October 2024 brought exciting developments and meaningful impact for the Fightstrong Foundation, and it’s all possible because of your support. This month has been full of opportunities to support families, forge partnerships, and continue growing our mission. Here’s a look at what we achieved together:
Throughout October, we had the privilege of making four significant donations to families who are bravely facing the challenges of cancer. Each family’s journey is uniquely inspiring, filled with resilience and hope, and we feel honored to support them in ways that matter.
Individual and Family Support
Marian is a 37-year-old mother and occupational therapist whose life changed with a shocking colon cancer diagnosis. After a series of surgeries and now undergoing chemotherapy, she’s shown unwavering resilience while adjusting to a new way of life. Fightstrong Foundation had the privilege of supporting her with Amazon and Visa gift cards to help her and her family during this time. Her determination and gratitude inspire us all. Stay strong, Marian!
Aviann’s journey through Stage 2 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma began in September 2024, after nearly a year of health challenges that included night sweats, swollen lymph nodes, and eventually, a palpable lump in her breast. Diagnosed with classical Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, she embarked on six months of chemotherapy with her family’s support. As a mother to three children and a full-time professional, balancing treatment with life’s demands has been challenging. The Fightstrong Foundation was honored to assist her with a bulk grocery donation and ShopRite gift card, hoping to ease the burdens on her family during this time. Aviann’s strength is inspiring, and we’re proud to be a part of her journey
Evelyn’s journey through stage 2B HER2-positive breast cancer began in April 2021 when she discovered a lump in her right breast. After undergoing a rigorous treatment plan that included chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation, she celebrated being cancer-free for 20 months. However, her journey took another turn when she found a lump in her neck, indicating a recurrence of cancer. As a dedicated mother of two, Evelyn’s love for her children drives her every day, inspiring her to keep fighting. To celebrate her children's birthdays and create lasting memories, the Fightstrong Foundation was honored to donate a weekend getaway to Kalahari Resort in the Poconos. Evelyn’s strength and resilience are truly inspiring, and we are proud to support her on this journey.
Our Fourth Family Story is Delayed due to Being Unable to Meet for Health Reasons. Jonathan's story will be shared soon.
Looking Ahead
In a step towards expanding our support, we were thrilled to meet with three executives from JFK Hospital to discuss how the Fightstrong Foundation can play a role in their rehabilitation program for cancer patients. Through this partnership, we hope to help cancer survivors regain strength and resilience post-treatment, contributing to a positive recovery experience that aligns with our mission.
We also made our first donation to JFK’s infusion center by providing two LG StanByMe monitors. These monitors will bring comfort and convenience to patients during their treatments, creating a more supportive environment. We look forward to donating a celebration bell in the coming weeks, giving patients a symbolic way to mark milestones and share moments of victory and hope with those around them.
Continuing to build our network of support, we met with the board of the Children’s Specialized Unit at Rutgers University, setting the foundation for future collaborations. We’re excited to explore new ways to support the young patients in their care, bringing hope and resources to families facing pediatric cancer. In our meeting, we discussed our annual Christmas donation, which will be expanding to reach children of CSH of Robert Wood Johnson in 2024!
With each new connection, donation, and partnership, our commitment to supporting families on their cancer journeys grows stronger. Together, we are creating lasting impacts and bringing encouragement to those who need it most. Thank you for being a part of the Fightstrong community – your support makes this work possible.