Most patients experience a combination of depression, anxiety, and fear when cancer becomes part of their lives. Over time, the trauma of illness and treatments can be emotionally overwhelming, for both patients and their loved ones. It is very common to experience intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and memory lapses. Avoidance behaviors and feelings such as sadness and guilt may arise as well.

The Patient and Family Support team at Huntsman Cancer Institute helps normalize these often hard-to-manage feelings and helps patients and families cope. PFS also helps patients with practical concerns, such as transportation to appointments and childcare.

Learn more about common emotions related to cancer and find resources about coping. If you would like to speak with a social worker, contact PFS at 801-585-9755.

• Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
  Did you know? A colonoscopy can prevent colon cancer or find it early, when it is easier to treat. Men and women age 50 or over should talk to their doctor about a colonoscopy screening. Learn more.
• Kidney Cancer Awareness Month
  Kidney cancer is one of the 10 most common cancers in both men and women. Learn more about this disease, including risk factors and symptoms.

Smith’s Food and Drug is donating $1.4 million to local organizations, and you can help Huntsman Cancer Institute benefit! Just swipe your rewards card every time you shop at Smith’s, and you’ll earn rewards for cancer research. There is no cost to enroll, and enrollment will not affect your fuel points or coupon discounts. Here’s how to do it:

1. Go to www.smithsfoodanddrug.com.
2. Click “Register” in the upper-right corner and follow the instructions to create a free account (or click “Sign In” if you already have an account).
3. Click “My Account” in the upper-right corner.
4. Scroll down to “Community Rewards” and click “Enroll.”
5. Enter “Huntsman Cancer Foundation” and then select it. Your rewards card is now linked. After 7-10 days, your purchases will earn money for cancer research at HCI.

Huntsman Cancer Institute is holding two free screenings in April:

• Skin Cancer Screening
  Saturday, April 12, 2014
  9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Oral Cancer Screening
  Saturday, April 26, 2014
  9 a.m. to noon

Call 1-888-424-2100 for an appointment to either screening.