Supporting caregivers of cancer patients is crucial. As a caregiver, you are the unsung hero, providing not just physical assistance but also emotional and spiritual support to your loved one during a time that can be overwhelming. Your commitment and compassion make a significant difference in the lives of those you care for.

Whether you seek practical advice, emotional support, or simply a space to share your experiences, we are here for you. The following resources, both online and offline, are at your disposal:

1. Cancer Support Organizations:

   • Cancer Support VI

   • American Cancer Society (ACS)

   • CancerCare

   • National Cancer Institute (NCI)

   • Cancer Support Community

2. Online Support Communities:

   • Cancer Survivors Network

   • Inspire's Cancer Support Community

   • Caregiver Action Network's online forums

3. Educational Websites:

   • Cancer.gov (National Cancer Institute)

   • Cancer.net (American Society of Clinical Oncology)

   • Cancer Fighters

4. Books and Literature:

   • "The Caregiver's Journey: Compassionate and Informed Care for a Loved One" by Todd F. Cope (purchase from Amazon)

   • "Chicken Soup for the Soul: Family Caregivers" by Joan Lunden and Amy Newmark (purchase from Amazon)

   • "The Complete Cancer Organizer: Your Answers to Questions About Living with Cancer" by Jamie Schwachter and Josette Snyder (purchase from Amazon)

5. Online Caregiver Platforms:

   • Lotsa Helping Hands

   • CaringBridge

   • Caregiver Action Network

6. Financial Assistance Programs:

   • Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition (CFAC)

   • Patient Advocate Foundation

7. Government Assistance Programs:

   • Medicaid (also known as VI Medical Assistance Program [MAP])

   • Medicare

   • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

8. Respite Care Services:

   • Some local home health agencies do offer respite care to provide caregivers with a break. Please speak to the representatives at our clinic for current information and resources.

9. Practical Help Services & LOCAL SUPPORT PROGRAMS:

   • Catholic Charities VI offers a food delivery service, rental & utility assistance, and an elderly program

   • Dept of Human Services Office of Senior Citizens Affairs offers the Foster Grandparent Program, the Homemaker Services Program, Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged, and Meals on Wheels

   • The Virgin Islands Family Caregiver Support Program offers a variety of services

   • Cleaning services or assistance with household chores

   • VI Source: Caregiving in the USVI part 1, part 2, part 3

10. Telehealth Services:

    • Virtual support groups and counseling services for caregivers are also available, please refer to our counseling page

11. Hospice and Palliative Care Resources:

    • National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO)

    • Hospice Foundation of America

12. Legal and Financial Planning Resources:

    • Cancer Legal Resource Center

    • Finding Financial Planners Sensitive to Cancer Issues

13. Mobile Apps for Caregivers:

    • CareZone

    • Lotsa Helping Hands