The annual event brought together philanthropists, health care industry leaders, patient advocates and other supporters to raise funds for the organization’s free counseling, education and financial assistance programs.

“CancerCare is one of the few organizations that focus on patients and families WITH cancer,” shared Kay, a CancerCare client.

The CancerCare for Kids Winter Warmth program is now in its third year! In December 2018, CancerCare for Kids sent out 155 winter warmth packages to children and teens affected by cancer. This program currently assists families living in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. This year, the package contained: socks, gloves, a fleece blanket, scarves, pocket tissues, hand warmers and hats generously donated by Love Your Melon.

On December 13, CancerCare’s New Jersey Office, in partnership with Eisai Inc., hosted its 7th Annual Holiday Party. The party was open to all of CancerCare’s clients, including families, adults and caregivers affected by cancer. Eisai Inc. graciously hosted 200+ children, adults and staff members in their office space in the Woodcliff Lakes, New Jersey.

Our story started 35 years ago when my family and I decided that we want to “go big” with holiday lights since we had the room and property to make this happen. First, we started with a few thousand lights, some plastic figurines and other holiday items. As time went on, the display grew and grew.

CancerCare wishes to extend our warmest thanks to the Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) New York Association during this holiday season! The national academic honor society recently donated funds and gifts to CancerCare clients, as part of its 2018 Holiday Celebration & Toy Drive.

As the year comes to a close, we’d like to take a moment to reflect on all we’ve accomplished throughout the year to help people affected by cancer. Looking back on 2018, here are just a few highlights:

CancerCare recently held a second lung cancer roundtable discussion titled, “The Role of Lung Advocacy Organizations in Biomarker Testing.”

Longtime CancerCare supporter and volunteer, Nancy Laracy, was originally diagnosed with fibromyalgia and an autoimmune disease in 1997. In 2001, Nancy’s life changed when her family decided to adopt a rabbit named Bunny Boy. Bunny Boy and Nancy quickly became inseparable and became an important member of the family. “He was a breath of fresh air that came into my life at the right moment,” shared Nancy.

Before being diagnosed with ovarian cancer, Linda Dimuro actively volunteered in her local community, including Valley Hospital. After using CancerCare’s services and taking a year to focus on her recovery, Linda is giving back to her community again by participating in CancerCare’s New Jersey Walk/Run for Hope. Linda says, “CancerCare has done so much for me and this is something I can get involved in that that helps me both mentally and physically.”