Throughout her life, Efrat Livny has enjoyed solo careers as a biotechnology information specialist, an artist, and a bodyworker to name a few. But it’s the collective energy of individuals coming together, sharing their unique gifts, and pooling their diverse strengths to make a positive difference, that fuels her spirit. It was that energy and…
Read MoreGilda’s Club Madison Founders’ Stories: Amy Nickles
When asked which three words best describe her, Amy Nickles replies, “An inveterate volunteer.” “I can never say no!” she jokes as she describes her many volunteer positions throughout Dane county over the years, including serving as chair of Attic Angel Association and the American Girl Benefit Sale for Madison Children’s Museum. One position Amy…
Read MoreChampion Spotlight: Exact Sciences
Exact Sciences and Gilda’s Club United in Mission Exact Sciences has partnered with Gilda’s Club for nearly a decade. “Exact Sciences and Gilda’s are united in their mission to eradicate cancer,” shares Nicole Hessels, Senior Director, Wellness, Engagement and Experience at Exact Sciences and Secretary of the Gilda’s Club Board of Directors. “It makes us…
Read MoreLooking for Connection- Tai Chi Classes at Gilda’s Club
“It has surprised me how natural it was to become a volunteer,” shares Jing Cao, volunteer instructor for Gilda’s Club’s Tai Chi classes. Jing initially became involved with Gilda’s Club in a different volunteer capacity, as an intern. She interned while a second year PhD student in the UW Madison Rehabilitation Counselor Education Program. Her…
Read MoreCreating a Refuge Through Yoga
Volunteer Karen Du Charme Shares How Her Yoga Class Created a “Sanga,” a Community “Yoga was my outlet, my refuge,” explains volunteer Karen DuCharme of her time as a caregiver. Karen’s role as a volunteer yoga instructor at Gilda’s Club feels very personal to her. She got her yoga certification in 2014, but, shortly thereafter,…
Read MoreAndy Gives Back in Memory of His Dad
“I believe in the power of cancer support.” 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…
Read MoreGrowing Up at Gilda’s
My name is Payton. I am 14 years old, but have been a volunteer for about nine years now and have experienced and learned many things along the way. You may not know, but the reason I started volunteering in the first place is because, when I was about one year old, my mom was diagnosed…
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