We are so excited to announce that, thanks to the efforts of our partner affiliate in the Quad Cities, Friday, June 28th has been proclaimed by Governor Pritzker as “Community is Stronger than Cancer Day” in the state of Illinois! On this day each year, we unite with our fellow Cancer Support Community (CSC), Gilda’s Clubs, and healthcare partners to celebrate our tireless, compassionate work to help everyone impacted by cancer.
“The work that Gilda’s Club is providing is essential to help those in the cancer community. The main priority at the hospital is on your physical health. Gilda’s Club is vital in supporting your mental health through creating community, finding support, and using creativity as an outlet to process the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with cancer. I’ve made close friendships through Gilda’s that have brought me out of a dark space and I anticipate I’ll keep these friendships for years to come.” – Grace, GCC member since 2023
It’s no coincidence that June 28 is also the birthday of beloved Saturday Night Live star Gilda Radner who died of ovarian cancer. Her experience at The Wellness Community in Santa Monica, California inspired the creation of Gilda’s Club, which merged with The Wellness Community to form Cancer Support Community in 2009.
Gilda’s Club Chicago is part of a network of nearly 200 partner locations globally that provide over $50 million in support services to anyone facing the impact of this devastating disease—all at no cost to those who need our services. In addition to receiving support in our local community, GCC participants are presented opportunities to join forces with participants from other partner locations to advocate on issues important to cancer patients at the state and national levels and contribute to important research, kickstarting positive change in cancer care and the patient experience.
In recognition of Community Is Stronger Than Cancer Day, help us reach even more people who could benefit from being part of our community by sharing our message with family and friends impacted by cancer. Record your own story and tag us, share this page, or repost our social media messages with hashtags #CelebrateCSCGC and #CISTCD2024.
To explore our network’s many locations, go to cancersupportcommunity.org/find-location-near-you or call the Cancer Support Helpline at (888) 793-9355.
Thank you for helping show that Community Is Stronger Than Cancer!
Sincerely,
GCC Staff
Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!