A cancer diagnosis is often harrowing, and the journey, for many, can be long and lonely.

But particularly in a remote, rural community, cancer is not only a disruptive and devastating prognosis from a health standpoint, it can also be financially crippling. 

“I knew to expect the mental and physical challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis, but didn’t anticipate the financial burden that comes along with it,” said a Jasperite whose identify The Jasper Local agreed to protect.

To help alleviate some of those burdens, in 2005 the Jasper Cancer Action Support Group was created. Since then, JCASG has helped countless Jasperites with their care regimen. 

“Being sick in a small town is expensive,” Jasperite Heather Wall said.

Wall is the current steward of the JCASG. The group is reminding Jasperites that everybody living with cancer is going to have extra expenses. Between travel for scans and appointments, surgeries, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiation treatments, costs can quickly overwhelm families.

“You’re missing work, you family is missing work. You think of the accommodation expenses, gas, babysitters, medications…it all adds up,” said Wall.

Wall works at the Cottage Medical Clinic. She said to protect individuals’ privacy, local doctors tell the new patients about the support group and ask if they can connect them to JCASG. Wall encourages everyone to consider accepting the support, regardless of their financial situation.

“I was extremely touched when I unexpectedly received the generous gift of a cheque from the Jasper Cancer Action and Support Group,” a Jasperite said. “I have been grateful to use those funds to assist with accommodation costs and am incredibly grateful for the sensitivity and kindness of JCASG and for the generosity of those who have donated to it.”

In the past, JCASG’s primary sponsor was the Jasper Heritage Rodeo. But in 2023, the Jasper Heritage Rodeo dissolved.

That change to Jasper’s 97-year-old rodeo tradition meant the Jasper Cancer Action and Support Group lost a foundational funder. To help continue their mission, the group is now looking for new resources.

Recently, the Jasper Volunteer Fire Brigade made a generous donation to the JCASG. But with more than a dozen Jasperites currently undergoing cancer treatment, Wall is hoping more community organizations and individuals will partner with JCASG.

“The fire brigade’s contribution arrives at a critical time and will directly assist residents navigating cancer diagnoses this year,” Wall said. “But it’s already depleted.”

Adding to the need, many newly-diagnosed residents are also managing losses from the 2024 wildfires. With the community’s support, Wall knows that JCASG can help.

“We hope this assistance eases their burden and recognizes some of the challenges,” she said. 

For those interested in contributing, donations can be made to the Jasper Cancer Action and Support Group In Trust at the TD Bank Jasper Branch.

Jasper Local staff // info@thejasperlocal.com