A cancer diagnosis changes everything. It affects more than the body, it touches every part of a person’s life. At the Ackerman Cancer Center, Scot Ackerman, MD, FACR and his care team see this reality every day. Beyond treatment challenges, many patients face another struggle: affording daily living expenses while fighting cancer.
The Ackerman Cancer Foundation was established in 2004 to help patients across Jacksonville and Northeast Florida focus on healing without the stress of financial hardship.
A Mission Inspired by Compassion
The Foundation began quietly in the exam room at Ackerman Cancer Center when Dr. Ackerman noticed some patients were missing radiation appointments. When he asked why, the answers were heartbreaking.
Many patients could not make appointments because they could not afford the trip. Without the ability to work during treatment, they struggled with essentials like gas, groceries, or rent. Some faced impossible choices:
“Do I pay for gas to get to treatment, or do I buy food for my family tonight?”
It became clear that patients were choosing work over treatment just to survive. Seeing very few local resources available, Dr. Ackerman took action. The Ackerman Cancer Foundation was created to ensure no one ever has to choose between treatment and survival.
How Ackerman Cancer Foundations Helps Cancer Patients
Ackerman Cancer Foundation provides direct support to patients during one of the hardest times of their lives. Every program reduces everyday burdens that make treatment feel impossible.
- Transportation Assistance: Gas gift cards and coordination with local transportation services help patients travel safely to radiation and proton therapy appointments.
- Food Support: Grocery gift cards ensure patients and families stay nourished during treatment.
- Hope Lodge Coordination: We partner with the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge to arrange no-cost stays for patients traveling from outside the area.
- Hotel Partnerships: Local hotels and extended-stay locations provide discounted rooms for out-of-town Ackerman Cancer Center patients.
- Housing and Utility Assistance: Donations help cover rent, mortgage, and electricity bills during treatment so patients can focus on recovery.
Every effort reflects the belief that no one battling cancer should face it alone.
By the Numbers
Thanks to compassionate staff, community donors, and local partners, the Ackerman Cancer Foundation has made a real impact in Northeast Florida:
- $45,000+ in transportation assistance
- 15,000+ hours of electricity covered
- 100+ hotel nights through partnerships with 17 local hotels
- $5,000+ in rent and mortgage support
- 2,000+ patients, family members, and caregivers supported through education and wellness programs
Each number tells a story of hope, kindness, and community support.
Every Donation Matters
Ackerman Cancer Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their loved ones. Your support provides real help to real people.
Every gift matters. It helps a patient fill their gas tank, pay a utility bill, or stay close to treatment. Most importantly, it brings hope and peace of mind.
The Ackerman Cancer Foundation is a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. To learn more or donate, visit AckermanCancerFoundation.org. Together, we can make sure no one in our community has to choose between life and living.
