Diane Anderson is transforming her battle against cancer into a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges.
Diane was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, joining a troubling statistic of twelve teachers from the Hudson School District diagnosed with cancer within a decade. This started her on a path of advocacy, including the initiation of a Cancer Cluster Investigation with the Holden Cancer Center at the University of Iowa.
Through her own journey and those of her peers, Diane recognized the needs of under-resourced patients whose cancers progressed due to financial constraints and limited access to crucial care. “I would hear other cancer patients express that they may not be able to continue treatment and get follow-up scans due to financial issues with co-payments. Sitting in the waiting room overhearing this broke my heart,” says Diane.
In response to this need, Diane established the Accessing Cancer Treatment (ACT) Fund, which seeks to support those navigating the challenging landscape of cancer care. The Accessing Cancer Treatment Fund supports Cedar Valley hospitals and medical centers that help individuals overcome barriers to receiving early cancer screenings and treatment. Barriers may include help toward medical bill costs, copays, or transportation to appointments.
“All of my treatment, surgeries, and now post-cancer scans have taken place in the Cedar Valley and I cannot praise our medical professionals enough. It’s now my turn to pay it forward and help cancer patients get through their journey with limited financial barriers,” says Diane.
You can support the Accessing Cancer Treatment Fund by giving online or mailing a check to Waterloo Community Foundation, PO Box 1253, Waterloo, IA 50704 with “Accessing Cancer Treatment” in the memo line.
