For Cancer Patients & Families
What is Berrien County Cancer Service?
Berrien County Cancer Service is a local nonprofit organization that provides support, resources, and services to individuals and families affected by cancer in Berrien County, Michigan.
Who is eligible for services?
Anyone living in Berrien County who has received a cancer diagnosis may be eligible for services. Eligibility requirements vary by program.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
No. Patients, caregivers, family members, healthcare providers, and social workers can contact us directly.
How much do your services cost?
Our services are provided at no cost to eligible cancer patients thanks to the generosity of donors, grants, and community support.
Do you bill insurance?
No. We do not bill insurance companies for our services. All services are provided based on the generosity of the community.
What types of assistance do you provide?
We offer services such as:
- Durable medical equipment loans
- Nutrition support
- Emotional support programs
- Educational resources
- Wellness and survivorship programs
- In-home skilled medical professional visits directed by a physicians
What areas do you serve?
We serve residents throughout Berrien County, Michigan, and beyond if possible.
How do I apply for assistance?
Simply call our office, and a staff member will guide you through the process and determine which services may be helpful.
Can caregivers receive support?
Yes. We believe cancer affects the entire family, and caregivers are welcome to participate in many of our support and educational programs.
How quickly can services begin?
Many services can be arranged quickly, often within a few business days depending on the patient’s needs.
Resource Locker FAQ
What is the Resource Locker?
Our Resource Locker provides medical equipment and supportive care items that cancer patients may need during treatment and recovery.
What items are available?
Items may include
- Wheelchairs
- Transport chairs
- Walkers and rollators
- Canes
- Shower chairs
- Bedside commodes
- Nutrition supplements
- Incontinence supplies
- And many other supportive care items
Is there a fee to borrow equipment?
No. Equipment is loaned at no cost.
How long may I keep borrowed equipment?
Equipment may be used as long as it is needed during cancer treatment and recovery, subject to availability.
What should I do when I no longer need the equipment?
Please contact our office to arrange for the equipment to be returned so it can help another patient.
Medical Professional Services FAQ
What is an in-home medical professional visit?
A medical professional visits a patient at home to provide cancer-related support, most often a physician ordered blood draw to be delivered to a lab for testing.
Can your medical professional administer chemotherapy?
No. We do not provide chemotherapy treatment.
Who can help me understand my treatment plan?
We have volunteer patient advocates that can assist patients in understanding treatment plans.
Support Group & Wellness FAQ
Do you offer support groups?
Yes. We offer support opportunities designed to help patients and caregivers connect with others who understand the cancer journey. Some groups are lead by a licensed counselor and cancer survivor.
Do I have to share personal information in a support group?
No. Participation is voluntary, and members may share only what they are comfortable discussing.
Are support groups only for patients?
Some groups are designed for patients, while others may welcome caregivers and family members.
What wellness programs do you offer?
Programs vary but may include educational workshops, survivorship activities, stress reduction programs, and other wellness-focused opportunities.
Donor & Community FAQ
How is Berrien County Cancer Service Funded?
We are supported by individual donors, businesses, foundations, grants, fundraising events, and community organizations.
Does my donation stay local?
Yes. Donations support cancer patients and families within Berrien County.
What impact does my donation make?
Your support helps provide medical professional care, medical equipment, nutrition assistance, support programs, and other services at no cost to local cancer patients.
Can I donate medical equipment?
Many gently used items may be accepted. Please contact us before bringing equipment to ensure it meets current needs and safety standards.
Can I volunteer?
Yes. Volunteers help with events, activity support, outreach activities, and other important programs.
How can my business or organization help?
Businesses can support our mission through sponsorships, employee giving campaigns, fundraising events, in-kind donations, and volunteer efforts.
Is Berrien County Cancer Service funded by the county government?
No. BCCS has no affiliation with any government organizations, nor do we receive any government funds.
Is Berrien County Cancer Service a part of Corewell Health?
No. While our office resides in the Marie Yeager Cancer Center, we are a separate nonprofit organization. MYCC donates to us our office space and utilities (a savings of over $25,000 per year), which we greatly appreciate. We do partner with the oncology team of Corewell Health when it comes to medical professional services.
How is Berrien County Cancer Service different from national cancer organization?
Berrien County Cancer Service focuses exclusively on serving local cancer patients and families. Because we are community-based, we can respond quickly to local needs and provide personalized support close to home.
Why do you say, “So no one faces cancer alone?”
Because cancer impacts every aspect of a person’s life. Our vision is to provide strength, resilience, and solace through practical support, compassionate care, and a community that walks alongside patients throughout their cancer journey.