Courtesy Photo Pictured from left to right are Eileen Budnick, FFNM Legacy Foundation treasurer, and Lesslee Dort, Friends Together board-certified patient advocate and program manager.

ALPENA — First Federal of Northern Michigan Legacy Foundation presented a $2,000 check to Friends Together as one of their second quarter grant recipients. The $2,000 will be used in their “Back Together @ Friends Together” remodeling project to expand their support group meeting space.

Research has shown that support groups can improve both a person’s quality of life and survival. Support groups allow you to share with others who are going through the same or a similar experience. They provide a safe environment to discuss symptoms, treatments, and side effects with others who can provide invaluable information and tips on how to navigate your cancer journey. Most importantly, they can help you know that you are not alone and you have others to help you. Friends Together offers a number of weekly support groups for any person impacted by cancer.

Friends Together also provides educational events throughout the year, lodging assistance, and a transportation program that provides rides or gas cards to help ensure people get to their critical cancer care appointments. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with cancer, know that you are not alone. Friends Together is available to help you. Contact them at 989-356-3231 to get connected with the support you need.

All programs and services offered by Friends Together are free of charge thanks to generous contributions from local businesses, foundations, and individuals in the communities they serve. If you would like to help support them, you can donate online on their Friends Together Alpena Facebook page or their website at www.friendstogethermi.org or send a check to 105 Prentiss Street, Alpena, MI 49707.

Headquartered in Alpena, the FFNMLF is dedicated to serving community activities and nonprofit organizations in the Greater Alanson, Cheboygan, Gaylord, Lewiston, Oscoda, Mio, and Alpena areas. Apply at ffnmlegacyfoundation.com.