Advancing Cancer Care
Expert Cancer Care, Close to Home
No one ever wants to hear the words, "You have cancer." When that moment comes, Berkshire County residents deserve access to the highest quality care without the burden of traveling long distances for treatment. Through the Healthier Together Campaign, Berkshire Health Systems is investing in the future of cancer care so patients can receive advanced treatment, compassionate support, and comprehensive services close to home.Â
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The Phelps Cancer Center is the only member of the Dana-Farber Cancer Care Collaborative in Western Massachusetts, providing local access to evidence-based treatments, specialist consultations, advanced therapies, and clinical expertise that meet the highest standards in cancer care.
Why This Matters
Berkshire County faces a unique and urgent health challenge, with cancer incidence rates that consistently exceed the state average. This reality is compounded by our aging population, who are at higher risk and often navigate the complexities of long-term care while facing significant geographic hurdles.
We strive to provide an integrated, evidence-based approach to caring for the whole person. Healthier Together campaign contributions are helping the Phelps Cancer Center significantly enhance their personalized approach to caring for patients.
What Your Support Will Help Deliver
Your contributions are vital to providing the advanced infrastructure and programs necessary for top-tier local cancer care. Every gift directly translates into tangible improvements for our patients' journeys.
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Enhanced technologies for screening, diagnosis, and treatment
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Advanced oncology services and clinical expertise
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Expanded patient navigation and supportive care initiatives
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Integrative health and wellness programs
Caring for the Whole Person
Cancer treatment is more than medical procedures; it is a journey that affects every aspect of a person’s life. At the Phelps Cancer Center, we believe in a holistic approach that treats the individual, not just the diagnosis, ensuring that each patient receives the emotional and physical support they need.
Our integrated care model brings together specialized professionals who address everything from nutritional needs and physical rehabilitation to mental health and spiritual wellness, providing a comprehensive safety net for patients and their families throughout the entire care continuum.
Patient Perspective
After a lifetime of putting others first as wife, mother, friend, and nurse, I learned how to be mindful of myself. I am forever grateful for the Integrative Health Programs. We are so fortunate to have excellent care right here in the Berkshires.
"In 2020, while working as a Registered  Nurse in our community hospital and caring for COVID-19 patients, I was diagnosed with breast cancer.  Suddenly, I was faced with making the tough decision of leaving the 40-year career I loved to focus on my health and safety. I remember thinking, ‘Who am I now?’ Social Worker, Sue Budz and Nurse Navigator, Kathy Hart, RN reminded me often that my job right now was getting rid of cancer. Â
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Throughout my treatment, I received so much benefit from yoga classes, and acupuncture was wonderful!  I was willing to try all the Integrative Health Programs to help me deal with the physical and emotional effects of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.  When I finished my treatment, I enrolled in Moving Forward, a six-week program that teaches wellbeing and self-care skills, and it was the best decision I could have made. "
— Dale B.
The Impact of Giving
Philanthropy is the heartbeat of local healthcare. Every gift, no matter the size, directly strengthens our ability to provide advanced cancer care right here in the Berkshires. By investing in the latest technologies and comprehensive support services, you are helping patients and their families navigate one of life’s most difficult journeys with dignity and hope.
Your support ensures that geography never defines the quality of care. Together, we are building a legacy of healing that protects our community today and for generations to come.