no one walks alone
Islands Against Cancer
At Islands Against Cancer, Inc., our mission is to empower cancer patients by providing access to innovative tools, personalized advocacy, and unwavering community support. We are dedicated to improving the journey of those facing cancer through compassionate care, resources tailored to their needs, and initiatives that foster hope and resilience. Together, we strive to make a meaningful difference, one patient at a time.
Helping Cancer Patients Live Longer & Better Lives
In the Lowcountry of South Carolina
Cancer: A Global Challenge, A Local Response
Cancer is a serious health issue worldwide and the second leading cause of death in the United States.
We’re your local connection to cancer advocacy, support programs, and resources. Whether you’re looking for guidance, community, or financial assistance, we’re here to help.
If you need a helping hand, start here. Let’s work together to make the journey a little easier.
The Story Behind Islands Against Cancer, Inc.
Islands Against Cancer, Inc. was founded by Keri Seay in honor of her father, Pat Campbell, Sr., both born and raised in Charleston, SC. In March 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Pat was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Although given just six months to live, Pat lived 18 months, surrounded by the unwavering support of his family and friends who advocated for his care and ensured his needs were met.
During his treatments, Pat witnessed many fellow cancer patients struggling—not just with their diagnoses, but with the lack of support systems to guide them. Despite his own battle, Pat spent his chemotherapy sessions encouraging other patients to remain optimistic. However, the despair he saw motivated him and his daughter, Keri, to find a way to make a meaningful difference for those facing cancer alone or with minimal support.
Together, they founded Islands Against Cancer, Inc. and began on the journey of creating tools to empower patients, starting with the development of a 1,100+ page Digital Medical Navigational Planner. Quickly, they realized that the planner alone would not be enough. Patients needed not just tools but a comprehensive process to navigate the complexities of cancer care. Over three years of relentless effort, filled with setbacks and triumphs, they built and refined their vision, fundraising and advocating for the resources needed to make a tangible impact.
Tragically, Pat Campbell, Sr. passed away on October 20, 2022, before seeing the full realization of their dream. However, his legacy of compassion and determination continues to inspire the mission of Islands Against Cancer. In January 2025, the pilot program for the digital planners launched in collaboration with two local physician offices—the same doctors who had cared for Pat during his journey. Their endorsement of this initiative underscores the profound need for such resources.
To make this vision a reality for more patients, Islands Against Cancer needs your support. Donations fund the purchase of devices equipped with personalized apps, the development and maintenance of dashboards for real-time support, and the compensation of IT advocates who work closely with patients, doctors, and staff. Your generosity also supports our Lunch and Learn programs and conferences, fostering collaboration between the medical community and patients, ensuring that no one faces cancer alone.
Together, we can bridge the gaps in care, honor Pat Campbell, Sr.’s legacy, and help every patient receive the support they need to thrive.
Programs and Initiatives
We are working everyday to assist cancer patients and their caregivers to navigate the winding and often confusing roads of care.
IAC, Inc. iPads for Medical Navigation
Our iPads, equipped with the Islands Against Cancer (IAC, Inc.) digital planner, helpful apps, and personalized links, are designed to meet your needs.
When you borrow an iPad, you’ll also be matched with an advocate who will help you set it up and provide ongoing support throughout the loan period.
Quarterly Lunch and Learns
Lunch and Learn sessions every quarter. These gatherings will focus on enhancing cancer care through collaboration and education. Attendees can expect insightful discussions with healthcare professionals, caregivers, and advocates. Each session includes workshops, panels, and networking opportunities to drive meaningful conversations and actionable solutions.
Oncology Wellness Conference
This year’s Oncology Wellness Conference will be a space for patients, caregivers, and professionals to come together and explore holistic approaches to cancer care. From keynote addresses to interactive breakout groups, we’ll tackle the challenges of cancer treatment and focus on improving quality of life.
How We Raise Money & How It Helps Cancer Patients
Pat Campbell, Sr., co-founder of Islands Against Cancer, Inc., created specially designed sunshirts right here in Charleston, SC, with our coastal community in mind.
The proceeds from these sunshirts played a key role in establishing Islands Against Cancer, Inc. They also provide meaningful gifts for local cancer patients. These gifts not only foster a sense of community but also offer practical protection from the sun’s harmful rays—something especially important during treatment.
Every purchase makes a difference, helping us support and protect those in need.
Suspended Sales for the time being. Shirts are donated to Cancer Warriors as requested and available.
Fundraising Events
DONATIONS
Why Your Support Matters to Islands Against Cancer (IAC, Inc.)
At Islands Against Cancer, we are dedicated to bridging the growing gaps in medical care, ensuring cancer patients can live longer and better lives. With the increasing reliance on electronic systems and the shift of responsibility onto patients to advocate for themselves, navigating a cancer diagnosis has become more challenging than ever. Doctors often have limited time to spend with patients, and corporate-run healthcare systems have led to a disconnection in processes, leaving many patients, especially baby boomers and those economically disadvantaged, struggling to manage their care.
IAC, Inc. works tirelessly to fill these gaps through innovative solutions like our Digital Medical Navigational Planners. These devices, equipped with essential apps, empower patients to manage their care effectively, receive real-time updates specific to their diagnosis, and stay informed about their treatment. Each patient is assigned an IT advocate to assist with setup, management, and ongoing support for these tools, ensuring they can focus on healing rather than logistical challenges. Additionally, our Lunch and Learn sessions bring together patients, caregivers, and medical staff, fostering collaboration and education to improve outcomes and provide critical support for the medical community.
Your donations enable us to provide these life-changing resources and services. Together, we can ensure that no one has to face cancer alone or unprepared. Help us continue to make a difference—your support means the world to those in need.
Cancer Warrior Poetry Project
Through our Healing Through Words program, cancer warriors can share their unique journeys by creating personalized poems. These poems, crafted from guided reflections, become cherished keepsakes that inspire others and provide a healing outlet for the writers. Participants can even receive their poems as framed art or in other custom formats.
