In the heart of Reading, Pennsylvania, a Hispanic organization has turned solidarity into action. The Hispanic Cancer Society of Pennsylvania was founded to provide comprehensive support to patients and families affected by cancer, with a special focus on the Latino community. Its president, María O’Neill, together with Ana Cruel (vice president) and Mary Castillo (executive secretary), lead an initiative marked by empathy, education, and hope.
Origins of a mission of solidarity
The story began when María received more than thirty calls in a single month from Hispanic individuals from Venezuela, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, and Pennsylvania, all seeking help after a cancer diagnosis. They needed transportation for chemotherapy, companionship, translation, and household support.
Moved by this great need, María and Ana founded the Hispanic Cancer Society of Pennsylvania, an organization created to provide real assistance to those battling the disease and to serve beyond borders.
Mission and services
The main mission is to minimize the impact of cancer and accompany those affected. Although the organization does not have formal funding, it operates through internal fundraising and the dedication of committed volunteers.
Its main services include services as home assistance, cleaning, cooking, and accompanying patients. Medical and administrative support, that provides help obtaining medical insurance regardless of immigration status, coordinating appointments, medications, and transportation. Temporary financial aid, that helps cover basic expenses such as utilities and rent. Mental health services, a 24/7 crisis line that has intervened in critical situations, including suicide attempts, and education and awareness, that helps organizing conferences, forums, and community support groups.
Alliances and impact
To date, the Penn State Cancer Institute has been one of the main institutional partners, collaborating in education and patient support.
With less than two years in existence, the Society has already made a strong impact: more than 125 people attended its first forum with the Penn State Cancer Institute, and about 270 participated in its annual walk.
“It’s always necessary to keep promoting our services, so people know they’re not alone,” says María.
Next Steps and community call
The Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Walk will be held on October 25 at 2:00 p.m., starting from Washington and 5th Streets in Reading. The event aims to raise funds and promote prevention.
The Society invites the entire community, regardless of background, to participate and show support. According to María, cancer cases have increased by 37% in Berks County, and 2.6 million cases are projected by 2025.
“Cancer does not mean death,” emphasizes Mary Castillo. “It means fighting, transforming, and finding the opportunity to live better.”
“Through our service, we offer immigration procedures for cancer patients. With the motto ‘Together Against Cancer,’ the Hispanic Cancer Society of Pennsylvania reaffirms its commitment to accompany, educate, and bring hope to the community.
For info, contact phone 484-516-5930, https://sociedadhispanadelcancer.org/, 351 North 5th St., Reading, PA 19601.
