ASCCC Awards Second Stipend for 2011

The American Samoa Community Cancer Coalition (ASCCC) awarded a $500 financial stipend to the mother of Micah Tusaga, diagnosed with Hepatoblastoma, liver cancer in September 2010. Mrs. Osania Tausaga was presented the stipend by Salilo “Julia” Foifua, MSW Patient Navigator for the American Samoa Comprehensive Cancer Network. Micah has been receiving treatment at Kapiolani Children & Women’s Hospital in Honolulu, Hawaii.

According to Micah’s mother, Osania Tausaga, “Micah is currently doing well.  His tumor has been removed, and we are hoping he is cancer free.” Since Micah has a rare form of Hepatoblastoma (fetal), he has become a participant in cancer research which requires bi-monthly follow-up appointments.

“Access to care here in the islands is a disparity, and can be a great burden for many families in American Samoa,” states Patient Navigator, Salilo Julia Foifua.  “Navigating your way through the cancer continuum is a daunting task, and coupled with the uncertainties of this illness, it can cause heavy stress on any family.” The Patient Navigation Program through the American Samoa Community Cancer Network and

LBJTMC (partners of ASCCC), help patients who need assistance as they search for cancer care, treatment, or social support. Developing Patient Navigators and the provision of financial stipends supports the Cancer Coalition’s mission to fight cancer in the territory.

Micah’s family will use the financial stipend to help pay for his next airfare so that he can continue to receive treatment off island. According to Mrs. Tusaga, “this financial stipend not only benefits the patient, but the whole family.” She also advises the community to “Be active, get involved” with fundraisers and awareness events.  For further information about the Tauta’i Lavea’i Patient Navigation Program, please contact Salilo Julia Foifua, MSW at 633-4589 or email: Salilo.foifua@lbj.as. For further information regarding the American Samoa Community Cancer Coalition visit their website at: http://www.asccancercoalition.org/