World Cancer Support Month, observed each August, is a meaningful time to come together in support of those impacted by cancer. It is a reminder of the extraordinary strength, compassion, and resilience shown by patients, caregivers, families, and medical professionals alike. By fostering community, this month serves as a powerful symbol of hope and unity in the fight against cancer.[1]
The Impact of Cancer
Cancer affects far more than just the physical body; it impacts the emotional and mental well-being of those facing it. The path through diagnosis and treatment can be filled with fear and uncertainty, but it is also marked by incredible moments of courage and connection. This month serves to highlight not only the importance of medical treatment but also the crucial role of emotional and psychological support.
As noted, “The emotional toll of the disease on patients, families, and caregivers cannot be understated. By fostering an environment of open dialogue, the stigma surrounding cancer can be dismantled, encouraging more people to seek help and resources.”[1] Recognizing the emotional and psychological side of cancer is essential to truly supporting those affected.
Forms of Support
Support takes many shapes, from researchers developing lifesaving therapies to loved ones lending emotional strength.[1] The Cancer Support Community provides a comprehensive range of resources tailored to individual needs, including 24/7 helplines, virtual forums, and in-person counseling centers. They emphasize that “everyone’s cancer is unique. Your support should be, too.”[2] This philosophy ensures that individuals can access the kind of help that works best for them at every stage of their journey.
Local Support in Austin, Texas
In Austin, a variety of local organizations and hospitals provide vital cancer support services. These range from online communities to in-person therapy, including nutritional counseling, emotional support from licensed social workers, and educational resources to help patients and families understand treatment options and navigate care.[3] For many, these local groups become lifelines, offering both practical tools and emotional reassurance.
National Support Resources
Nationally, the American Cancer Society continues to lead the way in patient support through programs like its 24/7 cancer helpline, lodging assistance, rides to treatment, and guidance from trained cancer navigators.[4] These services help alleviate the burden of treatment logistics, allowing patients and caregivers to focus on their recovery. Additionally, disease-specific nonprofits, such as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, provide targeted programs, financial assistance, and educational tools for individuals facing specific types of cancer.[4]
CancerCare has spent over 80 years providing emotional, financial, and practical support to individuals facing cancer. Their professional oncology social workers offer free individual and group counseling, educational programs, financial assistance, and organize national fundraising and awareness events, connecting supporters across the nation.[5] The broader cancer support community demonstrates that healing goes far beyond medicine; it’s also about connection, empathy, and unwavering support.
Cancer Statistics 2025
Understanding the impact of cancer today highlights why support is crucial. In 2025, the American Cancer Society estimates that 2,041,910 new cancer cases and 611,720 cancer deaths will occur in the United States alone.[6] However, the outlook is improving; the overall cancer death rate has declined by 34% since 1991, translating to nearly 4.5 million fewer deaths over three decades.[6] This progress reflects significant advances in early detection, targeted therapies, and prevention, but it also highlights the continued need for collective support and research.
A Collective Journey
Cancer affects not only the patient but also the entire care circle, including families, friends, nurses, physicians, and the community. It is a shared experience of strength, compassion, and perseverance. OriGen Biomedical is honored to play a part in this journey by providing medical products used in life-saving cancer treatments worldwide.
This World Cancer Support Month, we encourage everyone to show support in their own way, whether by offering comfort to a friend, volunteering for a local organization, or simply learning more about the needs of those affected. Together, we can make a lasting difference. No one walks this path alone.
