Stamford Hospital's Bennett Cancer Center Receives Grant from Connecticut Challenge

April 23, 2009

STAMFORD HOSPITAL'S BENNETT CANCER CENTER
RECEIVES GRANT FROM CONNECTICUT CHALLENGE

STAMFORD, CT/April XX, 2009 - Stamford Hospital's Carl & Dorothy Bennett Cancer Center has received a $25,000 grant from the Connecticut Challenge, a non-profit organization that supports cancer survivorship programs across the state. The grant will support Transitions: Choices in Recovery, a post-treatment survivorship program for patients and their families. Specifically, the grant will go towards Moving On, a special aspect of Transitions designed for patients 40 and younger who often face a variety of unique issues following a cancer diagnosis.

The first program of its kind in Fairfield County, Transitions focuses on giving cancer survivors the tools they need to regain energy, strength and confidence as they return to wellness. Nutrition consultation, a post-treatment exercise program, art and music therapy, family counseling as well as individual medical follow-up plans are among the many benefits of the program.

"Transitions addresses unique medical and psychosocial needs of cancer survivors, ensuring that they receive comprehensive post-treatment care," said Robert Mazzone, Executive Director of the Connecticut Challenge. "We hope Transitions will inspire other hospitals to initiate similar programs that will consider every aspect of the survivor's health and well being."

"We are grateful to the Connecticut Challenge for supporting our efforts to care for our patients after their cancer treatment is over," said Elizabeth Manfredo, M.S., R.D., Director of Cancer Services at the Bennett Cancer Center. "We saw the need to support the Moving On component of the program, and this grant will help us to move forward in assisting young survivors return to wellness."

Founded in 2005 by a cancer survivor, the Connecticut Challenge salutes cancer patients and survivors and aims to bring vital support to the millions of survivors trying to take control of their battle against the disease and the long-term side effects of treatments. The mission of the organization is to investigate the long-term effects of cancer and cancer treatments and provide credible information and comprehensive resources that empower cancer survivors to lead healthier, happier and longer lives. The organization raises its funds primarily through the annual Connecticut Challenge charity bike ride. For more information, visit http://www.ctchallenge.org.

The Carl & Dorothy Bennett Cancer Center is part of the Stamford Hospital, a not-for-profit provider of comprehensive healthcare services in lower Fairfield County and the region. The mission of Stamford Hospital is to provide, together with its physicians, a broad range of high quality health and wellness services focused on the needs of our communities. Stamford Hospital is a Magnet Hospital and a member of the Planetree Alliance, a group of hospitals nationwide focused on patient-centered care. Stamford Hospital is affiliated with New York Presbyterian Health System and is a major teaching affiliate of the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.

Scott Orstad

Stamford Hospital

203-276-5933

sorstad@stamhealth.org