Apr. 27--The Legal Information Network for Cancer, which provides cancer patients with referrals to legal and financial professionals in the Richmond area, is expanding into the Tri-Cities region.
LINC provides support to cancer patients by referring them to financial planners and lawyers who can assist them with insurance, housing and employment concerns. LINC counselors and outreach coordinators also participate in support groups and assist patients with other basic life needs.
"Cancer brings with it all sorts of issues that are not directly medical -- the issues are legal and financial primarily," said Ann Hodges, LINC's co-founder and a board member.
Hodges, who is a law professor at the University of Richmond, said LINC has helped more than 3,000 cancer patients since its start in 1996.
Patients are referred to the organization by hospitals, doctors and local charities familiar with the organization, said Brenda Hagg, outreach and education coordinator.
"That's a very natural area for us to expand," said Hodges, who also is a cancer survivor.
She said LINC's expansion was made possible as a result of two recent grants.
A $52,000 grant from the Cameron Foundation will make the outreach program possible in the Tri-Cities, while a $36,000 grant from the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation will help pay for outreach and education in that specific area, Hodges said.
To launch the service expansion, LINC will hold an informational meeting for cancer patients or agencies and people interested in LINC on Thursday from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Petersburg Department of Social Services, 400 Farmer St.
For details about LINC or the meeting, call (804) 378-5462 or send an e-mail to clientservices@cancerlinc.org.
Contact Luz Lazo at (804) 649-6058 or llazo@timesdispatch.com.
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