(Rye Brook, NY – September 13, 2017) –The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) today announced the extension of its hurricane relief program set up last week to assist blood cancer patients in Texas and Louisiana affected by Hurricane Harvey, to provide direct support to blood cancer patients hit by Hurricane Irma. The world’s largest non-profit dedicated to fighting blood cancers, LLS committed up to $1 million in direct donations to blood cancer patients.
Patients with a confirmed blood cancer diagnosis, living in U.S. mainland and U.S. territories impacted by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, are eligible to receive $500 to help with cancer-related necessities such as transportation to treatment, lost or damaged medications and other needs directly related to the hurricane. (Patients and caregivers should visit http://www.lls.org/hurricane-relief-program for more information on designated assistance areas and to access the application form.)
“Living with a blood cancer is extremely challenging; a national disaster adds a new level of danger and stress,” said Louis J. DeGennaro, Ph.D., president and CEO of LLS. “As a ‘patients first’ organization we are determined to provide critical support directly to those who need it. Patients’ lives literally depend on it.”
“LLS serves the Southeast and the Gulf Coast of Texas through several local Chapters in those areas, and we continue to support blood cancer patients and their families during this extremely difficult time,” DeGennaro said. “These communities have always supported LLS, walking in Light The Night, running with Team In Training and volunteering in so many ways to support cancer patients, and we’re here to support them in this special time of need.”
Beyond the disaster relief program, LLS provides a wide range of free resources, education and support for all blood cancer patients, survivors and families across the country; this includes co-pay assistance and other programs to help ensure access to quality, affordable and coordinated care. Details can be found at www.lls.org.
About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS) is the world's largest voluntary health agency dedicated to blood cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world, provides free information and support services, and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care.
Founded in 1949 and headquartered in Rye Brook, NY, LLS has chapters throughout the United States and Canada. To learn more, visit www.LLS.org. Patients should contact the Information Resource Center at (800) 955‐4572 or www.LLS.org/informationspecialists, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.
Contact:
Linda Heaney
914.821.8208