The Journal

The Montelores Cancer Care Assistance program in February granted its 50th cancer care grant, which provides cancer patients and their families with up to $1,000 for transportation and living expenses during their cancer treatment, according to a news release from Southwest Memorial Hospital Foundation.

The grant, started in 2014, is awarded by the hospital foundation, using locally raised funds. It has given out $50,000 in just three years, Haley Leonard Saunders, marketing director at Southwest Health Systems, said in an email.

The foundation news release quoted a local recipient of the program, Justine Bayles, who was grateful for the assistance.

“The Montelores Cancer Care Assistance program helped close the chapter in my breast cancer journey,” said Bayles. “With the support of the Foundation, my last reconstructive surgery was performed.”

Funds were raised through events including the Ride of the Ancients, Demolition Derby, silent auction, garage sale at the SHS annex on Market Street, McPhee boating with Blondie’s Trophy Room, babysitting certification course, and online Advent calendar. A silent auction will be May 5, and will also be hosted online on Southwest Health’s Facebook page, @SWhealthsystem.

Physicians may complete a form for a patient who may need cancer care assistance. The Southwest Memorial Hospital Foundation also supports health care education with a scholarship fund that benefits locals who want to pursue a health care career or higher education. The scholarship is supported by the Made in Montezuma food and wine event in the fall.

For more information about Southwest Memorial Hospital Foundation, visit www.swhealth.org.