Equipping Patients with Hope Thanks to Unite in the Fight

Medical care goes beyond what happens in the doctor’s office. Patients need the proper tools, such as walkers and canes, to continue their healing journey. While they are essential, insurance does not always cover these tools, meaning patients go without.

“With the right equipment, patients are better able to manage symptoms, adhere to treatment plans, and avoid complications that often lead to hospital readmissions. These tools also reduce the physical and emotional burden on caregivers, while supporting patient dignity and autonomy,” said Alexis Schneider, a transplant social worker at the Georgia Cancer Center and Wellstar MCG Health.

Frustrated by seeing their patients go without essential medical supplies, the social work at the GCC at Wellstar MCG Health, consisting of Schneider, Michele Etienne, Stacy McGaney, and Erika Bowens, along with Barbara McFarland, the Director of the Cancer Center Outpatient Services, submitted two grants.

‘Equip and Empower’ and ‘Hope and Healing Post-Mastectomy’ are both focused on providing medical supplies for patients who would otherwise go without with the help of Hair & Beauty Treatment Center, ran by Donecia Sullivan.

Alexis Schneider smiling — Alexis Schneider

“The Hair & Beauty Treatment Center is local to Augusta and Donecia is passionate about helping individuals in our community. When she reached out to us, we knew we could make this happen for our patients with her help.”

Under both programs, durable medical equipment (DME), including walkers, canes, lymphedema supplies, breast edema vests, and more, are provided to uninsured and underinsured patients who are currently undergoing cancer treatment. The staff at the clinic will work together to refer patients in need of assistance to the social worker team, who will determine what items are needed and connect them with the Hair & Beauty Treatment Center to schedule their service.

“Our patients are our priority, and this program will allow us to get them the supplies they need without additional burden. A cancer diagnosis and its treatment are burden enough.”

Funding for these programs would not be possible without Unite in the Fight Against Cancer. Unite is an annual community celebration honoring all who have been affected by this disease, while raising funds for patient-centered programs. Unite 2025 funded nine programs to improve the lives of our patients and staff here in our community.

If you would like to learn more about this program, follow us on Facebook to be kept up to date on it and the other programs funded by Unite in the Fight Against Cancer. Unite in the Fight Against Cancer will be held on May 2, 2026. You can find more information by visiting our website and Facebook event page. We encourage all to join us in support of all who fight against cancer every day.