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What we do

The Beth C. Wright Cancer Resource Center is committed to providing respectful, “hands-on,” and timely support for citizens of Hancock and Washington counties. We are building a strong collaborative relationship with the Maine Chapter of the American Cancer Society (ACS) to help them bring their programs to communities in Hancock and Washington Counties.

2006 Bike Ride for Life - Blue Hill, Maine

Michael Reisman, Executive Director, is a member of the Rehabilitation and Survivorship Work Group of the Maine Cancer Consortium and is involved in the development of the new five year plan for survivorship and rehabilitation. He has also developed working relationships with representatives at Cancer Care of Maine, the Cancer Community Center, Encore Plus, and other cancer care, medical, and social organizations in the state.

Through our partnerships and our commitment to Direct Action, The Beth C. Wright Cancer Resource Center brings the most current information and expertise to our clients – especially those in our often under-served Downeast communities, who in many instances must travel long distances to access support. As awareness of our programs and services grows, we expect to serve many more in the coming years.

Our Ellsworth facility provides a tranquil place where people can find information, education, fellowship, and support. Programs include lectures, support groups, nutritional counseling, brown bag lunch discussions, yoga, and meditation classes. The Ellsworth center also houses an extensive library of books, videos, and audiotapes to help patients and their families deal with the disease. In addition, Internet access is available so visitors can conduct online searches for treatment options, coping mechanisms, and other cancer-related information. All center programs and services are free of charge.

Programs offered

Patient Navigator Program – This program of the American Cancer Society matches trained volunteers with people diagnosed with cancer to help them to "navigate" the health care system and other aspects of the cancer experience. The trained navigator will help identify resources and be a supportive listener for the person he or she is helping on a one on one basis. Volunteer navigators are available now.

Prosthetics Service of the Sebasticook Valley Hospital – Beth Bacon, a certified prosthetic fitter, is available by appointment to meet with women at the Center.  She provides her patients with personalized service and information that allows them to stay in control. She will have the exact prosthesis designed to restore image, balance, and symmetry

The Maine Buddy Program – This program of the Cancer Community Center of South Portland is for people living with cancer, those who care for someone with cancer, and those who have lost someone to cancer. Participants are matched one-to-one with trained volunteer Buddies who have had similar experiences. The Buddies through phone conversations help individuals talk through their concerns, discuss available resources, and provide support and reassurance. Call Jani Druck at 1-877-774-2200 for more info.

Road to Recovery – This program of the American Cancer Society has trained volunteers available to provide free transportation for cancer patients to and from chemotherapy or radiation treatments. Call the Beth C. Wright Center to arrange a ride.

Reach to Recovery – This program of the American Cancer Society helps breast cancer patients cope with their breast cancer experience. This experience begins when someone is faced with the possibility of a breast cancer diagnosis and continues throughout the entire period that breast cancer remains a personal concern. Trained volunteers are available to give you support and up-to-date- information, including literature for spouses, children, and friends. Please call the Center to request a visit or phone call from a local volunteer.