print

News Release

July 10, 2008

Media Contact:
Christina Chavira
Communications Specialist
530.332.5589 - office; 530.588.4411 - cell
christina.chavira@enloe.org

Enloe Regional Cancer Center receives grant to support acupuncture

CHICO, Calif., JULY 10, 2008 –  The Fraternal Order of Eagles Chico Aerie and Auxiliary #218 presented a gift of $5,000 on Wednesday, July 9, to the Enloe Regional Cancer Center to research the efficacy of acupuncture in providing relief to many symptoms of cancer treatment. These symptoms can include fatigue, nausea and neuropathy (numbing or pain in the fingers and toes).

Although medications are available to treat symptoms, the drugs can be expensive and come with their own side effects. “The symptoms that patients experience as a result of their treatments often feel worse than the cancer itself,” said Nancy Ledoyen, Director of the Enloe Regional Cancer Center. “The symptoms affect patients’ quality of life and often impact their activities of daily living.Acupuncture can help relieve discomfort due to cancer treatments and promote relaxation – without side effects.It is nice to have an alternative that doesn’t involve swallowing another medication.”

Currently, Enloe offers a low-cost group clinic that focuses on symptoms related to cancer treatment. “We have seen some phenomenal individual responses to acupuncture treatment,” Ledoyen said. The Eagles’ gift will help Enloe study the benefits of acupuncture in a scientific manner. The Enloe Regional Cancer Center aims to publish the results of this research, Ledoyen said.

“Enloe Foundation is honored that the Enloe Regional Cancer Center acupuncture program was selected as one of the recipients of their grants this year,” said Robert Adams, Vice President of the Enloe Foundation.

About the Fraternal Order of Eagles Chico Aerie and Auxiliary #218:  The Fraternal Order of Eagles is a non-profit international organization with the motto “People Helping People.” The Fraternal Order of Eagles Chico Aerie and Auxiliary #218 contribute to many local groups and national charities. As part of their charitable philosophy, the Eagles give back 100 percent of the contributions they receive.

About the Enloe Regional Cancer Center: The Enloe Regional Cancer Center offers radiation oncology and infusion therapy treatments and houses oncologist offices as well as its own pharmacy and a peaceful garden. Patients and their families receive support and education at the center through the library, cancer care shop, and many support programs, including healing arts projects and programs. The Cancer Center offers a weekly private paid clinic with local licensed acupuncturists for the treatment of general conditions, as well as a weekly low-cost group clinic for the treatment of the side effects of cancer treatment. Some cancer patients at the medical center also receive acupuncture. For more about the Enloe Regional Cancer Center, visit www.enloe.org/cancer.

##

Enloe Medical Center is a local, nonprofit health care organization. For more information, please call 530/332-7300 or visit us online at http://www.enloe.org.   Enloe Medical Center is located at 1531 Esplanade Chico, Calif.  95926.