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In the Know! More Than a Diagnosis: Supporting the Whole Person with Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana

At JAM Center, we believe that knowledge is power — and during our recent In the Know! virtual session, we had the privilege of speaking with Marsha Haffner, Vice President for Mission Fulfillment at Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana. What we learned goes far beyond treatment — it’s about dignity, autonomy, and compassion at every step of the journey.

Marsha Haffner Web Square

🧡 A Local Lifeline for Those Facing Cancer

Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana isn’t a medical facility — it’s a non-profit focused on improving the quality of life for those navigating cancer in our region, including residents right here in DeKalb County.

Their approach is beautifully simple: remove barriers and put people back in the driver’s seat. Whether you're newly diagnosed, in treatment, or in recovery, they offer free resources tailored to your physical, emotional, and financial needs.

🛠️ Practical and Emotional Support — All Free of Charge

Services include:

  • Wigs, head coverings, and durable medical equipment (canes, walkers, shower chairs, etc.)
  • Nutritional supplements available at below-retail cost
  • Transportation to treatment and appointments, thanks to a team of dedicated volunteers
  • Massage therapy and mental health support — for both patients and caregivers
  • Individualized guidance from Client Advocates, who serve as a trusted companion and resource guide
  • Referrals, support groups, and specialized programming like “Work in Cancer,” which helps patients stay employed through treatment

And it’s all 100% donor-supported, ensuring there are no financial hoops to jump through.

🌱 It’s Not Just About Cancer — It’s About Living Fully

Marsha emphasized one of the most important truths: you are not your diagnosis. Cancer Services helps people see that this is just one chapter in their story — not the whole book. Clients are given a “menu” of services to choose from based on what they actually want and need, empowering them to retain a sense of control during an otherwise overwhelming time.

You don’t need a referral or a special diagnosis code. You don’t even have to walk through their doors — many services are available by phone, and transportation can be arranged.

Cancer Services

💬 Want to Learn More or Get Involved?

If you or someone you know could benefit from these services, or if you’d like to volunteer, it’s as easy as calling 260-484-9560 and asking for the Volunteer Coordinator. You can also fill out a service request on their website on behalf of someone — with their permission.

And if you're curious to see it all in action, join them on the 4th Friday of each month at 11:30am for Friends for Lunch, where you can tour the facility and hear more about the impact they make.