“You have cancer.” 

Every hour, 26 Canadians are expected to be diagnosed with cancer.^[1] Two in five Canadians will hear these words in their lifetime.^[1] 

Thankfully, people are also living longer with cancer, further escalating the need for support. ^[1] 

We all know the importance of cancer research and medical treatment. However, those living with cancer know that the steps to recovery, the mindset of living well, and the hope of living longer with cancer, all require support and resources beyond the medical umbrella. 

How do Wellspring’s programs help people living with cancer and caregivers? 

Over 600 Canadians are diagnosed with cancer every day ^[2]. In addition to dealing with pain, nausea and fatigue, many are worried about their families, finances, jobs and future. For many, significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges persist for years after diagnosis, and for some, the situation seems unrecoverable. 

More than 1 in 2 patients with cancer report they have symptoms causing distress during treatment. Of these: ^[3] 

The emotional distress (of a cancer patient with unmet emotional needs) can escalate to significant levels where it can compromise adherence to therapy, increase utilization of other healthcare services and elevate costs for care.^[5] 

Wellspring has devoted its work to address these non-medical impacts of cancer. Research shows cancer patients who participate in the types of programs offered at Wellspring experience improved mental health resulting in higher quality of life and lower healthcare costs.^[6] 

In other words, Wellspring’s programs and supports benefit cancer patients, caregivers and their families, and reduce the strain on healthcare resources.