We all know a friend, a family member, who has had cancer. Some of us have lost loved ones and some of us have watched our friends struggle against the disease. We all know how devastating cancer can be for the patient and his family. Of the million people living in the greater Jerusalem area, over a thousand are diagnosed with cancer every year. Though these patients receive some of the most advanced clinical treatments known, their emotional and social needs are not being met and cannot be met in a hospital setting. Research has determined that cancer patients who participated in support activities remained healthier for longer periods of time than those who did not have access to such services. Patients and their families report that their quality of life improved as a result of these activities.

Ma'agan aims to establish a center in Jerusalem where people with cancer together with their families and friends, join with one another in building social and emotional supports to supplement conventional medical care. A non-profit organization, Ma'agan will offer, free of charge, support and networking groups, lectures, workshops and social events in a, nonresidential, yet warm, home-like setting. No such program exists in Israel where the growing incidence of cancer, especially among young people and new immigrants, has generated an urgent need for auxiliary care. The center will welcome all in need - Jewish, Arab, religious, secular, new immigrants and veteran Israelis - with community outreach programs to spread awareness of the center to all.

Nobody should have to face cancer alone. Please join us and become a Founding Member of Ma'agan or leave a permanent legacy by donating a room.... a chair... a flower pot... and help make Ma'agan a reality for the people of Jerusalem.