The Oakland Press (3/24/20): Children’s Leukemia Foundation of Michigan works to support patients during COVID-19 crisis

View the full story in The Oakland Press

Farmington Hills-based Children’s Leukemia Foundation of Michigan is working to identify new ways to support patients and their families through the COVID-19 crisis.

These patients – many of whom are in active chemotherapy or have had a bone marrow transplant – are some of the most vulnerable to immune deficits and serious illness from COVID-19.

The organization's Patient Services coordinators are expanding options for personal connection during this time, offering more frequent and deepened one-on-one support through live video and Blood Cancer Support Groups via Zoom. The organization is also looking to expand emergency financial assistance for families whose income has been cut due to the crisis.

According to a press release by the foundation, "We’re taking our responsibility to prevent the spread of disease in the community very seriously, and have taken action to reduce patients’ risk of getting sick."

"We’ve cancelled all of the events and social outings we host for our patients and families as part of our Social Support Program through the end of April. We understand that this program plays an important role in returning some normalcy to lives interrupted by blood cancer, and are currently looking at opportunities for families to virtually connect."

For additional questions concerning these updates, call 248-530-3000. For those enrolled with the Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan who have questions about services, contact Melissa Antoncic, director of Patient Services, at 248-530-3006. 

Financial contributions are needed to help support the increasing number of patients and families who depend on the organization's services. To donate, visit leukemiamichigan.org/how-you-can-help/donate-now.

-Submitted by Amy Wilczynski