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Seventeen years ago this month, I heard the words, “This is cancer.” Even now, it’s hard to believe that chapter is part of my story. Thankfully, I was healed, and cancer isn’t part of my daily life anymore. But at 25, hearing that diagnosis was overwhelming. Questions flooded my mind: What does this mean? Will I die? How will we treat this? Who has the answers?
Thankfully, here in Arkansas, we are surrounded by strong support networks. There are organizations, experts, and programs ready to assist, but even with that, the options can feel overwhelming at first. That’s why I’ve written this: to share the initial steps, key resources, and trusted places to help you or someone you love to find the way forward.
While it’s impossible to cover every opportunity, we aim to guide you toward regional support that helps you access specific resources and find a starting point in your community.
What do you do first after a cancer diagnosis?
Most cancer diagnoses start with suspicion. Even if the cause or symptoms are unclear, something prompts you to see a doctor. And once you hear the word cancer, you begin an unexpected journey. One of the best first steps? Trust the staff at your diagnosing doctor’s office. They’ll likely refer you to an oncologist or cancer treatment center.
Across Arkansas, treatment centers like CARTI, St. Bernards, Mercy, and Highlands Oncology have dedicated social workers who assist families in navigating the process. These professionals provide emotional support, financial guidance, support groups, and connections to local services, all at the same location where you meet your doctor and receive care. In my experience, keep the papers you receive during these meetings; you’ll need to find them later when you require additional assistance.
Another important resource is the American Cancer Society. With a local office in Little Rock, this organization works with clinics and hospitals across the state to provide transportation services, grant opportunities, educational materials, and support through a national helpline. Events like Relay for Life, Coaches vs. Cancer, and the Cattle Barons Ball help fund these services here in Arkansas.
The website Cancer.org is a reliable source of current, research-backed information. If you need immediate support or just someone to talk to, call their 24/7 hotline at 800-227-2345 to connect with an on-call nurse or emotional support specialist who can help you find local services.
Who in Arkansas Supports Cancer Patients?
Everyone going through the cancer journey, whether directly or indirectly, needs various kinds of support. Some may want information, others require financial assistance, and some seek guidance on who and what to trust. It can be overwhelming to navigate. A few organizations in Arkansas focus on providing the best support possible for Arkansans.
- Hope Cancer Resources | Springdale
- Cancer Challenge | Northwest Arkansas
- Reynolds Cancer Support House | Jonesboro
- American Cancer Society | Nationwide, office in Little Rock
- Arkansas Cancer Coalition | Little Rock, supporting statewide
- Susan G. Komen – Financial Assistance Program, serving all 75 counties in Arkansas
Cancer Treatment Centers Around Arkansas
- CARTI | Little Rock, 14 other locations around Arkansas
- Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute @ UAMS | Little Rock
- St. Bernard’s Cancer Center | Jonesboro
- Sparks Cancer Center | Fort Smith
- Fowler Family Center for Cancer Care | Jonesboro
- Claude Parrish Cancer Center | Harrison
- Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute | Russellville
- Jones-Dunklin Cancer Center @ Jefferson Regional | Pine Bluff
How can you keep hope?
This journey can sometimes feel impossible. Take a deep breath. Start by asking one question: What do I need to know right now? Then take the next small step. Most of us can’t see every need at once, and that’s okay. That’s why these organizations exist. This is their daily work.
I’ve been the patient, the caregiver, and I’ve also worked professionally on the other side, answering calls and helping people connect to what they need. I’m here to tell you, these people want to help you. They want to see you healed. They’re ready to do the heavy lifting if you’ll let them.
8 Good First Steps for Cancer Patients
When you are diagnosed with cancer, it might feel like your world is falling apart, but this doesn’t have to only be hard. I remember the initial fear that I was going to die because everyone before me who had cancer had that ending. However, I want to tell you that cancer became a turning point in my life that set me on a path of victory, and that can become your story too!
1. Know what you’re dealing with. Don’t assume the worst. Wait for the official diagnosis before trying to assess the extent of your situation. Then, proceed based on facts.
2. Hold off on browsing the internet; it can quickly overwhelm your thoughts. Your doctor will give you answers. Cancer.org and similar organizations offer information to help you understand your diagnosis. Other pages and destinations may be full of opinions. For now, stick to the facts!
3. Ask questions. There will be medical terms you don’t recognize, so ask until you understand. Even if you’ve helped a loved one through cancer before, this experience is unique to you.
4. Be an advocate. Make sure you or your loved one gets the best possible care. Some Arkansas centers are nationally recognized, attracting people from around the world for treatment. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. If you believe you’re not getting what you need, keep fighting for it!
5. Slow down. There will be a lot of information coming at you all at once. Keep a notepad handy. Use your phone’s voice memo app to record conversations with your doctor. It’s okay to decline extra commitments until you’re clear on what’s involved.
6. Work through your emotions. Cancer brings intense feelings, and sometimes all at once. Allow yourself time to process. Journal, walk, cry, pray, scream in your car, whatever helps. Just don’t hold it in.
7. Don’t jump to conclusions. Sadly, statistics indicate there could be 19,700 new cancer cases in Arkansas in 2025, affecting 1 in 3 women and 1 in 2 men. It’s a harsh reality, but many cancers are treatable, and survival rates are improving each year. With effective detection methods, we can find cancers earlier when they are more treatable.
8. Let others assist you. You’re not meant to handle this on your own. Depend on your family, friends, church group, and most importantly, your medical and community support team. Many local organizations exist because people like you supported their fundraisers, car washes, bake sales, or donation drives. Now it’s their turn to support you.
Arkansas is known for kindness and community, and that spirit shines brightly in how we support cancer patients and their families. You are not alone. Help is available. There is hope. And Arkansas provides resources just for you.
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