December 2023 News

Dear CanCare Family,

As the year draws to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible journey we've undertaken together in 2023. It is with immense joy and gratitude that I write to you today, acknowledging the triumphs and successes that have made this year truly remarkable.

Our success, without a doubt, is a collective achievement, and it's essential to recognize the invaluable contributions of every member of our CanCare family. To our dedicated volunteers who have generously given their time, compassion, and expertise – your selflessness is the heartbeat of our organization. Your unwavering commitment has touched countless lives, offering hope, comfort, and support to those navigating the challenges of cancer.

I extend my deepest gratitude to our clients, the brave individuals and families who have allowed us to be a part of their journey. Your strength, resilience, and trust in CanCare have inspired us to continually strive for excellence in the services we provide. Your stories are a testament to the impact we can make when we stand together in solidarity.

To our generous donors, you are the pillars that sustain our mission. Your financial support has not only allowed us to maintain our programs but has empowered us to expand our reach and make a difference in even more lives. Your belief in our cause fuels our determination to be a beacon of hope for those in need.

To our healthcare, corporate, congregation and nonprofit partners, we could not do this incredible work of providing a survivor by the side of anyone facing cancer without you! Thank you for being a part of our CanCare Family!

This year, together, we have achieved milestones that have strengthened the fabric of CanCare. Your collective efforts have made a profound impact, creating a community where no one faces cancer alone. Whether through lending a compassionate ear, providing practical assistance, or offering financial support, each action has contributed to the success we celebrate today.

As we enter a new year, let's carry forward the spirit of unity, compassion, and service that defines the CanCare family. There is much work to be done, many lives to touch, and many more stories of triumph to be written. I am confident that with your continued support, we will reach even greater heights in our mission to uplift and empower those affected by cancer.

Thank you, from the depths of my heart, for making this year a testament to the strength of the CanCare family. May the coming year bring new opportunities, continued success, and the fulfillment of our shared vision.

Warmest wishes,

Darcie Champagne Wells

President and CEO, CanCare Caregiver Volunteer

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By: Kris Kerlin, Director of Mission Impact

It is at the darkest time of year, where the days are shortest, that we celebrate holidays and traditions of light to illuminate that which would otherwise be in the shadows.

As a CanCare community, our mission of being a survivor or caregiver by the side of anyone touched by cancer, is about bringing light into the emotionally dark places of the cancer journey all year round.  And it takes a community – our donors, our community partners, our volunteers, our clients to create an experience of connection for those whose lives are disrupted by cancer.

Thank you all for making it possible to light the way with hope!

Together, this year, we have:

1. Touched over 1400 lives through 1:1 match connections, the most in the history of CanCare
2. Supported nearly 400 attendees in our survivor, caregiver and stage 4 survivors support groups
3. Welcomed 91 new volunteers into our CanCare family, from 13 different states
4. Spent over 2000 hours in hospital and treatment centers providing in person support to patients and caregivers in the midst of treatment
5. Recorded nearly 6000 hours of service by our volunteers
6. Spread awareness of CanCare in community events in churches, schools and conferences
7. Prayed together in weekly Prayer and Praise meetings

May the peace and hope of the season be with you and your families!

In joyful anticipation of a bright, shiny, new 2024!

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By: Daniella Martinez, Client & Volunteer Relations Specialist

We are thrilled to introduce you to one of our dedicated volunteers who brings passion and compassion to our organization. Meet Catalina Gutierrez, a physical therapist with a heart full of empathy and a love for helping others.

Originally from Colombia, she grew up in the lively capital city of Bogota. Catalina has over 15 years of experience as a physical therapist and takes immense pride in her career. Additionally she has recently embarked on a new academic journey, pursuing a master's degree in Sport Management at Sam Houston State University.

During a period of waiting for her student visa, she actively searched for volunteer opportunities and stumbled upon CanCare. Her personal experience as a caregiver for her father, who battled colon cancer, and her professional involvement with women facing breast cancer, drew her towards CanCare. Catalina believed her unique background could make a difference as a CanCare volunteer.

When asked what she wishes others knew about CanCare, Catalina emphasized the profound humanity, empathy, and love that permeates the organization. She highlighted the invaluable connections formed between volunteers and clients, as trust is built and individuals feel comfortable sharing their deepest feelings and personal stories. The mutual exchange of experiences creates a powerful bond that leaves a lasting impact on everyone involved.

We are grateful to have her as part of our volunteer community. Her dedication and commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others is truly admirable. Thank you, Catalina, for being a shining light within CanCare!

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Dear Friend,

I will never forget that day in February 2014 when the doctor said, “It’s confirmed, you have prostate cancer".  I had been dreading the biopsy results for weeks. Like so many, I was no stranger to cancer. Both my parents and my brother were cancer survivors. But nothing can prepare you to hear those words directed straight to you.

I was fortunate to have a friend who was a prostate cancer survivor who also happened to be a volunteer for CanCare. Stuart stood by my side through my journey, answering questions and providing perspective that only someone who had walked the same path could.  

My cancer diagnosis didn’t just impact me, it impacted my family. Stuart was also an invaluable supporter to my wife in her role as caregiver. The empathy and emotional clarity that grew in us instilled a spiritual peace and hope for us both.

The hope Stuart gave me was so instrumental to my healing and personal survivorship experience that I wanted to pay that gift forward. I signed up to serve as a CanCare volunteer so I could become that survivor by the side to others facing cancer.  It has been a life changing commitment and personal investment for me.  

CanCare is an incredible organization dedicated to providing hope and healing to the cancer community by ensuring anyone facing cancer can have a survivor by their side. Last year, CanCare served a record 1,411 cancer patients and caregivers by matching them with a survivor with a similar cancer story.

I am so passionate and committed to CanCare's mission and vision that I am now serving as the Chairman of the Board of Directors. We have bold plans to increase our impact on those facing cancer and we need your support!

As you consider your year-end giving this year, we ask for you to consider CanCare. With your support, we can provide HOPE to so many more facing cancer!

With gratitude,  

Val Brock

Cancer Survivor, Cancer Caregiver, and CanCare Volunteer

Chairman, CanCare Board of Directors

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As a cancer survivor or cancer caregiver, you have the power to give HOPE to someone facing cancer today.

Send in your application to reserve your spot today!

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