Cancer is a disease that disrupts lives not only of the patient but people around her. Incidence has grown over the years and concomitantly, the number of people affected. It is a relief and a source of hope that cancer help organizations abound. These organizations take on many forms. The common goal is to educate people about the disease and provide a better lifestyle for the afflicted and those who have survived it.

Some organizations focus on research, looking for causes so that they may be avoided. Others concentrate on education, hoping that early detection will lead to intervention that will bring up the chance of survival. There are groups that train caregivers and provide a venue for emotional support to patients and those who take care of them. It is inspiring that people who have survived the disease are the ones most active in these organizations. They bring a ray of hope to those who are just starting the journey.