MILWAUKEE — The American Cancer Society reports that cancer is currently the leading cause of death in Wisconsin.
Tricia’s Troops Cancer Connection is helping patients across the state navigate their cancer journeys.
TTCC is a nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance, service coordination and supportive care to cancer patients throughout southeast Wisconsin.
Candice Strong is the executive director of the organization. She said it was started by her sister, Tricia Wright. Wright went through stage 4 colon cancer. After her health failed, Strong took over what her sister had started to help so many others who were in her shoes.
“It’s literally the essence of my being to be able to do this organization,” said Strong. “She was such a huge part of me and to know that I get to carry her with me every day in doing this, I just wake up so excited.”
Strong said the organization focuses on the daily living challenges and out-of-pocket expenses that become a burden for many families during treatment. That can be things like fuel, utilities, groceries and more. It also provides a variety of free services and supplies to local cancer fighters on their journey toward healing.
Tricia’s Troops receives support for their programming from the Kohl’s Healthy Families Grant in partnership with the American Cancer Society. The new grant has allowed them to move into an even bigger space.
“We’ve been able to step into wellness for survivorship,” said Strong.
Other services include yoga, meditation, cooking demonstrations, wig services and more.
Throughout the year, the organization serves about 500 people throughout southeast Wisconsin. With a new program called Project Connect, the aim is to serve 140 people.
It’s helping patients like Candy Schill.
Schill was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer a year ago. She was introduced to Tricia’s Troops Cancer Connection by her nurse. She said joining the program has been rewarding in more ways than one.
“This has been a lifesaver for me,” said Schill. “Moving around and the exercise has really helped me feel better through my treatments.”
Schill said being a part of this program has given her a strong support group of other women on the same journey.
“Initial diagnosis was horrible,” she said. “It was extremely scary.”
She said getting active also helps her feel empowered.
“Just feeling kind of good gave me that little spark like, ‘hey, I’m doing something about this myself,’” said Schill. “I’m not just relying on doctors or medicine or treatment.”
As Schill continues to fight against cancer, she said she’s hopeful, as she gets to do it beside so many other powerful women.
To learn more about TTCC and its support services, visit the organization’s website.