A Note from the Executive Director | |
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It is with considerable sadness that I share some bad news from the extended Cancer Lifeline family. This fall, we experienced the loss of two remarkable individuals; Ed Gutkowski and Rica Hablero.
Ed Gutkowski, a long-time honorary member of our Advisory Board, died at age 85. Ed had been married to Gloria Gutkowski and helped her with the founding of Cancer Lifeline in 1973. Ed & I connected again earlier this year for the purpose of reflecting on Cancer Lifeline’s founding for our 50th Anniversary. Despite the fact that Ed was traveling from his home on Lopez Island for treatment at SCCA every two weeks as he fought multiple myeloma, he was such a positive force. He was funny, laughed easily and was so delighted to be sharing information about “who Gloria was” with me. Ed was a kind and humble man, and over the years, one of the most consistently complimentary and encouraging individuals. Over the last year we had begun to email each other more frequently and he had written me an email shortly before his passing apologizing for taking so long to get back to me, noting the multiple myeloma was back. He stated he had “just read the Cancer Lifeline newsletter-keep up the good work!” As his surviving wife Martha noted “Ed was a wonderful man to everyone he met. He was much loved.” Yes, he surely was. Ed is survived by his wife Martha and daughter Leslie.
Scroll further down to read about our dearly departed Lifeline Volunteer, Rica Halbero, Provided by our Lifeline Manager, Blair Lafavor.
More From the ED desk…
Last month when we released our newsletter, I reported that we were still short of reaching our big Resources for Hope fundraising goal of $515,000 with only a few days to go. I’m happy to share that a lot can happen in just a few days, and for us, it did! We concluded our campaign on time, and we raised over $575,000 for our Patient Financial Assistance Fund (PFAF).
The success of this campaign not only positions Cancer Lifeline to increase the number of patients we can provide urgent safety-net cash grants to in 2024, but it also allows us to increase our disbursements for the holiday months of November & December in 2023. While we always believe that no patient should be having to choose between paying a co-pay and buying groceries, we feel this is completely unacceptable during the holiday season!
So, a big THANK YOU to all of the amazing donors who helped us reach such a wonderful outcome for our annual Resources for Hope campaign! What a wonderful way to kick off the season of gratitude! And we have so much at Cancer Lifeline to be grateful for!
Despite a few bouts of COVID and some transitions, our staff is healthy and remains passionate about delivering Cancer Lifeline’s mission to improve the quality of life for all of those affected by a cancer diagnosis.
And we are blessed to have so much help from volunteers who share their time and resources so generously. Our Board of Directors is growing, and stretching themselves each year with their leadership and plans for bringing forward a strategic plan that improves the efficiency of our systems. Our Advisory Board continues to guide us with their big hearts, institutional memories and wisdom. Our Interns, and Admin and Lifeline volunteers continue to inspire, and help us stretch the amount of high-quality services we can provide alongside so many amazing contracted facilitators. Yes, we have so much to be grateful for at Cancer Lifeline.
Cancer sucks. It is hard, and it upends the lives of people all over our community. Yet, among those hardships are bright moments, hope and inspiration and yes, gratitude. Grateful we can come together with so many to make it better when and where we can.
Thank you for your help & Enjoy the season!
With love and gratitude,
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Joseph Yurgevich
Executive Director7 r
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In Loving Memory of Rica Hablero | |
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In the tapestry of life, some threads stand out for their vibrant colors and enduring strength. Rica Hablero was one such thread—a beacon of light whose warmth touched the lives of many. It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to Rica, a remarkable woman whose journey through cancer not only defined her resilience but also inspired her to provide support for those facing similar challenges.
Her decision to volunteer with Cancer Lifeline was a testament that, even in the face of adversity, one could find strength in supporting others. Rica quickly became a guiding light for those navigating cancer, offering empathy, understanding, and a genuine connection rooted in shared experiences.
Rica passed away in September, leaving behind a tapestry woven with threads of love, resilience, and unwavering dedication. Though she may no longer walk among us, her spirit remains alive in the countless lives she touched.
In memory of Rica Hablero, let us carry forward the torch of compassion and service. Whether it's supporting those facing cancer, contributing to community initiatives, or sharing the joy of travel, let us honor Rica's legacy by embodying the same love, generosity, and zest for life that defined her.
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Monthly Blog: Eating Healthfully Through the Holidays by Ami Karnosh, MSc Nutritionist | |
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As we enter the winter holiday season it can feel overwhelming if you are being extra conscientious about food choices. While there are great ideas for eating healthfully while celebrating, it is important to remember that this is a time for feasting. Being mindful of the celebrations and honoring the privilege of simply having food is enough to acknowledge the season. If you prefer to have specific guidelines for eating, start with these to lead you joyfully through meals. Do not deny yourself the foods you love. Do not deny yourself any special meals, especially when eating with your community or honoring ancestral foods.
Eating with enjoyment IS healthy eating. Read More
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Program Spotlight: Nature & Cancer: Guided Nature Meditation- Outdoors and Together | |
 | In September, Cancer Lifeline began a new outdoor program taking place in natural settings at public parks in and around the Seattle area. The first walk took place at Discovery Park, the second at Bellevue Botanical Gardens, and the third will take place at the Arboretum. The emphasis during these guided nature meditations is on encountering and connecting with the natural world as a part of that world. There are both in-person and online options for joining, to provide support to people who can move on flat, although not always paved, nature trails and for those able to enjoy the experience from their home location. The in-person group meets up 30 minutes before the online group and is offered instructions for the guided nature meditation as well as a short, guided visualization. The in-person attendees then have the option of exploring on their own or walking slowly alongside the guide as she offers a longer (30-minute) guided nature meditation for those also online. The events occur rain or shine. The in-person meetup is at 10 am and the nature meditation is over for both groups at 11:15am. After the walk, members of both groups are invited to share their experience of the nature meditation with other group members, separately for the in-person and online attendees. Sites are being identified for the upcoming January-April program season, so if you have any ideas, please send them our way. And come join us for the last one of the season on November 22! Registration is on Zoom, so please click here, and those selecting the in-person option will be sent an email with meeting location instructions. | |
Save the Date for #GivingTuesday on November 28th! | |
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For the past 50 years, Cancer Lifeline has been inspired by founder Gloria Gutkowski’s vision. A three-time cancer survivor, she set out to ensure that everyone living with cancer could talk to someone who understood what it meant to face this life-threatening diagnosis. Gloria achieved her dream in 1973, and today Cancer Lifeline is the leading cancer support organization in the Puget Sound region.
On November 28, community members across our region will come together to support hundreds of nonprofit organizations during #GivingTuesday. We invite you to join in and help us reach our goal of $15,000.
Your donation will ensure that Cancer Lifeline will continue to provide free and accessible emotional support, timely resources, and a broad range of educational and experiential programs that respond to the unique needs of people living with cancer.
Here is how you can get ready for #GivingTuesday:
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Make your gift by clicking here on or before November 28.
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Spread the word. Encourage your friends and family to donate by sharing why you support Cancer Lifeline on social media. Make sure to use hashtag #GivingTuesday and tag us!
Please join us in celebrating 50 years of optimizing the quality of life for thousands of cancer patients, survivors and caregivers with your gift so that Cancer Lifeline will be here for everyone who needs us.
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Welcome New Counseling Interns | |
As part of growing our capacity to support our clients, contracted clinicians, and support the development of new professionals interested in offering counseling to people whose lives are affected by cancer, we now have a robust internship program. This year, we have welcomed three interns to our counseling team: a Marriage and Family Therapy Associate who is obtaining a Medical Family Therapy Certificate from Seattle Pacific University, Natalie Goobes; a Bachelor of Social Work practicum intern from Seattle University, Liam Snow; and a second year Master’s of Social Work intern from the Smith College of Social Work, Aviva Wynn. Each of these interns volunteers their time with us to support their completion of their school program, as well as gain valuable experience interacting with Cancer Lifeline clients. Each of them has a designated clinical supervisor who meets with them regularly (2-3 supervision sessions per week) to support their growth and learning. We are very grateful for their time and dedication to our counseling program. We asked each of them what inspired them to be a part of our internship program, and they each replied: | |
"What inspires me about working at Cancer Lifeline is holding space for peace, hope, and healing in people’s lives and families who have or are survivors of a cancer diagnosis." ~Natalie Goobs
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"I am excited to be working with Cancer Lifeline because I have the chance to make an impact in people's lives." ~Liam Snow
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"I'm drawn to this work because I believe that human connection is one of the greatest gifts we have to offer one another in times of suffering. Whether through shared experiences or the sharing of unique experiences, connecting to others helps us feel whole when we can’t quite get there ourselves." ~Aviva Wynn
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Cancer Lifeline in the Community:
Healthy for the Holidays Dec 9th
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We are honored to be a part of the 14th annual Healthy for the Holidays event sponsored by the Fred Hutch Cancer Center Survivorship Program Saturday, Dec 9th from 8:30am-12:30pm. This event is designed to provide education and promote wellness for those living with cancer. Patients, survivors, caregivers, friends, families and healthcare professionals are invited to attend. In addition to the three presentations aimed to promote wellness after cancer, it will also include opportunities throughout the morning for community cancer organization exhibitor networking, so stop by and say hello! Coffee and a light continental breakfast will be provided and there is free parking on campus for attendees. Click Here to learn more and register. | |
Sponsor Spotlight: EvergreenHealth | |
Over 19 years ago, Cancer Lifeline was invited to host a support group for cancer patients at EvergreenHealth. That was just the beginning of our strong partnership offering comprehensive programs for those living with cancer and their loved ones. EvergreenHealth is recognized by Healthgrades as a Top 50 Hospital in Clinical Excellence. They also rank number 2 in the country by the Lown Institute for the high value of care they provide, lowering the cost of services and treatments for the families they serve while providing high quality care. Cancer Lifeline is proud to partner with EvergreenHeath and we thank them for their continued support. | |
Our Sponsors Make It Possible
Cancer Lifeline is grateful for the leadership and support of the following sponsors:
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Cancer Lifeline thanks myMDadvocate and Dr. Susan Baumgaertel for her ongoing support. myMDadvocate is a virtual consultation service serving patients as an advocate, guide, advisor, coach, resource, consultant, collaborator, educator, navigator, and partner.
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We are grateful & thank Jeannie & Bruce, one of Cancer Lifeline's long-time supporters for their ongoing support and sponsorship.
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We are grateful for the support of the Fred Hutch Cancer Center organization on so many levels - for our current Board Directors who are on the staff at Fred Hutch: Joanna Diallo, and Reetu Ghumman, and for their sponsorship!
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We began our formal hospital partnership with Overlake Medical Center in September of 2017, but our relationship reaches back to 2004 when Cancer Lifeline had office space in Bellevue. We are grateful for Overlake's ongoing support of our events.
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We appreciate Multicare who have been caring for Pacific Northwest communities since 1882. They are dedicated to providing vital health and wellness services to individuals and families from all walks of life.
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One of Cancer Lifeline's hospital partners, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has locations in both downtown Seattle and Federal Way. Cancer Lifeline is grateful for Virginia Mason's sponsorship of our events. | |
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Freestone Capital, an independent wealth and advisory firm, returns this year as an event sponsor. Our thanks to Cancer Lifeline Board Director and Treasurer Bobby Gentry.
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The Commerce Bank of Washington has enriched local businesses with highly personalized banking from local, experienced bankers dedicated to long-term relationships. We are grateful for the ongoing partnership which began in 1995.
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Mercer joins Cancer Lifeline again year as a 2023 sponsor thanks to the stewardship of Board Director Elizabeth Zech.
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Cancer Lifeline thanks wealth advisor, D A Davidson as an event sponsor. Our thanks to Advisory Board Member Jane Caron for her leadership.
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We thank Genentech as one of our sponsors. While this biotechnology corporation is committed to advancing science for the greater good, they are also committed to supporting our local cancer community.
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As we expand our services to serve cancer patients and their families in Pierce County, Cancer Lifeline is grateful for our collaboration with Northwest Medical Specialties and for their support. | |
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We have counted on ROI Technology Inc. to keep us safe, secure, and active on the internet since 2015. Cancer Lifeline salutes ROI Technology for their ongoing support of our events.
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Thank you to Seattle Children’s for their support! They provide patient care, advance new discoveries and treatments through pediatric research and they serve as the pediatric and adolescent academic medical center for Washington, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho – the largest region of any children’s hospital in the country. | |
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Dedicated to promoting the economic benefits of life science business and research for Washington state's economy and patients around the world, We Work for Health seeks to educate our elected leaders, the news media, and the communities they serve about these key contributions. Cancer Lifeline welcomes
We Work for Health back as a sponsor.
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(formerly Cornerstone Advisors) has been a steadfast sponsor of Cancer Lifeline's events.
Our thanks to for their continued support
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On the recommendation of our board member Sue Drummond, we thank Michael Weichbrodt with Morgan Stanley as one of Cancer Lifeline's sponsors.
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Thank you to Marshall & Sullivan for their ongoing support. By taking a hands-on approach to wealth management, Marshall & Sullivan are committed to helping their clients experience peace of mind around their financial futures. | |
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We welcome Seagen as one of our newest sponsors. They've been focusing on accelerating breakthroughs to transform cancer care and impact in patients lives for 25 years. We appreciate their support and passion for helping those living with cancer. | |
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Thank you to our 2023 sponsor Eli Lilly. Led by their core values of Integrity, Excellence, and Respect for People, Eli Lilly unites caring with discovery to create medicines that make life better for people around the world. Our thanks to Advisory Board Member Nate Miles for bringing us together.
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Cancer Lifeline thanks Windermere Foundation for their support. Windermere Foundations commitment to building thriving communities has helped them grow into one of the largest and most respected real estate brands in the country, with more than 300 offices and 7,000 agents throughout the Western U.S. and Mexico.
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A huge thank you to Safeco Liberty Mutual Insurance for their support. Since 1923, they have been in the business of protecting families and individuals, making it simple to protect what matters to you most.
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For the sixth year in a row, Jennifer Evans and her Farmers Insurance agency have been a sponsor of our annual Fall Fundraiser, Resources for Hope and more. We are so grateful for Jen's ongoing support.
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One Dog Media helps businesses with website design that reinforce brand identity, e-commerce solutions, graphic design and more. We thank Lisa Oliver, in-kind sponsor, for this important work that allows us to reach and stay connected with the people we serve.
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Inquiries regarding opportunities to sponsor events and programs can be directed
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