Mercy Caritas Grant Awarded to Cancer Support Foundation

June 25, 2008 – (Fort Smith, AR) On Tuesday, June 17, Jerry Stevenson, CEO of the St. Edward Mercy Health System, presented a check in the amount of $50,000 to Mary Lee Frase, executive director of the Cancer Support Foundation, for A Helping Hand for Cancer Support, a program offered by the Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House.   

The check was presented by Stevenson, Ron Cox, vice president of Development for St. Edward Mercy Health System, and Regina Mason, executive director of the St. Edward Mercy Foundation on behalf of the Sisters of Mercy Health System.

“Emotional support makes a major positive difference in the way people cope with cancer,” said Frase. “The funding from the Mercy Caritas grant will enable us to seek more patient participation in support groups that provide information, guide those recently diagnosed, and provide a group dynamic that enhances quality of life for members as well as reinforcing their celebration of life even when faced with disease recurrence.”

Each year, Mercy awards Mercy Caritas grants for community-based programs that improve community health and well-being, with particular concern for people who are economically poor.

A Helping Hand for Cancer Support seeks to solidify and expand the mission of the Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House to provide emotional support and emergency financial assistance with particular emphasis in Logan, Franklin, and Scott counties.

The funds from this grant will help identify and assist more cancer patient participation in the cancer support programs at both the Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House and in rural communities.

“Reaching out to families and healthcare providers within the rural communities is key to making them aware of the support programs we provide,” said Frase. “Working with North Logan Mercy Hospital, Scott County Mercy Hospital and Mercy Hospital Turner Memorial will open the door for increasing that assistance to them.”

Mercy Caritas considers innovative programs that are consistent with Mercy’s Mission and Vision. 

“The Donald W. Reynolds Cancer Support House is an excellent facility whose mission is in line with that of St. Edward Mercy,” said Stevenson. “We appreciate the supportive services they provide to those going through cancer treatment. This grant will help them fund programs to better our community and those living with cancer.”