Komen Wisconsin funds nearly $500,000 in lifesaving services

After a statewide affiliate merger in 2017, the newly united Susan G. Komen Wisconsin affiliate created the Breast Cancer Assistance Fund to reach more people in need across the state. Last year, Komen Wisconsin allocated $485,000 to the fund to support women and men in 22 Wisconsin counties.

The Susan G. Komen Wisconsin Breast Cancer Assistance Fund provides financial support for breast health services and support services for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer.

In 2017/18, Komen Wisconsin was able to provide 32,830 lifesaving services to Wisconsinites including screening and diagnostic services, as well as financial support for transportation to and from treatment, insurance copays, rent, childcare and more.

“Each week 90 Wisconsin residents are diagnosed with breast cancer. Especially heartbreaking, 13 of our local neighbors are dying every week from this horrible disease,” said Nikki Panico, executive director. “Our Breast Cancer Assistance Fund reduces barriers to access for Wisconsin women and men and meets the greatest needs of our community.”

Currently Wisconsin residents can visit 58 medical providers across the state to receive care through the Breast Cancer Assistance Fund.

To apply for assistance through the fund, individuals must meet eligibility requirements. Uninsured, insured and underinsured individuals may apply.

Eligibility requirements for Komen Wisconsin’s Breast Cancer Assistance Fund, applications and a complete list of providers can be found at KomenWisconsin.org.

In addition to the Breast Cancer Assistance Fund, Komen Wisconsin allocates 25 percent of funds raised to breast cancer research, including research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Medical College of Wisconsin. Since 1999, Komen Wisconsin has invested over $6 million in national breast cancer research.