Cedarville University Students Research Cancer Care Support

Noelle Straka, an undergraduate student from Cedarville University, is actively involved in research aimed at enhancing cancer patient care through a partnership with Pink Ribbon Good (PRG), a nonprofit organization based in Dayton, Ohio. This initiative focuses on improving the quality of life for women and families affected by breast and gynecological cancers.

The collaboration between Cedarville University’s School of Pharmacy and PRG encompasses several projects designed to evaluate the impact of various support services on cancer patients. PRG provides essential resources such as free healthy meals, transportation to treatment, household cleaning supplies, and peer support for those affected by cancer. Straka, alongside her peers, is engaged in four distinct group projects that investigate how these services influence treatment outcomes and symptom management.

Student-led Initiatives and Research Presentations

Straka is participating in two key research projects. In one of these, she collaborates with fellow student Eliya Craig from Tyrone to assess the effectiveness of PRG’s transportation services. Their research was recently presented at the American College of Clinical Pharmacy‘s annual meeting in Minneapolis on October 18. The findings aim to highlight the role of transportation in facilitating access to care for cancer patients, an essential factor in their treatment journey.

Additionally, Straka and Craig are leading another project that focuses on analyzing patient surveys to better understand perceptions of care. This research aims to gather insights into how cancer patients view the support they receive, thereby identifying areas for improvement in service delivery.

The ongoing projects are set to continue throughout the fall and spring semesters, further contributing to the body of knowledge surrounding cancer care support. The partnership not only benefits the students through hands-on research experience but also aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals navigating cancer treatment.

Through these initiatives, Straka and her colleagues exemplify the commitment of Cedarville University students to engage with their communities and contribute to impactful research in healthcare. Their findings will be crucial in shaping future programs and support systems for cancer patients and their families.