By Carolyn Proctor
Hope Lodge is a nationwide project of the American Cancer Society. It is a tangible reflection of the American Cancer Society’s commitment to improving the quality of life for cancer patients and their loved ones. The first Hope Lodge opened in Charleston, SC, in 1970. The concept came from Margot Freudenberg who saw a similar facility when she was traveling through Australia and New Zealand with President Eisenhower’s People to People Ambassador Program. There are over 50 at this time located near major medical centers throughout the country. In 2010 Hope Lodge of Charleston celebrated their 40th year of operation and had serviced over 295 guests.
The American Cancer Society works with the host community to raise necessary funding for the building and maintaining of each Hope Lodge. The estimated cost for a Hope Lodge is $8-10 million plus land, and a minimum of $8 million endowment for operating expenses. Their commitment to provide homelike settings (a home away from home) at no cost to guests helps lift part of the financial burden facing cancer patients and provide an emotionally supportive place to stay during treatments. Guests are referred to Hope Lodge by area hospitals and are admitted on a “first come, first served” basis. The guest relations director at MUSC was the one that helped me get my place at Hope Lodge. All guests must be able to care for their own needs. Someone is required to stay with you during the time you are at the Lodge. There are now four homes connected by covered walkways. Each home has a furnished kitchen and dining area, a guest resource center, and meeting space. Each guest has their own private bedroom and bathroom. Outside, the guests are able to enjoy courtyards between the houses and a healing garden.
Many volunteers come daily with donated items for the home and many meals are also provided by these volunteers or church groups. Guests of Hope Lodge only have to bring personal necessities with them. Linens, cleaning supplies, and kitchen items are all provided. Anyone, at any time, can donate to Hope Lodge. A few of the wish list items are disposable silverware, plates, cups, canned goods, foil wrap, paper towels, cleaning supplies, 60-watt light bulbs, and stamps. For a more complete list, please call me at 464-7089. They accept any donations at any time.
Hope Lodge is a very warm place with a friendly atmosphere. You know the other people staying there are there for the same reason you are. You have a common bond and you begin to feel like a family. It is a great place for those who have a need for these services. I saw first hand where some of the money that Relay for Life collects is used. If you would like more information about Hope Lodge, I would love to talk with you.