The American Cancer Society Awards 5K to The Cheyenne Regional Medical Center Foundation to Provide Transportation to Patients During Cancer Treatment
May 1, 2025 – The American Cancer Society has awarded a grant of $5,000 to the Cheyenne Regional Medical Center (CRMC) Foundation to provide transportation assistance for cancer patients undergoing treatment. This grant is part of a nationwide $9 million investment expected to support approximately 63,000 eligible patients with nearly 800,000 transportation and lodging services.
Theresa Cook, clinical manager of outpatient hematology, oncology and infusion at the Cheyenne Regional Cancer Center, shared, “For a community like Cheyenne and the rural population we serve, this transportation grant isn’t just about rides. It ensures that cancer patients, especially those traveling to us for care, can access life-saving treatments without barriers. For those living miles from the nearest oncology center, reliable transportation means timely access to chemotherapy, radiation and follow-up care, which leads to better outcomes and an improved quality of life. This grant will allow us to support not only our patients in Cheyenne but also those across the entire region we serve.”
The Cheyenne Regional Cancer Center is a comprehensive hub for cancer care, proudly serving southeast Wyoming, western Nebraska and northern Colorado. Our team of skilled oncologists, registered nurses, pharmacists, technologists, lab staff and other dedicated clinical and support professionals work tirelessly to provide a safe, comfortable and compassionate environment for every patient throughout their cancer journey. We are committed to offering personalized care plans tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual while involving patients and their families in every step of the process. To further enhance the well-being of our patients and their loved ones, we offer a wide range of supportive services, including massage therapy, lymphedema therapy, yoga, nutrition consultations and assistance with prosthetics, wigs, hats and scarves. At the Cheyenne Regional Cancer Center, we are dedicated to delivering holistic, patient-centered care every step of the way.
Access to high-quality cancer treatment impacts cancer outcomes. A lack of the transportation and lodging needed to receive quality care can lead to missed appointments, treatment interruptions, and delays in follow up care. In a 2023 Journal of the National Cancer Institute (JNCI) study, American Cancer Society researchers found that delayed care due to lack of transportation is associated with increased emergency room use and mortality risk among adults with and without cancer history.
“Transportation obstacles or the cost of a hotel room should not be barriers that determine the survival of those needing cancer treatment,” said Dr. Arif Kamal, chief patient officer for the American Cancer Society. “Partnering with health systems and organizations across the country to provide funding to deliver the direct assistance needed helps to fill these equity gaps and improves cancer outcomes.
The American Cancer Society believes all people should have a fair and just opportunity to live a longer, healthier life free from cancer regardless of how much money they make, skin color, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or where they live. In addition to providing transportation and lodging funding to health systems and organizations, the American Cancer Society runs a Road To Recovery program that provides free rides to and from treatment and over 30 Hope Lodge communities that provide a free place to stay during treatment.
