Doctor looking at a patient and smiling.

NYOH Community Cancer Foundation

Who We Are

In 2000, a group of NYOH physicians and staff formed the Capital District Cancer Resource Foundation as an independent 501(c)(3) to provide emergency financial support for local residents undergoing cancer treatment.

Rebranded as the NYOH Community Cancer Foundation in 2007, the Foundation continues today by serving people in the Capital Region with support to lessen the physical and emotional burdens of their cancer diagnosis. For over 20 years, the Foundation has not only provided financial support to thousands of people, but also a little kindness to make a big difference during treatment.

Board of Directors

  • David Shaffer, MD, PhD, President

  • Jill Walsh, Vice President

  • Darci Emerich, Treasurer

  • Lisa Anne Proskin, Secretary

  • Susan Bradley

  • Beth Byrne

  • Arsyl De Jesus, MD

  • Christopher Kennedy, MBA, Immediate Past-President

  • Allyson Letendre Petrone, MHA, BSN, RN

Thank you to our past Board of Directors for their leadership and service

  • Father Christopher Welch
  • Deborah Dzingle

  • Janet Gargiulo, MD

  • Edwin Graham

  • Nancy Izzo

In Memory of Kristy Clement
1985-2023

  • Rachel Hye Youn Rupright, MSW, Foundation Administrator

  • Keri Alonzo, Program Coordinator

“Cancer is one of the biggest challenges we might ever face, physically, emotionally and financially. What the NYOH Community Cancer Foundation does for those struggling to meet daily needs while undergoing treatment is truly incredible. I am honored to be able to use my accounting background to serve as Treasurer and support the Foundation in fulfilling its mission.”

Darci Emerich, Treasurer, Board of Directors