Message to the Sarcoma Community

SFA will continue our efforts to advocate for sarcoma patients and their families and is still available to serve as a resource to the sarcoma community.  You can reach the SFA by phone at 301-253-8687 or by email at [email protected].

We are evaluating upcoming events and will be announcing new dates for all events scheduled through May. We continue to monitor the situation and are staying abreast of the latest actions of state, local, and federal authorities that may impact our plans. We will move additional events should the situation warrant it.

The amount of information about COVID-19 can be overwhelming and confusing.  However, there are resources from trusted sources that may be of use to you in the coming days.  This is by no means an exhaustive list, but hopefully provides you with some direction as you search for information on the virus and ways to protect yourself.

Resources for Cancer Patients

People with compromised immune systems, such as those with cancer, are considered to have a higher risk for developing complications from COVID-19.  While you should consult with your medical providers about the virus, there are resources available for those at high risk and for cancer patients.

National Cancer Institute –  Coronavirus: What People with Cancer Should Know

Centers for Disease Control – People at Risk for Serious Illness from COVID-19  

American Society of Clinical Oncology  – Coronavirus 2019: What People with Cancer Need to Know 

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center –  Coronavirus: What Cancer Patients Need to Know

CDC Guidance on Coronavirus

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has developed educational resources regarding COVID-19, including steps that you can take to minimize your risk of contracting or spreading the virus.  These steps include:

• Clean your hands often. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• Avoid close contact. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. 
• Stay home if you’re sick. Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
• Cover coughs and sneezes. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. Throw used tissues in the trash. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Clean and disinfect. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.  This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.

You can access the complete collection of their resources at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. 

In the midst of all of the chaos and uncertainty that this outbreak brings, know that our mission to serve our community and to find a cure for sarcoma remains our top priority.  We greatly appreciate your continued support as we all navigate the days ahead.

Best regards,

 

 

Brandi Felser
Executive Director