By Mercedes Mikalaitis
A cancer diagnosis is a seismic event, sending shockwaves through not just the patient’s life, but the lives of their loved ones as well.
It brings forth a flood of emotions, questions, and uncertainties. I intimately understand this, having walked alongside my father through his own battle with cancer. While he received excellent care, the lack of a guiding hand left us feeling lost. This personal narrative fuels my passion for the incredible work of Naples Cancer Advisors (NCA).
Naples Cancer Advisors: A Beacon of Hope
NCA is a lifeline and pillar of support for patients and their families in Southwest Florida, offering a range of services tailored to their unique needs—all at no cost. These services include access to leading oncologists, objective case reviews, clinical trial navigation, financial counseling, and genetic testing. The goal is to empower patients with the knowledge and support they need to confidently navigate their treatment journey and make informed decisions about their care.
Transforming Lives, One Case Review at a Time
At the heart of NCA’s mission is providing free case reviews by a team of expert oncologists and healthcare professionals. These reviews offer critical insights into diagnoses, treatment options, and care plans, giving patients and their families clarity and empowerment. Patients receive thorough evaluations from specialists, helping them understand their condition and explore the best treatment options.
Comprehensive Support Beyond Medical Consultations
Beyond medical advice, NCA offers emotional support, educational resources, and assistance with navigating the healthcare system. This comprehensive approach helps alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty that comes with a cancer diagnosis, enabling patients to focus on their path to recovery.
Personal Reflection: A Missed Opportunity
Reflecting on my father’s battle with cancer, I often think about how different his experience could have been with the support of an organization like NCA. His diagnosis came with many unanswered questions and uncertainty about the best course of action leaving us grasping for direction amidst the chaos.
Though he had a dedicated medical team, the comprehensive support and clarity that NCA offers would have provided invaluable peace of mind. Knowing that such a vital resource now exists in our community brings immense comfort, as it means others won’t have to navigate this journey alone or in confusion.
Empowerment Through Community Engagement
Driven by my personal experience, I now proudly serve as the Community Engagement and Events Coordinator for NCA. I witness firsthand the transformative impact of our work through outreach efforts, educational initiatives, and community events. Our philosophy is that no one should face cancer alone. By fostering connections within the community and spreading awareness of our services, we ensure that everyone knows support is available.
Making a Difference in Southwest Florida
A significant part of my role involves organizing and coordinating events that raise awareness about cancer and provide a platform for individuals to access our services. From health fairs to fundraising galas, each event is an opportunity to connect with those affected by cancer and offer them the support they deserve.
A Mission of Hope and Empowerment
The importance of Naples Cancer Advisors in our community cannot be overstated. They serve as a beacon of hope and support for individuals and families grappling with a cancer diagnosis. Through community engagement, education, and advocacy, we empower individuals with the knowledge and support they need to navigate their cancer journey with strength and resilience.
Together, we are not just providing services; we are igniting hope, fostering empowerment, and transforming lives. Having witnessed the impact of cancer firsthand, I am grateful for the existence of NCA and passionately advocate for their continued support and expansion in our communities.
In memory of my father and for all those currently battling cancer, I am committed to making sure that no one has to face this journey alone.
Mercedes Mikalaitis is the Community Engagement & Events Coordinator for Naples Cancer Advisors and the owner of Tulla Events in Naples, Florida. She holds a BS in International Relations and has 16 years of experience in patient administration and revenue cycle management. Driven by a profound sense of empathy and dedication to her community, Mercedes is deeply committed to advocating for patients’ rights and facilitating access to essential healthcare services. Her relocation from Colorado to Naples, Florida, in 2022 marked a significant chapter in her life, allowing her to immerse herself in a vibrant coastal community where she and her family have been enjoying trips to the beach together since.
239-846-2273 (CARE)
3201 Tamiami Trail N, Suite 112, Naples, FL 34103
naplescanceradvisors.org