Genesis Cancer Center, Gilda’s Club Create Partnership Of Patient Support

DAVENPORT, Iowa – Regional leaders in cancer care will work together to provide a comprehensive care and support system for patients.

The Genesis Cancer Center and Gilda’s Club Quad Cities are creating a partnership to complement the physical care of Genesis cancer patients with the social, emotional and educational support services of Gilda’s Club.

Gilda’s Club will open an office at the Genesis Cancer Center to introduce cancer patients to the educational and support services available from Gilda’s. The office is scheduled to open by May 1.

“This is a partnership that aligns two organizations with shared goals and values. It is also a partnership that will benefit patients in so many ways,’’ said Rob Nelson, M.D., Vice President of Clinical Services, Genesis Medical Center.  “Genesis and Gilda’s Club share many qualities that afford both organizations a high profile in the community.

“Both organizations are locally based and managed and both are recognized for their expertise in cancer care.’’

Gilda’s Club Quad Cities provides social, emotional and educational support to those diagnosed with cancer and their families. 

“We are excited about this partnership and what it will mean for cancer patients and their families,’’ said Claudia Robinson, Executive Director, Gilda’s Club Quad Cities.  “Studies have indicated that patients and their families who receive the appropriate emotional support when living with cancer have a higher tolerance for treatment and recover more quickly.’’

The Gilda’s Club program is based upon four key components:

• Emotional support for people with cancer, including Breast Cancer Support Group, Living With Cancer In Your 20s and 30s, Melanoma Networking Group and Lymphoma Networking.
• An educational component that features guest lectures by medical professionals on topics such as New Treatments, Pain Management, How to Talk to Your Children About Cancer, Estate Planning, What to Expect During Treatment, as well as Art Therapy, Music, Relaxation and other creative outlets.
• Social events provide members the opportunity to celebrate life and one another.
• Strength and endurance through treatment is highlighted through an introductory fitness program. Those affected by cancer may take advantage of a variety of fitness equipment under the supervision of physical therapists.

The services available at Gilda’s Club Quad Cities are free to all users.

The Genesis Cancer Center offers comprehensive cancer services from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, treatment from skilled physicians and oncology-certified nurses, multiple treatment options and end-of-life-care services. Genesis also participates in as many as 60 cancer prevention and treatment trials at any one time. Last fall, the Genesis Cancer program earned six of a possible seven commendations and received approval with commendation from the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons.

To contact Gilda’s Club, call (563) 326-7504. To contact the Genesis Cancer Center, call (563) 421-1900.
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