An unexpected cancer diagnosis is often described as a “frightening” and “life-changing” event. Along with the physical and mental tolls the disease wields, it can also derail a household’s financial foothold as medical bills and associated costs pile up.

Just ask Marcelle Wood, a young father of two children from Rollins who was diagnosed with stage-four pancreatic cancer last April. Wood had to leave his two jobs in order to focus on his treatment and recovery — leaving his wife as the sole provider.

Luckily for Wood, Wings Regional Cancer Support was there to lend a hand. The local nonprofit helps cancer patients with out-of-pocket expenses. In Wood’s case, Wings covered the costs of travel and lodging when he was sent to a Seattle hospital for a second opinion.

Wings has reimbursed over $2.7 million in travel expenses for 3,339 cancer patients since 1997. Last year alone it assisted 147 cancer patients.

The organization will hold its 24th annual fundraiser and radiothon today and Friday, which can be heard on all Bee Broadcasting radio stations. Your tax-deductible donation could give a local cancer patient the financial relief they need to focus on their road to recovery. Call 257-9464 or visit Sportsman and Ski Haus locations throughout the radiothon.

Salvation Army and Toys for Tots are two other long-standing organizations that have been looking out for local residents in need. The duo recently wrapped up its fourth season of partnership, and the results are simply astounding.

More than 17,000 toys and clothing items were given to children through the Toy & Joy Program, while the local Christmas Kettle Campaign topped $138,000. Wow!

The generous giving of valley residents will go a long way in assisting families and individuals who are going through difficult times by providing meals, clothing, school supplies, hot showers and another needs.

The tireless volunteers with Salvation Army and Toys for Tots are worthy of recognition for making these annual fundraisers a success.