Patient Update
from Anique Harrigan, CSVI Patient Advocate
In this time of crisis when you can’t imagine things getting worse for those impacted by cancer — it has been just that. Over the past few months of being in lockdown and protecting ourselves and family members from the invisible virus COVID-19, many cancer patients in the territory have faced new challenges. As the Patient Advocate at CSVI, I continue to engage with patients on a daily basis. What I’ve learned is that they are being marginalized even more with the present pandemic. Compromised immune systems, lack of resources on island, restricted travel and the loss of income due to the Coronavirus has made this new way of life almost impossible for any cancer patient seeking treatment.
Here is an example of such challenges —
A family of four recently moved off island temporarily for treatment. Their young school age children had to accompany their parents because no one else could look after them due to COVID-19. Securing temporary housing for the family was almost non-existent as many places were closed or prohibited short term rental. Travel back and forth to the healthcare facility became risky. Now, in addition to their regular bills, this family is incurring daily charges for accommodations, transportation and food for the next six months of treatment as they fight their battle against cancer.
This is just one case of how patients in the Virgin Islands are having to navigate receiving cancer care. Cancer Support VI is honored to offer some financial assistance to patients, but we cannot do it alone. We need the support and donations from the community to continue to help our most vulnerable.
Would you consider giving in order to support a patient today? It could be your neighbor, colleague, family or friend.