Jamie heard the words, “You have cancer” over a decade ago. She became a member of Gilda’s Club, and, while perusing the library one day, found a book about the healing power of writing groups. “While I was in chemo, I thought, ‘I need something to look forward to,” she remembers. So, she decided to…
Read MoreReconnecting with Myself through Art
By Amanda, Gilda’s Club Member I started attending the art classes last summer, completely on a whim. I was recovering from eight rounds of chemo and a second surgery and was getting ready to start 28 rounds of radiation. I was struggling mightily with anxiety and insomnia, in addition to challenges healing from surgery. Still…
Read MoreBecoming an Artist
By Lyn Jerde, Gilda’s Club member My name is Lyn Jerde. I have been a Gilda’s Club member since 2019, when I was diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. That cancer appears to be in remission, as is the breast cancer that was diagnosed in November 2020. Right now, my cardiac problems pose my biggest…
Read MoreGilda’s Club Madison Founders’ Stories: Efrat Livny
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 MoreFamily Night Returns
Gilda’s Club is once again filled with the sounds of giggles and family bonding on Tuesday nights. Family Night officially returned on February 14th. “Family Night has always been an anchor to the Gilda’s Club program,” shares Kirsten Norslien, Program Director. “When COVID hit, we had to majorly pivot.” When the pandemic started, Gilda’s was…
Read MoreThe Great Outdoors With Gilda’s
Regular outdoor activities in Madison and Milwaukee “It’s nice just to be able to get out and visit and not have to only talk about cancer,” explains Autumn Kath, Program Manager at Gilda’s Club. Autumn has been leading regular nature walks all over the Madison area, at places like the UW Arboretum and Pheasant Branch….
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