Austin Neal of Above + Beyond Cancer joins the Catholic Morning Show to talk about what cancer patients and caregivers really need after a diagnosis, starting with simply being present. He explains the free, evidence-based programs, hotel lodging assistance, and community the West Des Moines nonprofit offers Iowans at every stage of the cancer journey. Austin also previews Above + Beyond Cancer's 15th anniversary celebration and shares how its coaches show a love that reflects Christ's call to love our neighbor.
Austin Neal of Above + Beyond Cancer joins Deacon Mark Campbell to talk about walking with someone through a cancer diagnosis. With Iowa among the states hit hardest by cancer, Austin shares why the mission is personal for him: his family has been touched by cancer, and his own experience with a lifelong diagnosis taught him that what people need most isn't advice, but someone who will stay with them. Whether someone is on day one or day 365, Above + Beyond Cancer meets patients, survivors, and caregivers wherever they are.
Austin walks through the free programs Above + Beyond Cancer offers Iowans: 12-week Optimal Living classes that are research- and evidence-based, from yoga and meditation to walking, hiking, and cycling, with assessments at the start and finish to track progress; community-building gatherings like book clubs; and a hotel program that covers lodging for Iowans who must travel 50 or more miles for treatment within the state. He also talks about the organization's signature events, including its annual skydiving jump and transformational journeys like this spring's trek through Nepal with about 20 survivors.
Founded by Des Moines oncologist Dr. Richard Deming, Above + Beyond Cancer is marking 15 years of serving thousands of Iowans. Join the celebration at Celebrate, Thursday, November 12, at the Hilton Des Moines Downtown. To get started, visit the "Start Here" section at Above + Beyond Cancer.
Heard on the Catholic Morning Show, weekdays at 7 a.m. Central on Iowa Catholic Radio. More at IowaCatholicRadio.com.
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