Undergraduate students from Cedarville University’s School of Pharmacy, including Noelle Straka from Wilkes-Barre, are engaged in significant research aimed at enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients. This effort is part of a collaboration with Pink Ribbon Good (PRG), a nonprofit organization based in Dayton, Ohio, which works with healthcare providers to support women and families affected by breast and gynecological cancers.
Straka and her peers are involved in a series of research projects that focus on various aspects of patient care. PRG provides crucial services such as free healthy meals, transportation to treatment, house cleaning essentials, and peer support for patients and their families. The collaboration encompasses four group projects, all centered on evaluating the impact of PRG’s services on cancer treatment and symptom management.
Research Focus and Presentations
Straka is actively participating in two of these projects. In one project, she and fellow student Eliya Craig from Tyrone are investigating the effectiveness of PRG’s transportation services. Their preliminary findings were presented at the American College of Clinical Pharmacy’s annual meeting held in Minneapolis on October 18. This presentation showcased their research on how access to reliable transportation can alleviate some of the burdens faced by patients undergoing treatment.
In addition to their work on transportation, Straka and Craig are leading another project that analyzes patient surveys and perceptions of care. By examining feedback from patients, they aim to identify areas where PRG can enhance its support and resources, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for those affected by cancer.
Ongoing Commitment and Future Impact
These research initiatives are set to continue throughout the fall and spring semesters, reflecting the students’ commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of cancer patients. The collaboration between Cedarville University and PRG not only enriches the educational experience for these pharmacy students but also contributes valuable insights into patient care strategies.
As they delve deeper into their research, Straka and her colleagues hope to provide evidence-based recommendations that can inform healthcare practices and policies. Their work exemplifies the powerful impact of academic and nonprofit partnerships in addressing critical health challenges faced by communities.
In summary, the collaborative efforts between Cedarville University’s School of Pharmacy and Pink Ribbon Good represent an important step forward in understanding and improving cancer patient care. Through research, education, and community support, they are helping to create a more compassionate and effective healthcare environment for those navigating the complexities of cancer treatment.
