We all have some sort of connection to cancer. One of the issues that takes place from my point of view is the word ‘cancer’ being labeled taboo. Not many people are comfortable speaking about cancer. My father was diagnosed with cancer in 2007 and fought for 3 years before losing his battle. During that time, I was his main point of care. From home-care to long term nursing (which was only to be temporary) and I was a 21-year-old faced with something new to me. It was something we did not speak of comfortably and we both struggled through the processes.
My father was a very stubborn man and believed his cancer diagnosis was a minor hurdle to get through, so my ignorance believed just that. I did not have people to reach out to for support. And as a result, I feel this was a struggle that continued with me through most of the years to follow.
In the last 4 years I have been able to connect with so many amazing people. Not only in my immediate community, but with the Madison community as well. From school districts to business owners and public service individuals. There is no way to share the services Gilda’s provides without reaching anyone who is struggling with cancer, and that is exactly what I love and want to do. Being directly involved with such an intense experience with so many people is a deeply humbling opportunity.
I joined the governing board of Gilda’s Club Madison in January of 2021 because I am proud to share my time, financial support, and skills because I believe in the power of cancer support. No one should have to face cancer alone and thanks to Gilda’s Club, no one in our community has to.
Would you like to learn more about how you can share your time and talents with Gilda’s Club Madison? Check out our Volunteer Opportunities.