4-H Community Engagement Opportunity

   Every year as part of 4-H Appreciation we complete a community engagement project.  Just because COVID has thrown a twist into how we do things doesn't mean that should stop.  So this year we are pleased to announce a different type of community engagement project that we hope everyone can be a part of.

  One of our own 4-H Volunteers, Jane Hurst, is battling an aggressive form of brain cancer, Glioblastoma.  She has been undergoing radiation and chemo treatments since being diagnosed in June at stage four of this disease.  For those of you who know Jane, you know she is a fighter and has unbelievable faith, spirit, and grit.  She also has great compassion for her fellow man and animal.  

  This is why, in Jane's honor, we will be collecting items for Cancer Care bags to give to patients who are battling Cancer.  The bags have items to make patients more comfortable as they undergo treatment.  Please note due to COVID all items must be new and sealed before we can donate them.  Items we are looking for include:   

• Hand Sanitizer.  Patients with compromised immune systems due to chemo and radiation treatments need to be extra cautious about germs.  Pocket/purse size hand sanitizers, especially that are scentless are a great asset for them.  For many chemo patients their sense of taste and smell are off because of their chemo so something without scent is greatly appreciated.
• Moisturizers and lip balm. During chemotherapy, a common side effect is dry, painful skin and lips. Gentle skin moisturizers and lip balms can relieve dry skin and prevent sores or rashes. In your cancer care package, avoid products with a strong scent, as the smell can be irritating or nauseating to someone undergoing chemo.
• Snacks and water. These items serve many purposes, not the least of which is that snacking can pass the time during chemo treatments. Snacks like hard candy and fruit also help to counteract dry mouth and metal mouth (a metallic taste), common side effects of chemotherapy. Dehydration often causes headaches during chemotherapy, so it’s important for your loved one to drink lots of water. Decaffeinated and herbal teas are also a great addition to a care package as a way to provide relief and comfort. Gibson Cancer center requests no chocolate or microwave popcorn however they do have a Keurig in the waiting room and are always in need of Kcup beverages.

    Please remember due to COVID these need to be new in package items to be accepted, they can not accept hand made items as they have in the past for patients or reading material.  Many of you have had loved ones who you have supported through this process and may have other great ideas on comforting items to include.  We are asking that you donate what you feel comfortable donating.  We will be collecting these items during our 4-H drive through event December 5, from 3:30-4:30 pm.  To register for the 4-H Drive Through Please click on this link.  Please know you can also register on the 4-H App under programs.

    If you have any questions about this project please contact Wendy Maynor, 4-H Program Associate at wrmaynor@ncsu.edu or (910) 671-3276.