Wellness becomes Cancer Support Community creating Wellness

This past weekend I traveled to Sarasota, FL to celebrate the Grand Opening of the brand new Cancer Support Community (formerly Wellness Organization) facility. I don’t normally fly across the country for such events, but I did this time because my dad, who is the Vice Chair on the Board for the Southwest chapter was integral in helping get the new building built.

What Cancer Support Community offers is support and hope, and this gorgeous, LEED -certified building is the most inviting and serene setting for one to receive both. I was overwhelmed by the beauty of the building, and the dedication of the Board, staff and volunteers.

My dad was honored for his dedication, time, fundraising efforts as well as his own personal donations. In fact they named the library after him and his wife! It is called the Alfred and Adela Rose Library. Go Dad!

Cancer Support Group is a national non-profit organization dedicated to providing free emotional support, education and hope for people and their families affected by cancer. Through participation in professionally led support groups, educational workshops and mind/body programs people affected by cancer learn vital skills to regain control, reduce feelings of isolation and restore hope-regardless of the stage of disease. Since 1996 when Wellness in Southwest Florida opened their doors, they have served over 5000 people affected by cancer. This chapter is one of 22 nationally.

On Saturday, during the Open House, a woman approached my dad and said “I wanted to thank you for all of your hard work in this community. I am a client here at Cancer Support Community and your efforts have made a difference to me.” She is one of many who have personally thanked him.

If you can’t tell, I’m immensely proud of my father’s passion and dedication toward creating this haven that truly makes a difference in people’s lives.

Now that I have a better understanding of what Cancer Support Community does, I can tell the people in my circle how critical it is for people undergoing cancer treatment to feel supported and have workshops available to them free of charge. If you know of anyone who might benefit from their services, please find out if there is a chapter in your area. There is also a wonderful online support community for people who don’t live near a chapter.
http://www.thewellnesscommunity.org/