Time for Change
It’s funny where life leads you.
Thirty years ago at the age of 37, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I would never have dreamed that this diagnosis would lead to a role with an amazing nonprofit organization, and the most fulfilling career I could imagine. Now, after over 25 years, it is time for me to step down as director, a truly bittersweet experience.
My work with Friend for Life has been a gift. I have learned so much, grown through many challenges, and—the best part—come to know and love so many remarkable people. I remain especially grateful to Founders Phil Bramblette and Chuck Sandmann, as well as to Judy Hubbs Sisk, for creating Friend for Life…A Cancer Support Network 37 years ago, and to my predecessor Joan Steiner. Among the many blessings this organization has brought to my life, it is the people that mean the most.
Thanks to supporters like you, the organization has grown during my tenure. Our growth has not happened at lightning speed, nor are we topping Fortune 500 charts. Rather, we’ve grown in people, and in the depth and breadth of support we provide. Our volunteer numbers have grown from around a dozen to over 400 currently active Peer Navigators. And, if you consider the women and men we have lost over the years, these numbers would be in the thousands. Those who have received peer support number in the tens of thousands over these 37 years. We now offer support for caregivers and have Peer Navigators from across the US and in a handful of other countries. Our Assistant Director lives in Lexington and our Board of Directors has representatives from the University of Kentucky/Markey Comprehensive Cancer Center and Appalachian Regional Healthcare.
The peer-to-peer connection is a remarkable relationship that brings people together through shared experience, and can span thousands of miles, making this world a smaller, more connected place.
Our Board of Directors (the BEST people) has formed a Search Committee, and we are currently accepting applications. The position is posted on the Friend for Life website.
I will continue to be on hand as needed in the future and am excited to see where this remarkable organization goes over the coming years. My heartfelt thanks goes to all of you who have played a role in the life of Friend for Life Cancer Support Network.