The American Cancer Society makes it particularly easy for Paducah area residents to find ways to volunteer during the holidays and year round. Meaningful opportunities are available for volunteers who want to assist local cancer patients and their families.

To learn how to become a valuable volunteer, call the area office in Paducah at 444-0375 or 24 hours a day through a free call to 1-800-227-2345. The American Cancer Society also offers information and support through this nationwide toll-free help line anytime, day or night, even on holidays.

Volunteer opportunities could include:

n Driving cancer patients to and from their treatments.

n Cancer survivors who can give patients an opportunity to talk about their fears and concerns.

n Recruiting teams, raising money and planning activities for the annual Relay For Life.

n Helping to fight for increased funding for research and screening programs.

n Assuring local, state, and federal lawmakers hear the voices of those affected by cancer.

An estimated 25,160 people in Kentucky will be diagnosed with cancer in 2012. They will have many questions and emotions. A newly diagnosed patient may have questions about how to tell his or her family; about what treatment options are available; or help understanding the complex medical system.

“We do everything we can to improve quality of life for patients, caregivers, and survivors during and after diagnosis and treatment,” said Mary Huff, health initiatives representative for the American Cancer Society in Paducah.

“Whether it’s matching people with appropriate clinical trials, providing information on managing side effects of chemotherapy, helping people get to their treatment appointments, or providing a free place to stay during treatment far from home, we offer help and hope throughout the cancer experience,” said Huff.

Many different forms of support are available, both online and in person. All Society services are offered free of charge. The holidays are here and so is the American Cancer Society for cancer patients and their families. More information is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-227-2345 or cancer.org.