provides free telephone resource navigation, whether you are in treatment, post-treatment, survivor or caregiver.
Free and confidential one-on-one suport to cancer patients and their families.
The Cancer Support Community is an international non-profit dedicated to providing support, education and hope to people affected by cancer. Cancer support helpline: 888-793-9355
The Care Partner Project is dedicated to demystifying health care with plain language and simple “to do” checklists so all of us can support our loved ones’ care – with confidence and grace. The result vulnerable patients have informed, capable and proactive Care Partners and providers can rely on Care Partners to support care and recovery.
College Consultants Care provides free college application assistance from experience independent educational consultants to students diagnosed with cancer or have a parent diagnosed with cancer.
A national non-profit charitable organization that lifts the burden of chronic illness through assistance, advocacy, and awareness. Only certain diagnoses are covered. Services include co-pay assistance, travel assistance, premium assistance, and diagnostic testing assistance.
Grants to offset the cost of scalp cooling treatment to minimize hair loss during chemotherapy.
Provides personalized connections that enable 1-on-1 support among cancer fighters, survivors and caregivers.
A non profit organization that helps cancer patients and their families find a place to stay when traveling away from home for medical treatment. We list cancer treatment centers and hospitals across the country with nearby lodging facilitating that offer a discount.
The LIVESTRONG Foundation improves the lives of people affected by cancer now. The Foundation povides free services for cancer patients and survivors today and advocates for policies that improve their access to care and quality of life.
This online resource provides a customizable communication platform and blog space that connects patients and caregivers to their larger support network. This is an online program of the Cancer Support Community.
The National LGBT Cancer Network works to improve the lives of LGBT cancer survivors and those at risk by educating the LGBT community about our increased cancer risks and the importance of screening and early detection; training health care providers to offer more culturally-competent, safe and welcome care; and advocating for LGBT survivors in mainstream cancer organizations, the media and research.
Our case managers offer free, one-on-one support to patients and families to help them solve real life problems related to a serious health condition. We help patients understand their choices to make healthy decisions for a strong recovery.
Dedicated to helping survivors, caregivers, and healthcare professionals navigate cancer survivorship issues by connecting them to experts, information, and resources.
Organizations for Specific Cancers
| Bladder | Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network
BCAN was founded in 2005 and is the only national advocacy organization devoted to advancing bladder cancer research and supporting those impacted by the disease. The mission of BCAN is to increase public awareness about bladder cancer, advance bladder cancer research, and provide educational and support services for the bladder cancer community. |
| Bone | The Chordoma Foundation The Chordoma Foundation is a resource for anyone affected by chordoma. They're here to help you understand the disease, learn about how it's treated, find qualified doctors, and connect with others in the chordoma community. |
| Brain | American Brain Tumor Association
The mission of the American Brain Tumor Association is to advance the understanding and treatment of brain tumors with the goals of improving, extending and, ultimately, saving the lives of those impacted by a brain tumor diagnosis.
The National Brain Tumor Society is the largest patient advocacy organization in the United States committed to curing brain tumors and improving the lives of patients and families. |
| Breast | A Silver Lining Foundation
To provide respectful and equal access to cost-free breast health testing through a network of partnerships with community, advocacy and healthcare organizations. Breast Cancer Research Foundation The Breast Cancer Research Foundation's mission is to prevent and cure breast cancer by advancing the world’s most promising research.
ELLAS (En La Lucha a Sobrevivir, or in the Fight to Survive) is a breast cancer awareness and support group for women who have survived or are being treated for breast cancer. Latina Association for Breast Cancer ALAS-WINGS, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is dedicated to empowering Hispanic/Latina women about breast cancer awareness through comprehensive education and support for all women faced with breast cancer diagnosis and survivorship. ROW is a rowing team that gives survivors of breast cancer the unique opportunity to interact, become active in the recovery and gain support from fellow survivors. Susan G. Komen's mission is to save lives by meeting the most critical needs in our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer. Sisters Network (local) | Sisters Network (national) The nation's largest African American breast cancer survivorship organization National not-for-profit organization supporting young women and their families, of all Jewish backgrounds, facing breast cancer. Unite for HER (Help Empower and Restore) is a national nonprofit organization that supports breast cancer and ovarian cancer patients by providing integrative therapies, services, education, resources, and support at no personal cost. |
| Colorectal | Colon Cancer Alliance |
| Gynecological | National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC)
NOCC is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness, promoting education, and supporting ovarian cancer survivors and caregivers across the country. Unite for HER Unite for HER (Help Empower and Restore) is a national nonprofit organization that supports breast cancer and ovarian cancer patients by providing integrative therapies, services, education, resources, and support at no personal cost. |
| Hereditary | BASSER Research Center (University of Pennsylvania)
The Basser Center for BRCA is the first comprehensive center for the research, treatment, and prevention of BRCA-related cancers. These hereditary mutations affect both men and women and can be passed down from either parent. FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered FORCE improves the lives of the millions of individuals and families facing hereditary breast, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, colorectal and endometrial cancers. |
| Kidney | Kidney Cancer Association (KCA)
The KCA promotes scientific advances through two annual research symposiums and a robust grant program, participates in legislative advocacy, and seeks to be a source of education and resources for patients, caregivers, and anyone impacted by kidney cancer. |
| Leukemia & Lymphoma | Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
The mission of LLC is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families through research, policy and advocacy, and patient support. Leukemia Research Foundation The Leukemia Research Foundation’s mission is to cure leukemia by funding innovative research, and to support patients and families. Through lymphoma-specific research grants and consortia, LRF seeks to better understand the more than 100 subtypes of lymphoma and support the development of new treatments. Simultaneously, LRF works tirelessly to help patients, survivors caregivers, and families understand their diagnosis and ensure they have access to the support and resources they need. |
| Liver | American Liver Foundation (ALF)
ALF’s mission is to promote education, advocacy, support services and research for the prevention, treatment and cure of liver disease. |
| Lung | GO2 for Lung Cancer
GO2 for Lung Cancer provides one-on-one assistance, supportive connections, treatment information, information on the latest research and special initiatives that increase survivorship, and advocates for improving health policies and leading public awareness. Respiratory Health Association Respiratory Health Association’s mission is to prevent lung disease, promote clean air and help people live better through education, research, and policy change. |
| Skin | Melanoma Research Foundation
The Melanoma Research Foundation is committed to the support of medical research in finding effective treatments and eventually a cure for melanoma, the MRF also educates patients and physicians about prevention, diagnosis and the treatment of melanoma. Skin Cancer Foundation The Skin Cancer Foundation empowers people to take a proactive approach to daily sun protection and the early detection and treatment of skin cancer. |
| Mesothelioma | Mesothelioma.net
Provides people living with mesothelioma cancer and their families with top-quality free information and resources via our website, as well as the best medical and financial assistance to those who request our help. |
| Myeloma | International Myeloma Foundation (IMF)
The IMF is dedicated to improving the quality of life of myeloma patients while working toward prevention and a cure through our four pillars: Research, Education, Support, and Advocacy. Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation Drive the development and delivery of next-generation therapies, leverage data to identify optimal and more personalized treatment approaches and empower myeloma patients and the broader community with information and resources to extend their lives. |
| Oral, Head and Neck | SPOHNC: Support for People with Oral, Head and Neck Cancer
Meets the psychosocial needs of patients as well as preserving, restoring, and promoting physical and emotional health. |
| Pancreatic | Pancreatic Cancer Action Network
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network's mission is to take bold action to improve the lives of everyone impacted by pancreatic cancer by advancing scientific research, building community, sharing knowledge, and advocating for patients. Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation's mission is to provide personal support to those affected by Pancreatic Cancer through tailored resources, connections and education, and funding for early detection research. |
| Prostate | Zero Prostate Cancer
ZERO is the primary destination for all impacted by the disease to convene, get support and education, and come together as one united voice to create a better future for the prostate cancer community. Prostate Cancer Research Institute (PCRI) PCRI is a not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to helping you research your treatment options. |
| Thyroid | Thyroid Cancer Survivor's Association
The Thyroid Cancer Survivor's Association's mission is to educate and support the global thyroid cancer community and invest in research. |
| Transplant Resources | National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP)
NMDP has managed the most diverse marrow registry in the world. We work every day to save lives through transplant. |
Youth
12 Oaks
Helps defray the costs of sports and community programs for children and families impacted by cancer and financial hardship.
Bear Necessities
Provides hope and support to children impacted by cancer through bear hugs, financial assistance for the family and various social events.
Cal’s Angels
Cal’s Angels is a 501©(3) pediatric cancer foundation with a mission of granting wishes, raising awareness, and
funding research to help kids fighting cancer.
Camp Quality USA
Camp Quality serves children with cancer and their families by providing year-round programs, experiences,
and companionship, at no cost. Camp Quality hosts week-long overnight summer camps at 16+ locations in 13
states.
Children’s Leukemia Research Association
The mission of CLRA is to fund blood cancer research, find the causes and cures of leukemia and other blood-
related disorders, and help families with blood cancer-related expenses for children and adults.
Children’s Oncology Services Inc (Camp One Step)
Offers children the opportunity to enjoy the experiences of childhood while living with cancer, through camps, excursions, education and scholarships.
The Living Room (formerly Group Loop)
Online community designed to address the needs of teens through the Cancer Support Community.
Make-a-Wish
Grants wishes to eligible children with life threatening medical conditions to enrich the human spirit with hope, strength and joy.
Stupid Cancer
Stupid Cancer helps to empower everyone affected by adolescent and young adult cancer by ending isolation and
building community.
Super Sibs
National nonprofit organization ensuring that siblings of children with cancer are honored, supported and recognized so they may face the future with strength, courage and hope.
Young Adults
Stupid Cancer
Stupid Cancer helps to empower everyone affected by adolescent and young adult cancer by ending isolation and
building community.
Survive and Thrive Expeditions, Inc.
Survive & Thrive Expeditions Inc. is dedicated to combining travel, adventure and in-depth reflection and exploration of the cancer journey into one unique life changing experience.
Young Survival Coalition
Non-profit organization oriented to support and educate about breast cancer in younger women
The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults
Provide tailored emotional, financial, educational, physical, and practical support services. Programs include; cancer to 5k, scholarships, remote patient navigation.
First Descents
Provides life-changing outdoor adventures for young adults (ages 18-39) impacted by cancer.
For Women
Cancer can take away many of the things that make you feel like a woman. Fighting Pretty is here to remind women battling all types of cancer, at any stage of treatment, they are strong, beautiful, fierce and amazing. Join the Fighting Pretty Through Cancer Facebook group.
Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP)
The Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program offers free mammograms, breast exams, pelvic exams and Pap tests to eligible women. Even if a woman has already been diagnosed with cancer, she may receive free treatment if she qualifies. The program has been providing breast and cervical cancer screenings to the women of Illinois since 1995.
Free and reduced-fee alternative or holistic therapy services for women living with cancer.
For Men
Cancer Dudes
Empowering men to thrive after cancer.
Nutrition
Cook for your Life
We empower people affected by cancer to achieve better health through nutrition.
Ina®, The Intelligent Nutrition Assistant from Savor Health®
Ina® provides personalized, evidence-based nutrition support at no cost for people with cancer. Nutrition tips, recipes and answers to questions come from registered dietitian nutritionists, nurses and doctors who are experts in treating and supporting cancer patients. Registration and unlimited 24/7 access to these services are free, HIPAA compliant and secure.
Ina® is a trademark of Savor Health®
Grief and Bereavement
Five Wishes
The nation’s only national advance care planning program.
*Gilda’s Club encourages you to speak to your medical team about advance care planning, including
but not limited to, when filling out the Five Wishes or other advance care planning documentation to
ensure they are aware of your choices and decisions.
The Compassionate Friends
Whether your family has had a child die (at any age from any cause) or you are trying to help those who have
gone through this life-altering experience, The Compassionate Friends exists to provide friendship,
understanding and hope to those going through the natural grieving process.
SLAP'D (Surviving Life After a Parent Dies)
This organization provides support and resources to young people who are coping with the death of a parent.
Financial and Legal Assistance
Cancer1Source
Through Cancer Resource Foundation, this organization assists in providing financial assistance for genetic screening co-pays (or free screenings in those who are not insured in certain states).
CARPLS
CARPLS is a 501©(3) legal aid nonprofit. We help residents find solutions to everyday legal matters in
Cook County and throughout Illinois.
Cancer Care Co-Payment Assistance Foundation
Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition
A coalition of organizations helping cancer patients manage their financial challenges.
Cancer Legal Resource Center (CLRC)
The CLRC provides information and education about cancer-related legal issues to the public through its national telephone assistance line. The CLRC also conducts national education and outreach programs for community groups, employers and healthcare professionals and is actively involved in community activities to raise public awareness of cancer-related legal and public policy issues.
Family Reach
Financial support for families facing cancer.
HealthWell Foundation
Helping the underinsured afford critical medical treatments — because no one should go without essential care.
Heaps of Hope
Financial assistance for women living with cancer
Illinois State Bar Association: Illinois Lawyer Finder
Finding an ISBA lawyer to help you with your legal problem is easy and often free. The ISBA offers two ways to
find a lawyer through this website.
LawHelp.Org
Helping you find solutions to legal problems
Triage Cancer – Cancer Finances
A Toolkit for Navigating Finances after Cancer
Suburban Support
Aurora
Waterford Place in Aurora
Geneva
Living Well Cancer Resource Center
Grayslake
Cancer Wellness Center North
Hinsdale
Wellness House
Homewood/Mokena
The Cancer Support Center
Munster, IN
Cancer Resource Centre
Normal, IL
Community Cancer Center
Northbrook
Cancer Wellness Center
Rockford
OSF Healing Pathways in Rockford
Local Resources
211 Metro Chicago
Chicago and Suburban Cook County residents now have access to a local 2-1-1 service, a free 24/7/365 service
that connects residents to essential health and social service support and information during times of non-
emergency crisis and for everyday needs.
Chicago Commons
Chicago Commons’ mission is to empower individuals, families, and communities to overcome poverty and
systemic barriers, embrace opportunities, and thrive across generations. To fulfill that mission, we provide high
quality early childhood education, family-center adult education, and senior services. Senior Care includes in-
home care and adult day services.
Cleaning for a Reason
Two free house cleanings for patients in active treatment for cancer
Culinary Care
Free meal delivery for individuals or families impacted by cancer.
IMD Guesthouse
Provides affordable accommodations to serve as a home-away-from-home for families and friends of loved ones receiving medical care in the Illinois Medical District area.
J. Crager Alternatives
Specializes in helping women (and men) who are experiencing hair loss as a result of chemotherapy or other medical disorders or treatment.
Fresh Tech Maids
(847) 392-0888
Free cleaning service for members currently undergoing chemotherapy treatment. (Additional requirements may apply)
Second Act
A boutique where individuals facing the challenge of living with cancer can learn about and
purchase products to help them regain and maintain a positive self-image.