Post-treatment cancer patients can qualify for up to $2,500 in medication assistance through a new program launched by the Nicolette Baldovino Community Foundation.

Baldovino was a pharmacist and founder of Island Family Pharmacy who passed away from cancer in 2022 at the age of 36.

The foundation that was set up in her honor announced on Wednesday that it is now accepting applications for a cancer medication assistance and pharmacy support program for recovering patients.

The program provides financial assistance to Guam residents who require ongoing cancer-related medications following primary treatment such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, according to a news release.

The foundation has also partnered with local oncologists and pharmacies to provide other help, including coverage of co-payments for insured patients, self-pay formulary rates for uninsured patients, and pharmacy counseling and support to continue with the medication regimen.

The program is funded through the Guam Cancer Trust Fund, and each medication request requires certification of medical necessity from the patient’s treating oncologist, the foundation said.

Baldovino was a doctor of pharmacy and a 2003 Academy of Our Lady of Guam graduate who opened Island Family Pharmacy in December 2021 and passed away just three months later in March, according to Post files.

During a posthumous grand opening ceremony of the pharmacy in July, her mother, local businesswoman and restaurateur Nenita Baldovino, told the Post, “(Nicolette) worked so hard off-island for 18 years, and she returned to create this pharmacy as a form of community service.” 

“This is a memorable day for us because it’s not only the grand opening but (also) the founder’s birthday,” the mother added. “We have an excellent team, a top-notch team, and we will work hard to continue her legacy.”

Applicants for assistance must be residents of Guam, have a documented cancer diagnosis, and have an oncologist prescription for post-treatment or maintenance oncology medication.

For more information, email the foundation at community@nicolettebaldovinofoundation.com.