Our History
For over 27 years, Gilda’s Club Chicago has provided a free, supportive community for anyone impacted by cancer. From our welcoming clubhouse to hospital programs and virtual resources, we continue to uplift and strengthen individuals and families through every step of their cancer journey.
A Timeline of Our Journey
February 14, 1998: Gilda's Club Chicago opens it's Red Door (GCC was the 4th in the nation to open after NYC, South Florida, and Detroit)
2006: Began delivering programs in Chicagoland hospitals and with community partners
2009: Gilda's Club and The Wellness Community merge to form the nation-wide network, Cancer Support Community
2020: Launched the Virtual Clubhouse in response to the COVID-19 pandemic
2025: Celebrating 27 years of providing free cancer support to anyone impacted by cancer in Chicagoland
Who is Gilda?
And why is this her club?
Gilda Radner was a beloved actress, comedian, and original Saturday Night Live cast member, known for characters like Roseanne Rosannadanna and Lisa Loopner. In 1986, she was diagnosed with stage IV ovarian cancer, a diagnosis that led her to The Wellness Community, where she found emotional support and guidance from her therapist, Joanna Bull who then encouraged her to join support groups and participate in activities.
This experience deeply impacted Gilda, and after her passing in 1989, her husband Gene Wilder, along with Joanna Bull and Joel Siegel, founded Gilda’s Club in her honor. Inspired by her words, “Having cancer gave me membership to an elite club that no one wants to be a member of,” the first clubhouse opened in 1995, providing free emotional and social support to anyone impacted by cancer.
Today, Gilda’s Club Chicago continues her legacy, offering a welcoming, compassionate community where no one faces cancer alone.
Join Our Community
Whether you are living with cancer, supporting a loved one, or honoring someone’s memory, Gilda’s Club Chicago welcomes you. Join our free programs and become part of our compassionate community.
