Courage & Cancer: Evening of Stories Event Raises Over $47,000 to Support Cancer Patients

For Immediate Release: June 8, 2023
Media Contact: Rachel Hye Youn Rupright, Foundation Administrator
rachel.rupright@usoncology.com
Phone: (518) 373-3950

[Albany, N.Y.] – The NYOH Community Cancer Foundation is delighted to announce that its inaugural event, Courage & Cancer: Evening of Stories, was an astounding success, raising over $47,000. The event, held at The Linda, WAMC’s Performing Arts Studio, on Thursday, May 25, 2023, brought together a compassionate community dedicated to alleviating financial hardship for individuals diagnosed and living with cancer.

The Evening of Stories showcased a remarkable lineup of cancer survivors and those affected by cancer, who shared their inspiring personal journeys on stage. Each storyteller captivated the audience with their heartfelt narratives, revealing the triumphs and challenges they faced while living with cancer. The event was even more memorable through the guidance and coaching of Emily Rubin, an acclaimed author, writing instructor, and breast cancer survivor.

The Courage & Cancer: Evening of Stories event also presented an opportunity to recognize two esteemed NYOH Community Cancer Foundation supporters. We sincerely thank Callanan Industries and the Mechanicville Stillwater Breast Cancer Walk for their longstanding commitment and unwavering support. Their dedication has significantly impacted the lives of countless individuals affected by cancer.

With the funds raised at the event, the NYOH Community Cancer Foundation will further its mission of alleviating financial hardship for community members diagnosed and living with cancer. These proceeds will enable individuals to focus on their treatment and improve their quality of life, ensuring they receive the necessary support during their challenging journey.

The Courage & Cancer: Evening of Stories event featured a diverse group of storytellers, each with a unique perspective on cancer. The lineup included:

• Liz Isabelle: Originally from central Vermont, Liz Isabelle is a writer and public health professional. With a Master of Arts in Women’s Health, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for empowering others.
• Joslyn McArdle: A graduate of the State University College at Buffalo State, Joslyn McArdle has dedicated over a decade to working in the not-for-profit sector. She believes in the power of giving back to her community.
• Tia Olds, MD: Dr. Tia Olds is a board-certified radiation oncologist serving patients at NYOH for over a decade. Her expertise and compassionate care have made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals.
• Emily Rubin: As a breast cancer survivor and writing instructor, Emily Rubin brings a unique perspective to the Evening of Stories. Her experience and passion for storytelling have inspired many on their healing journeys.
• Elliot Sobel: Elliot Sobel, along with his wife Beth, is an active member of the Hillsdale community. With a background in technology and a passion for theater and gardening, Elliot brings a diverse perspective to the Evening of Stories.
• Catherine Zampier: Catherine Zampier is a 12-year breast cancer survivor and an experienced educator. Her resilience and zest for life inspire many, and she is currently working on her next children’s book.

The NYOH Community Cancer Foundation would like to extend its sincerest gratitude to all attendees, sponsors, Board of Directors, volunteers, and partners who made the Courage & Cancer: Evening of Stories event a resounding success. Their unwavering support and generosity have been instrumental in helping the Foundation provide compassionate care, support, and resources to those affected by cancer.

For more information about the NYOH Community Cancer Foundation and upcoming events, please visit our website at www.nyohfoundation.org.

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Photo Captions:

Photo 1: Courage & Cancer: Evening of Stories storytellers L-R Emily Rubin, Elliot Sobel, Joslyn McArdle, Catherine Zampier, Liz Isabelle & Dr. Tia Olds

Photo 2: Mechanicville-Stillwater Breast Cancer Walk representatives L-R Carmella Ramnes and Christina Starks

Photo 3: Representatives from Callanan Industries

About the NYOH Community Cancer Foundation

Founded by a group of NYOH physicians, staff, and patients, the NYOH Community Cancer Foundation has been providing financial assistance to local cancer patients since 2000. The mission of the NYOH Community Cancer Foundation is to alleviate financial hardship for community members diagnosed and living with cancer, allowing them to focus on treatment and improve their quality of life. By paying for rent and household bills or providing gift cards to purchase gas and groceries, we help people living with cancer focus on their treatment instead of worrying about daily household stressors. The Foundation also supports limited patient education and patient workshops. In 2022, the NYOH Community Cancer Foundation provided financial assistance to over 400 cancer patients in the Capital Region. To learn more or make a donation today, visit nyohfoundation.org.