BATON ROUGE, La. – Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center today announced that Cancer Services will transition to the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Survivorship Center, strengthening the organization’s commitment to supporting individuals and families throughout every stage of the cancer journey.
The announcement marks an evolutionary step for Cancer Services, a community non-profit founded in 1959 to meet the tangible needs of people living with cancer in the greater Baton Rouge area. The transition brings the organization’s long-standing programs and services under the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Survivorship Center name while preserving its legacy of compassionate, community-based support.
Mary Bird Perkins acquired Cancer Services as a wholly owned subsidiary in 2018, providing administrative support in areas such as accounting, marketing and vendor services while ensuring philanthropic support remained directed toward Cancer Services’ existing mission programs. The transition represents the continued evolution of that partnership and an opportunity to further integrate survivorship resources into Mary Bird Perkins’ comprehensive approach to cancer care.
“All of us at Mary Bird Perkins recognize that the needs of people affected by cancer extend well beyond treatment,” said Renea Duffin, vice president of cancer support and outreach at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. “The transition to the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Survivorship Center allows us to build on Cancer Services’ remarkable legacy while continuing to provide essential resources that help patients and families navigate the challenges of a cancer journey. We are deeply grateful to the donors, volunteers, staff and community partners who have made this work possible for more than 65 years.”
The Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Survivorship Center will retain all current Cancer Services program offerings, helping ensure continuity for existing clients. Services include support groups, counseling, exercise and wellness programs, nutritional assistance, medical supplies and equipment as well as educational programs and resources.
The Survivorship Center will also expand its offerings to include outpatient rehabilitation services through a partnership with Geaux Fight, a local oncology-focused physical rehabilitation practice. These services will further strengthen the Survivorship Center’s role as a comprehensive resource for cancer patients and survivors, bringing together a range of programs designed to support physical recovery, emotional well-being and quality of life.
“Cancer survivorship is about helping people navigate life during and after cancer treatment, with access to the resources and support they need along the way,” said Ailah Martin, manager of the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Survivorship Center. “Our existing programs and team will continue serving clients, and we’re excited about the opportunity to expand our services and connect even more people with the support that can make a meaningful difference in their lives.”
While the name is changing, the mission and services that have supported the community for decades will continue. Cancer Services’ more than 65-year history will also be honored through artwork in the Survivorship Center’s lobby, recognizing the organization’s lasting impact and the community’s role in sustaining its work.
Through the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Survivorship Center, Mary Bird Perkins will continue advancing its commitment to addressing the many needs that arise throughout a cancer journey, connecting patients and families with resources that support them beyond a diagnosis and treatment.
For more information about the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Survivorship Center and its programs, visit marybird.org/locations or call (225) 927-2273.
About Mary Bird Perkins Cancer CenterMary Bird Perkins Cancer Center is Louisiana’s largest cancer care organization and has been leading the fight against cancer for more than 50 years. Founded in Baton Rouge in 1971 by a group of community leaders, the Cancer Center now serves every region of Louisiana and communities across southwest Mississippi. With the most expansive team of highly-trained oncologists leveraging innovative therapies and technologies, Mary Bird Perkins is offering the most personalized treatment options available in the Gulf South. The Cancer Center’s emphasis on community-based care allows patients to access these resources close to home. From early detection through our innovative Prevention on the Go screening and education program, to diagnosis, treatment and life after cancer, Mary Bird Perkins offers a wide array of individualized support services to improve survivorship and lessen the burden of cancer. For more information, visit marybird.org.
