First Texas Hope Lodge Opens in Lubbock

On Tuesday, June 29, 2010 the American Cancer Society (Society) made history as it opened the doors to Texas' first Hope Lodge, Hope Lodge Lubbock. Nearly 400 donors, supporters and volunteers gathered for the monumental event to show support and tour the facility.

Each year, an estimated 2,200 patients travel more than 50 miles one-way to Lubbock for cancer treatment. These patients can spend days, weeks, even months away from home. The emotional and financial toll of the loss of income, medical bills, hotel rooms and dining out can be staggering. Some of these patients may even forego the most effective treatment due to the mounting costs.

Beginning on July 12, this “home away from home”, located at 3511 10th Street, will offer 11,680 nights of free lodging each year for cancer patients - saving them an estimated $1.3 million annually in hotel expenses. The facility features 32 new and spacious private guest rooms, a kitchen, dining room, laundry facilities, library, prayer room, activity room, day rooms and a living room. Additionally, Hope Lodge provides trained staff that offer emotional support, critical cancer care information and compassion. The lodges serve a unique role in bringing together cancer patients and caregivers who emotionally support each other and learn from one another.

“When the best hope for recovery lies with a cancer center far from home, Hope Lodge provides a comfortable, nurturing environment where patients and caregivers can stay during treatment and focus on what is most important - fighting cancer,” Mike Dany, Society Chief Executive Officer - High Plains Division said. “We are proud to help demonstrate our continued commitment to reducing the cancer burden by opening this home away from home for cancer patients in West Texas and beyond.”