Halos of Hope, ASTRO partner to raise awareness of cancer survivorship

As part of its continued effort to give back to the communities in the cities visited during its annual scientific meeting, the Fairfax, Va.-based American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) is partnering with Halos of Hope to raise awareness of cancer survivorship.

Halos of Hope will work with ASTRO by participating in the Survivor Circle exhibit at ASTRO's 51st Annual Meeting, scheduled for November 1-5, 2009, at McCormick Place West in Chicago. The Survivor Circle was created to recognize those living with a diagnosis of cancer. This year, it will focus on the programs offered by Chicago-area cancer organizations helping patients and their families cope with this disease. Within the Survivor Circle, there is a place for attendees to learn more about Halos of Hope. Halos of Hope received this opportunity, along with a $10,000 grant, through the Survivor Circle Grant Program. It was one of two groups chosen from 10 applications received this year.

"We are excited to work with this up and coming organization," Tim R. Williams, President of ASTRO said. "Our patients and their families rely on the programs offered by groups like Halos of Hope and their program is fully deserving of this grant and the opportunity to educate our members about the work they do to assist those living with cancer."

Pamela Haschke, founder of Halos of Hope said her organization is very appreciative of ASTRO's support.

"Radiation therapy is a key component to any cancer treatment plan. We are honored to receive this grant and believe it will further our mission to support and enhance the patient-caregiver relationship, especially within the radiation oncology community," she said.

Source: American Society for Radiation Oncology