Oakland, Calif. (July 25, 2016) – Alameda Health System (AHS) and AHS Foundation(AHSF) announced receipt of a $125,000 grant from Avon Breast Cancer Crusade to fund AHS’ long-standing efforts to support breast cancer patients through diagnosis and treatment. AHS Patient Navigator Zhonnet Harper accepted the mock check during the closing ceremony for the AVON 39 Walk to End Breast Cancer, held July 24 in San Francisco.
Avon’s generous grant will be used to further the impact of our Patient Navigation Program in providing patient-centered care,” said Debra Barnes, president of the AHS Foundation. “With all too many in the communities AHS serves facing growing economic challenges, the Navigator’s role has never been more important. Navigators follow up with patients to make sure they get needed diagnostic and treatment services, helping break down barriers to access to care.”
“Our Patient Navigators are a crucial support system for our most vulnerable breast cancer patients. They have the knowledge, experience and compassion to effectively guide patients through the health care system during this time of high stress,” said Dr. Richard Godfrey, MD, co-principle investigator for the Avon grant. “This grant will ensure the continued operation of this much–needed program.”
About AVON 39 The Walk to End Breast Cancer
AVON 39 The Walk to End Breast Cancer is the largest fund-raising event for the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade. Since its launch by the Avon Foundation for Women 2003, more than 220,000 participants have trekked 6,868,000 miles and raised nearly $590,000,000 in the fight to end breast cancer. Funds raised at each event provide direct impact in the area where the event takes place, and also help make sure that care and research programs nationwide have adequate resources to make the most progress possible. For more information about AVON 39 The Walk to End Breast Cancer, visit www.avon39.org or join the #Powerof39 conversation on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.
About Alameda Health System
Alameda Health System is a leading public health care provider and medical training institution recognized for its world-class patient- and family-centered care. As one of Alameda County’s largest employers, Alameda Health System provides more than 4,500 jobs and is home to more than 1,100 physicians across nine facilities, including Highland Hospital, Alameda Hospital,
San Leandro Hospital, John George Psychiatric Hospital, Fairmont Hospital, and a network of community-based wellness centers. Alameda Health System is committed to promoting wellness and optimizing the health the community through its mission of caring, healing, teaching and serving all. For more information, visit AlamedaHealthSystem.org.