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A quarterly publication from the Rio Grande Cancer Foundation
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knowunderstanding the cancer experienceknowin
the
Issue 24complimentary
magazine
Coming togetherThe Rio Grande Cancer Foundation unites with community
collaborators to provide help to cancer patients and organizations
Those submitting manuscripts, photographs, artwork, or other materials to In the Know for consideration should not send originals unless specifically requested to do so by In the Know in writing. Unsolicited manuscripts,photographs, and other submitted materials must be accompanied by a self-addressed overnight delivery return envelope, postage pre-paid. However, In the Know is not responsible for unsolicited submissions.©2012 Rio Grande Cancer Foundation. All rights reserved. No part of any article or photograph contained in this magazine may be reproduced in any way without the written consent of In the Know.In the Know assumes no responsibility whatsoever for errors, including without limitation, typographical errors or omissions in In the Know. Editorial or advertising content in In the Know does not necessarily reflect theopinions of the publishers. In the Know assumes no responsibility for the products or services advertised in this magazine. Publisher reserves the right to edit any material or refuse any advertising submitted.
inthis issue:Sometimes when I have
occasion to address a group,especially one of youngpeople, I will ask them if theyconsider themselves to be‘philanthropists’. Most of thetime my query is met withconfused silence, the audienceconsidering themselves wayout of league with Bill andMelinda Gates.
More often than not, the audience is pleased tolearn that their contribution of $15 to participate in awalk or bowl-a-thon, or their purchase of Girl Scoutcookies, or the weekly tithe to their church collectionbasket allots them the prestigious title of‘philanthropist’.
Philanthropy has strong roots in America. Thehardships of early settlers to North American, wheregovernment was weak and distant forced people tojoin together to govern themselves, to help each otherand to undertake community activities, such asbuilding schools and churches and fighting fires. Outof these experiences grew a tradition of citizeninitiatives and individual efforts to promote the publicwelfare. Religious leaders encouraged their membersto give to the poor and to the charitable works of theirchurches. Giving to needy people in theircommunities, to the poor in other lands, to the victimsof natural disasters and to their churches was astrongly felt obligation for many people.
This 24th issue of In the Know: Understanding the
Cancer Experience is dedicated to those people andorganizations whose efforts on the behalf of reducingthe burden of cancer in our community have beendirected through the Rio Grande Cancer Foundation.Through the creative fundraising efforts andcollaborations of our partners, we are able to provideservices and resources to hundreds of our fellowneighbors.
Often, there is a sense of uselessness whensomeone in our circle has a cancer diagnosis. We feelat a loss for offering anything other thanencouragement or prayers (which are incrediblyvaluable), and uncertain about how to be of help. Inaddition to sharing with you some of the imaginativestories about our fundraising partners, we haveincluded a tutorial on how to host your own cancerfundraiser.
Hope comes in unexpected ways and places. Weare very grateful for all the friends, our board ofdirectors and supporters who have helped us in 2012.Through their efforts, the Rio Grande CancerFoundation will provide in excess of $665,000 ingrants, services and programs here locally in El Pasothis year. We are proud to be the community’sresource for knowledge about living with and thrivingbeyond a cancer diagnosis and we are honored tohave so many strong relationships which help makethat possible. Thank you!
Sincerely,Patty Tiscareño
D E P A R T M E N T S
F E A T U R E S
In The Green House 22
What I Know Now 23
5
No man is an island and noorganization operates in a vacuum.Here we celebrate the terrificcontributions our collaborators havemade in helping enrich the lives ofpeople with cancer.
8pagepage
Community organizations andconcerned individuals have createdsome amazing events, celebrationsand musical performances to helpraise funds and spirits. Here we givethem a standing ovation!
Collaboration It takes a village
12Start planning your year by resolvingto attend or help one of the manycancer benefit events in our city.
Save the dates!
page
BOARD OF DIRECTORSGordon L. Black, M.D.,
Honorary
Michele Aboud
Robert Ash
Patricia Carter, RN
Ted Edmunds
Sam Faraone
Jeanne Foskett
Monica Gomez
Dan Olivas
Irene Pistella
Shelly Ruddock
Ruben Schaeffer
Ken Slavin
Polly Vaughn
Patti Wetzel, M.D.
Steve Yellen
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORPatricia Tiscareño
PROGRAM OFFICERJutta Ramirez
DIRECTOR OF MARKETINGAND COMMUNICATION
Izzy Mora
OFFICE MANAGER
Cindi Martinez
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Maggie Rodriguez
is published by the
Rio Grande CancerFoundation
10460 Vista del Sol, Suite 101El Paso, TX 79925
(915) 562-7660fax (915) 562-7841
www.rgcf.org
knowin the
by
Snappy PublishingTed Escobedo, Publisher
240 Thunderbird • Suite CEl Paso, Texas 79912
(915) 820-2800
As you already know and have experienced for
yourself, our magazine, “In The Know:
Understanding the Cancer Experience” is a real
treasure of insight and inspiration. One of our
biggest charges here at the Rio Grande Cancer
Foundation is to be FISCALLY prudent so we
can continue granting dollars to not-for-profits and
to sustain our own programs. Another is to be
SOCIALLY responsible to our community and
resources. To that end we are now offering two
ways for our readers to get In The Know and stay
in the know. We will offer a digital version of our
magazine to be a little more earth friendly and to
cut down on printing costs!
So for those of you who are computer savvy, you
will now be able to receive your copy of “In The
Know: Understanding the Cancer Experience” at
your desktop, smart phone or tablet. We DO
realize that there are still those readers that like to
hunker down in the tub or outside under a tree
reading our informative and enlightening articles
so for you, we will continue to deliver a paper
version of our magazine to your door.
All you have to do is to pick how you want
to….GET IN THE KNOW!
Get ‘In The Know’ delivered to yourin-box instead of your mailbox
Help RGCF save valuable time and resources
To receive your free online subscription of ‘In the Know’ and help the
Rio Grande Cancer Foundation simply submit your e-mail address
As you already know and have experienced for
yourself, our magazine, “In The Know:
Understanding the Cancer Experience” is a real
treasure of insight and inspiration. One of our
biggest charges here at the Rio Grande Cancer
Foundation is to be FISCALLY prudent so we
can continue granting dollars to not-for-profits and
to sustain our own programs. Another is to be
SOCIALLY responsible to our community and
resources. To that end we are now offering two
ways for our readers to get In The Know and stay
in the know. We will offer a digital version of our
magazine to be a little more earth friendly and to
cut down on printing costs!
So for those of you who are computer savvy, you
will now be able to receive your copy of “In The
Know: Understanding the Cancer Experience” at
your desktop, smart phone or tablet. We DO
realize that there are still those readers that like to
hunker down in the tub or outside under a tree
reading our informative and enlightening articles
so for you, we will continue to deliver a paper
version of our magazine to your door.
All you have to do is to pick how you want
to….GET IN THE KNOW!
Get ‘In The Know’ delivered to yourin-box instead of your mailbox
Help RGCF save valuable time and resources
To receive your free online subscription of ‘In the Know’ and help the
Rio Grande Cancer Foundation simply submit your e-mail address
66
CollaboratorsCelebrating
our
Myong’s Wigs and Beauty
Supplies
Patti Myong has been a dear
friend, partner, and supporter of
the Foundation for six years. As
a local business owner, Patti
knows firsthand the importance
of creating conditions in which a
local organization can work
together to realize
their collective
missions.
Through
her
extensive
wig
inventory,
Patti
provides
discounted
product to the
Rio Grande Cancer Foundation
so women undergoing hair loss
during cancer treatment can
access a free wig at any Green
House location.Myong’s Beauty Supplies 1360 Lee Trevino, #105, El Paso, TX
79936, 591-5336
Suk’s Beauty Supplies Suk and Richard Roy have one
of two stores on El Paso’s
eastside and are always
available and willing to donate
discontinued product to the Rio
Grande Cancer Foundation. The
couple has a deep love of our
community and a deep
understanding of women’s hair
needs during chemotherapy. We
are grateful for their partnership.Suk’s Beauty Supplies1840 Lee Trevino, #104, El Paso, TX
79936, 599-0089
Tri State Cosmetology
Institute,El Paso Regency
Beauty School, and Milan
Beauty Institute
As students strive for success in
attending beautician classes,
one exciting aspect is being able
to practice, practice and
practice. For us it becomes a
win-win situation when we can
take our donated wigs to the
beauty schools and have
cosmetology students wash and
style wigs for wear again. We
are able to strengthen their skills
and serve as a springboard for
students to acquire a deeper
understanding of one of the side
effects of cancer. Milan Institute of Cosmetology1580 George Dieter Dr., Ste. 207, 857-
4444, www.MilanInstitute.edu
Regency Beauty Institute1120 McRae Blvd., Bldg. D.,
El Paso, TX 79925, 595-5955,
www.regencybeauty.com
Tri-State Cosmetology6800 Gateway East, Bldg. 4,
El Paso, TX 79915, 778-1741,
www.tristatecosemetology.com
Montwood Church of Christ,
Warm Babies Sewing &
Knitting Group These very active sewing and
knitting groups divide their
energy by sewing knit caps and
scarves for our Four Seasons
Beauty Program. They are
continually striving to meet the
needs of women receiving
cancer treatment and are
devoted to bringing color,
comfort and warmth through
their sewing projects.
El Paso Independent & Ysleta
Independent School DistrictThe Fine Arts Creates Cancer
Enlightenment (FACCES), is a
program whereby Fine Arts
students in area high school
design and paint Styrofoam wig
heads for use in our Four
Seasons programs at Del Sol
Regional Oncology Center, El
Paso Treatment Center West
and East. Through this project,
students from differing
backgrounds and varying
experiences are better able to
relate to the cancer experience
and understand the role art
plays in healing our cancer
community.
Beauty Salons – Jacqui’s,
BarragansOur salon partners serve as
drop off centers for accepting
donated wig products and
stylists offer free ‘buzz’ cuts or
wig styling for Four Seasons
patrons.
Jacqueline Cordova and Locks
of LoveThe Rio Grande Cancer
Foundation works closely with
the Florida based non-profit,
Locks of Love as the
7
intermediary between long-
haired El Pasoans and their
tresses. Locks of Love is a
public non-profit organization
that provides hairpieces to
financially disadvantaged
children in the United States
and Canada under age 21
suffering from long-term
medical hair loss from any
diagnosis. Recently,
Jacqueline Cordova, an
RGCF volunteer and
advocate, put together a
program to recruit hair
donations during the month
ofOctober.
United Cab Company of
Houston, TexasThrough a partnership with
The Rio Grande Cancer
Foundation’s PATS (Patient
Air Transport Service)
program, the United Cab of
Houston, TX has been
providing discounted cab
vouchers to the foundation
for patient use for over 10
years. “United Cab provides
reliable service to patients
who must travel to
Houston for evaluation,
treatment, surgical procedure
or diagnostic study at one of
the many medical facilities;
most notably the University of
Texas MD Anderson Cancer
Center,” says Jutta Ramirez,
RGCF Program Officer.
“Certainly, this small courtesy
during a distressing situation
is enormously appreciated by
our patients, says Mrs.
Ramirez. “We value our
partnership with United Cab”,
she adds.
d
g
s
Riverside High School Cosmetology Class
how everyday people can
band together and do
extraordinary things for our
community
by patty tiscareño
it takes a villageWe have all heard the phrase “There are two
kinds of people in the world..” One could insert
almost any answer to complete their own version
of this notion. For example, there are people who
watch things happen and people who make things
happen. There are people who observe and
people who participate. There are those who are
immovable and those who move. We are proud of
the doers and movers featured on the following
page whose actions on behalf of the Rio Grande
Cancer Foundation speak louder than words.
8
it takes a visionWomen’s Council of Realtors and
Bras for the Cause
What happens
when you pair a
group of fast-
paced, connected,
tireless realtors
with a need to
expand services
to women in
chemotherapy?
You get twenty
decorated
brassieres, toned
and buffed fire
fighters and a fun-filled evening. On October
19, 2012, over 250 people turned out at the
Union Depot for a themed live bra auction, a
silent auction and fashion show. The bras
were paraded down the fashion runway on the
bodies of the men and women of the El Paso
Fire Department and local models. Proceeds
from the event generated funds to benefit the
Foundation’s Four Seasons Beauty Program at
the Rio Grande Cancer Foundation. The
Women’s Council of Realtors truly embodies
the mantra of the Four Seasons Beauty
Program in supporting the concept that
“Seasons may change, but Beauty Remains”.
The Schaeffer Family and
Coney Island
Ruben and Rita
Schaeffer
instilled in their
daughter, Rachel
the proud
tradition of
giving back to
the community
and when, at the
young age of 20,
ovarian cancer
struck her
personally, they
put that belief into practice. Now in its
second year, Rachel and her husband, Andy
Barraza, sponsor a Hot Dog Eating Contest at
the family’s iconic El Paso eatery, Coney
Island Hot Dog. Proceeds from the event
benefit the TEAL Fund for Hope: an Ovarian
Cancer Awareness fund at the Rio Grande
Cancer Foundation. The acronym T.E.A.L.
stands for Timeyl; Education; Awareness; and
Love with the intent to focus on TIMELY
detection of ovarian cancer which is critical in
helping women survive this very silent form
of cancer.
The event took place on Sunday September
30, 2012 in a family friendly, fun-filled
afternoon featuring timed hot dog eating
competition with men's and women's tracks, a
silent auction, door prizes, entertainment, the
TEAL Fund for Hope store and the super
delicious Coney Island Dogs. This year, the
event grossed $10,000 in proceeds for the Rio
Grande Cancer Foundation.
Kitchen Project
In 2009, Patty Tiscareño, the Rio Grande
Cancer Foundation’s Executive Director and
talented vocalist, took to the studio along with
the fine musicians from her group “PT & the
Cruisers” to produce The Kitchen Project.
The 13-song compilation was a fundraiser for
the Rio Grande Cancer Foundation in which
each song was sold in tribute to an individual
who has been through a cancer experience. In
the three years since its’ release ‘The Kitchen
Project’ has returned 100% of the proceeds –
about $43,000 - to the Rio Grande Cancer
Foundation to benefit programs and patients
in our local community.
While copies of the CD are still available for
purchase*, it is rumored that Patty and the
Cruisers are considering a second effort. We
want your feedback about which songs you
would like to hear on the next project. Email
us at [email protected] with your thoughts and
comments.
*log on to www.rgcf.org and link to the
Kitchen Project to order your copy.
Gilbert Gonzalez and the Sgt. Pepper
Wondrous Wigorium Concert
Like many retired people, Gilbert Gonzalez
works harder now than when he was fully
employed. When he stopped working at his
paying job, he began volunteering at the
Green House. With his soothing demeanor
and soft spoken voice, he was an instant hit
with the patients in treatment as a sounding
board for their needs. He became aware of
the increasing need for wigs, scarves,
mastectomy garments and head coverings,
especially during the holidays when cancer
can be an added interruption to an already
busy time of year. An accomplished
musician, Gilbert donned his alter ego ‘Sgt.
Pepper’, gathered a group of equally talented
musicians and put together the ‘Sgt. Pepper’s
Wondrous Wigorium’ spectacular concert
celebrating the music of the Beatles. The
$8,000 in proceeds from the concert held at El
Paso’s Chamizal National Memorial Park
supplemented the Four Season Beauty
Program at the Rio Grande Cancer
Foundation. The concert was such a success
that the organizers are talking about an annual
event! “This concert was not only a great joy
but it brought real relief to women struggling
with hair loss”, said Cindi Martinez,
coordinator for the Four Seasons Beauty
Program.
Luis Loya
The Green House utilizes the help of college
and university students in our Green House
locations in fulfillment of community
outreach core requirements. Many of the
students serve their time at various locations
and then include service to the Rio Grande
Cancer Foundation on their resumes. Some
of them, however, keep coming back. One
such volunteer, Luis Loya, in pursuing his
Bachelor’s in Communications degree at New
Mexico State University, made The Green
House the beneficiary of his efforts. Along
with Nathan Duran and Andrew McDonald,
the trio approached local businesses such as
The Double Eagle, Style America and Allen
Theatres for donations of goods and services
which they then turned into a raffle. The
group marketed and sold $200.00 worth of
tickets and donated the funds to The Green
House Cancer Resource Centers.
9
10
The Dummie’sguide for hosting
a CancerFundraiser
Adapted from
eHow.com
Cancer touches the lives of so many and
sometimes it is difficult to know how to
help the person or people battling the
disease. With some hard work, a
committed group of people and some
creative ideas, you can organize a
successful and meaningful event.
As with anything successful, plan, plan,
plan. And plan well in advance for the best
results.
What you’ll need:
• A small committee
• An event budget
• Brochures, flyers and posters
• Put together a committee of
hardworking, dedicated individuals
who want to help and know of
others who may want to attend.
Start with family, friends and
acquaintances you know who may
have a personal interest in helping to
organize a fundraiser to support
cancer patients. Involve people who
know others willing to support the
event by helping, attending or making
a donation. Manage your committee
effectively; meet regularly and make
sure committee members are
completing necessary tasks they
agreed to.
• Decide on an event that has been
successful for others. Avoid
"reinventing the wheel." Organize an
event that has been successful for
nonprofits and other groups that plan
fundraisers. Dinner dances, wine
tastings, bike rides, walks, motorcycle
rides and murder mystery events are
very popular fundraising events with
proven success. If you are unsure
where to begin, seek advice from a
familiar nonprofit and ask questions
about organizing a fundraiser it has
had success with in the past.
• Begin planning as far in advance
as possible, preferably months
before the event. Set a budget for
expenses, such as a deposit for a
venue, supplies and marketing costs.
Have a realistic goal in mind for
possible revenue. Determine in
advance if you will donate the money
to a cancer organization, a hospital or
to an individual or family affected by
the disease.
• Seek out sponsorships, raffle
prizes and/or auction items.
Business and individual sponsors will
contribute toward expenses and help
increase revenue. Raffle prizes and
auction items will encourage attendees
to spend more money at the event.
Promote your sponsors to increase
their exposure, which is one of the
reasons they have agreed to sponsor
your event in the first place. Seek
support from local restaurants, retail
shops, manufacturing companies, hair
salons, grocery stores and other
businesses.
• Market the event creatively four
to six weeks in advance. Utilize
flyers, brochures and posters to
advertise your fundraiser. Other cost-
effective marketing techniques include
email blasts (ask people to forward to
others who may be interested in
attending or sponsoring) and press
releases. Ask your local daily
newspaper or weekly publication to
consider writing a story on your event.
Tips and Warnings
• Be gracious and appreciative to
your committee members, sponsors
and raffle prize contributors. Send
Thank You letters when the event is
complete. Obtain necessary licenses
with your town or city to host a
fundraiser, including a temporary
liquor license if needed.
• If you have never organized a
fundraiser before, keep it simple the
first time around. Avoid an event such
as a golf tournament, which involves
more overhead costs and can be more
difficult to plan. Don’t create a lot of
work for the organization or person
you are donating the money to; if you
agree to plan the event, then you are
responsible for the execution and the
outcome. Don’t underestimated
expenses. Don’t promise more than
you can realistically deliver.
Read more: How to Organize a Fundraiser
for Cancer Patients | eHow.com
http://www.ehow.com/how_5033472_orga
nize-fundraiser-cancer-
patients.html#ixzz29ZoSYQCH
11
FEBRUARY
Organization:
Susan G. Komen for the Cure
Event: 21st Annual Race for the Cure
Date: February 17th
Location: TBD
APRIL
Organization:
Rio Grande Cancer Foundation
Event: 2nd Annual Sgt. Pepper’s Wondrous Wigorium
Concert
Date: April 27,2013
Location: TBD
MAY
Organization:
Candlelighters of the El Paso Area
Event: 8th Annual Tee Off with Candlelighters
Date: May 17, 2013
Location: Underwood Golf Complex
JUNE
Organization:
JLV Memorial Fund
Event: 5K Walk/Run for Men’s
Health/Prostate Cancer
Date: Saturday, June 1st
Location: TBD
Organization:
JLV Memorial Fund
Event: 2nd Annual Symposium for Men’s
Health/Prostate Cancer
Date: Saturday, June 29th
Location: TBD
AUGUST
Organization:
Rio Grande Cancer Foundation
Event: 5th Annual Keep On Dancing
Cancer Survivor Conference
Date: Saturday, August 24th
Location: Wyndham Hotel Airport
Organization:
Power of Pink
Event: 8th Annual Breast Cancer Survivor
Make-over Day
Date: August 24, 2013
Location: El Paso Community College
School of Cosmetology
12
Now is the time to resolve to be more involved in
2013. We have compiled a list of community
events that could use your help in some form.
Please either contact the organization or the Rio
Grande Cancer Foundation for more information.
Hope to see you there!
SEPTEMBER
Organization:
Rio Grande Cancer Foundation
TEAL Fund For HOPE
Event: 3rd Annual Coney Island Hot Dog Eating
Contest
Date: Month of September
Location: Coney Island of El Paso
Organization:
Candlelighter of the El Paso Area
Event: 4th Annual Guns N Hoses Baseball Tournament
featuring law enforcement and emergency service
providers
Date: September 7th
Location: Cohen Stadium
Organization:
Power of Pink
Event: Breast Cancer Awareness Month Kick-off and
Press Party
Date: Month of September
Where: TBD
OCTOBER
Organization:
Candlelighters of the El Paso Area
Event: 2nd Annual Polo for Courage Match
Date: October 5th
Location Santa Maria Polo Club
Organization:
Rio Grande Cancer Foundation/Women’s Council of
Realtors
Event: 4th Annual Bras for the Cause
Date: Month of October
Location: TBD
Organization:
University Breast Care Center
Event: Celebrate Life Fashion Show
Date: Month of October 2013
Location: TBD
13
14
Keep on Dancing 2012The 4th annual Keep on Dancing Cancer Survivor Conference was held August 27, 2012, at the Wyndham Airport
Hotel. The 200 participants in attendance enjoyed a day of education and inspiration about living fully with and
beyond a cancer diagnosis.
For more photos from the event, log onto www.rgcf.org
15
16
Mother’s Gifts – by Jana Mullins
Excerpt from Open Hands: Lessons
on Giving and Receiving
October 17, 1999. My forty-fifth
birthday. This day marked not only my
birth, but also my five-year
anniversary as a single mother a title I
hadn’t asked for, but one I was slowly
growing accustomed to.
It was only five years before that I
had gone through a life-changing
divorce, bringing to a startling halt my
twenty-year marriage and irrevocably
changing my life and the lives of my
three children. Suddenly, I was no
longer the supportive wife, but instead
a forty year-old college student raising
young children, starting a career and
building a new life. I could not help
but reflect on all the days I had felt so
overwhelmed. At times, those five
years seemed like an eternity.
However, through the prayers, love
and support of my family and friends,
my little family of four not only
survived, we began to thrive. I
realized that in the midst of life’s
mending, my own life had gently and
remarkably changed.
At work that morning, I found myself
thinking about other single mothers,
particularly those who might have little
support or encouragement. Knowing
how hard it is to be a single mom, I
picked up the phone and called
Memorial Hermann Hospital, a
Houston hospital that serves the
uninsured. I asked for Labor and
Delivery. Sandra, a kind, soft-spoken
woman answered the phone and I
inquired if there had been a baby born
that day. I explained that today was
my birthday and I wanted to give a gift
to a single mom, in particular one who
might not have support around her.
She said she would check and get
back with me.
A few hours later I received a call, “I
have a young single mother who has
just had a baby boy. She is here
alone.” I told her I would be over that
afternoon.
I was filled with a strange
excitement and anticipation as I
headed to the local grocery store. I
eagerly purchased flowers, an iconic
“It’s a Boy” balloon that I felt this new
mother MUST have, a little stuffed
teddy bear, a baby book and a card.
In the card I placed a small monetary
gift and explained that this gift was not
for her newborn son, but something
special just for her. In the note I
congratulated her on becoming the
wonderful mother I knew she would
be. I then brought my gift to the
hospital and left it there to be
delivered anonymously.
As I stepped outside those hospital
doors that afternoon, my eyes filled
with tears and my heart felt complete.
I stopped and offered a small prayer
to God. I prayed this beautiful young
family would forever feel God’s love
and support, and know that they were
not alone in this world.
I haven’t skipped a birthday at the
hospital since.
This has become the highlight of my
birthday and I cannot possibly imagine
spending the day any other way.
Over the years, I have received
pictures of the moms and their babies.
I have also received beautiful notes.
What they might not know, however,
is that their notes and expressions of
gratitude have always come to me,
like small hugs, at moments when I
needed them. In giving to other single
mothers, my life has been enriched
and I, over and over again abundantly
received.
Mother’s Gifts
mind, body, & soul
How one single mother found theinspiration to celebrate her birthday by
giving to others
17
“You give but little when yougive of your possessions. It iswhen you give of yourself thatyou truly give.” – Kahlil Gibran, The Prophet
“If my hands are fully occupiedin holding onto something, I canneither give nor receive.- Dorothee Solle
“Do your little bit of good whereyou are; it’s those little bits ofgood put together thatoverwhelm the world.”
– Archbishop Desmond Tutu
“There never was a person whodid anything worth doing, whodid not receive more than hegave.”– Henry Ward Beecher
“Giving connects two people,the giver and the receiver, andthis connection gives birth to anew sense of belonging.”
– Deepak Chopra
“In helping others, we shall helpourselves, for whatever good wegive out completes the circle andcomes back to us.”– Flora Edwards
18
foundationat the
For over 15 years the Rio
Grande Cancer Foundation has
offered programs and services
that are focused on caring for
and connecting El Paso's cancer
community.
Here, we outline some of the
ways we touch the lives of
cancer patients and their
families.
We are a homegrown El Paso
organization. Established in 1996 from the
proceeds of the El Paso Cancer Treatment
Center sale, the Rio Grande Cancer
Foundation exists exclusively to serve the
needs of our local cancer community.
The majority of the Foundation's
distributions support qualified, local non-
profits whose mission is related to cancer.
Look over the wide-ranging list of grantees
(facing page). We are proud to fund projects
which provide for quality of life, education,
support services and cancer prevention.
We are governed by a board of directors; a
stellar group of individuals who give freely of
their time and talent. Please see page 3 for a
complete list of our directors.
Our Mission
Since 1996 the Rio Grande Cancer
Foundation has been dedicated to reducing
the human and economic effects of cancer on
the citizens of El Paso County through the
financial support and development of
effective programs for advocacy, education,
early detection, and other services to cancer
patients and their families.
Our PhilosophyThe Rio Grande Cancer Foundation affirms:• All area residents are entitled to accurate and accessible information about ways to reduce
their risks of developing and dying from cancer.• All area residents are entitled to cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment,
rehabilitation, hospice and support services.• The human and financial impact of cancer on the people of the region can be reduced by
establishing strong, collaborative partnerships at state and local levels.• Cooperation among public, private, and volunteer agencies and individuals increases the
potential for limited resources to serve more people and minimize duplication of effort.
Creative Kids, Inc. Project Aim – Arts in Motion $ 10,000Be the Match Foundation Marrow Donor Program $ 10,000Cancer and Chronic Disease Consortium Care for Cancer Wellness Program $ 25,000Candlelighters of El Paso Helping Hands Program $ 30,000Children’s Grief Center of El Paso Grief Support for Children $ 5,000Hospice El Paso Unfunded Oncology Care $ 10,000University Medical Center Foundation Sobreviviendo El Cáncer/ $ 15,000
Surviving CancerVisiting Nurse Association Comprehensive Cancer Care $ 15,000El Paso Baptist Clinic Cancer Screenings for Women/ $ 30,000
Salary Support for Associate DirectorUniversity Breast Care Center / TTUHSC General Support $ 25,000Total Grants for 2012 $175,000
George H. Ball Child CareThe George Ball Childcare programprovides short-term child care for patients ortheir caregivers during follow-upappointments and/or treatment.
The program is:• Available to anyone undergoing active
treatment.• Intended to be used for six weeks or less,
not to replace regular childcare.• Open to children 3 months through 12
years of age.
• Drop-in daycare at any of 19 day carefacilities from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and afterschool until 6 p.m.
• This service is free to eligible participantsthrough the generosity of the YWCA of ElPaso.
• To sign up, please visit rgcf.org or contactJutta Ramirez 915-562-7660, for referralto the program. Then contact the YWCAchild care location of your choice to enroll
your child(ren)
Know more>
Our Programs
2012 Grants Funded by RGCF
foundationat the20
The Patient Assistance
Transportation Service (PATS)*
PATS provides airline transportation to
patients who are referred outside the El Paso
area for evaluation, treatment, surgery or or
diagnostic studies unavailable in El Paso.
• PATS is available to patients whose
treatment is unavailable locally and who
have a genuine financial need.
• Patients may apply for assistance once a
referral to another treatment facility within
the state of Texas has occurred.
• Upon receipt of written documentation
from the referring El Paso physician, the
program coordinator will ensure that a
round trip airline ticket has been purchased
for the patient only.
• Contact Jutta Ramirez or call
915-562-7660.
• Additional air and ground transportation
assistance for those receiving treatment in
Houston, Texas may be accessed through
the Houston Ground Angels. Follow this
link to apply for tranportation:
http://www.houstongroundangels.org/missi
ons/mission_requestm.asp
The Alliance
• The mission of the Alliance is to enhance
the lives of cancer patients by connecting
newly diagnosed with seasoned survivors
toward emotional and practical support.
Get Matched!
• You can make a difference
• Join our vision to bring one-on-one support
to people undergoing treatment for cancer.
As a survivor yourself, you will make a
positive difference in the lives of those
newly diagnosed or in active treatment.
• After a short training process, we will
match you with patients and you can
determine how often you would like to be
matched based upon your life situation and
commitments.
• Because the volunteer work is done
primarily over the telephone, you can give
support and make a difference from the
comfort of your own home. Our staff is
always available to answer questions to
provide guidance.
The Four Seasons Beauty Program
The program provides practical assistance
for women experiencing hair loss due to
chemotherapy.
• Post mastectomy garments, and free wigs,
hats, and scarves are available.
• Wigs are available for selection at The
Green House, 10460 Vista del Sol, Suite
101 and in limited supplies at our five
satellite locations.
• You can donate wigs for refurbishing. The
Foundation partners with area salons which
clean and style donated wigs, shave
patron's heads, and hold donated wigs for
pickup by The Green House staff.
• Susan G. Komen for the Cure - El Paso
Affiliate is a partner and helps fund the
Four Seasons Beauty Program.
http://www.komenelpaso.org/
Keep on Dancing Conference
It is such incredible news to hear that there
are now more than 13.7 million cancer
survivors in the United States and that
number is expected to grow to nearly 18
million by 2022.
• Many survivors live with cancer as a
chronic disease requiring periodic
treatments, while others may go into long-
term remission leading normal lives with
few side effects. As many survivors have
learned, however, recovery is not always
the end of the cancer experience. Even
several years after successful treatment,
cancer recurrence is always a possibility.
• There are still so many gaps and
unanswered questions about returning to a
healthy, active life after cancer, and we
hope this conference will supply you with
some of the best information to help you
make better informed decisions and reduce
your risk of secondary tumors and
recurrence.
As the name suggests, the KOD empowers
survivors, patients and their network with
tools of support for today and tomorrow.
Participants gain ideas to help raise
awareness of the unique issues exclusive to
cancer patients and to network with other
people who have been on similar journeys.
• This year’s program included sessions
designed to help patients fully live and love
life beyond cancer. We hope you will join
us next year and keep fighting, keep
positive and KEEP ON DANCING!
Our Programs (Continued From Previous Page)
The Green HouseThe J. Leighton Green, Jr. Cancer
Resource Center is affectionately named
for the El Paso attorney whose battle with
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) ended in
1998. While the name of the library "The
Green House" was intended in tribute to
Leighton Green, Jr. the name itself evokes
light, hope, help and healing.
The Green House provides cancer, health
and wellness information for patients,
caregivers and medical professionals in
various mediums – books, pamphlets,
audio and video offerings as well as a
stand-alone, bilingual touch screen
computer (Cancer HelpNet™) dedicated
exclusively to cancer related topics.
The Rio Grande Cancer Foundation is
pleased to offer this vital service – the only
dedicated health library in the region that is
free of charge and is located in five
satellite libraries within local treatment
centers.
In The
Know Magazine
In The Know Magazine, Understanding the
Cancer Experience is a free quarterly
magazine featuring stories about people in
our community and their experiences with
cancer as patients, friends, family members
or caregivers.
kknnoowwunderstanding the cancer experiencekknnoowwin t
he
Issue 14complimentary
magazine
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These book selectionsare available at The Green HouseResource Library
MAIN BRANCH
Del Sol Regional Oncology
Center
10460 Vista Del Sol, Suite 101
El Paso, Texas 79925
562-7660
WEST CENTRAL:
Las Palmas Medical Center
1801 N. Oregon
El Paso, Texas 79901
EAST:
Texas Oncology
El Paso Cancer Treatment
Center
7848 Gateway East
El Paso, Texas 79915
CENTRAL:
Texas Oncology
El Paso Cancer Treatment
Center
1901 Grandview
El Paso, Texas 79902
NORTHEAST:
William Beaumont Army Medical
Center
5005 N. Piedras St.
El Paso, Texas 79905
visit www.rgcf.org
in the greenhouse
Outlive Your Life: You Were Made to Make A
Difference By Max Lucado
May I share a story that is very dear to my heart?
It's a story of hillbillies and simple folk, net casters and tax
collectors. A story of a movement that exploded like a just-
opened fire hydrant out of Jerusalem and spilled into the
ends of the earth: into the streets of Paris, the districts of
Rome, and the ports of Athens, Istanbul, Shanghai, and
Buenos Aires. A story so mighty, controversial, head
spinning, and life changing that two millennia later we
wonder: Might it happen again?
Heaven knows we hope so. These are devastating times: 1.75 billions people are
desperately poor; one billion are hungry. Lonely hearts indwell our neighborhoods and
attend our schools. In the midst of it all, here we stand: you, me, and our one-of-a-
kind lives. We are given a choice ... an opportunity to make a big difference during a
difficult time. What if we did? What if we rocked the world with hope?
Worth a try, don't you think?
Living the Significant Life: 12 Principles for Making a
Difference By Peter L. Hirsch, Robert Shemin
Learn the secrets and steps to living a more meaningful life
Success is what happens to you; significance is what happens
through you. Do busy schedules at home and at work sometimes
leave you feeling overwhelmed and uninspired? Maybe you feel
stuck in a rut, going through a treadmill of the same routines or
bored at a job you don't love. If you want to get more out of life,
this book will show you how. The authors' approach has been
used successfully by many thousands of people—now you can
put it to work for yourself. You'll learn to focus on your passions, set and achieve
goals, and harness your full potential in order to live a life filled with meaning—your
best life
• Shows you how to nurture your passions, re-energize your life, and achieve your full
potential
• Includes dramatic stories of people who have discovered how to live a more
meaningful life
A Life That Matters: Five Steps to Making a Difference
By P. K. Hallinan
There comes a time in every person's life when they wonder: does
anything I do really matter? In this inspiring book,
bestselling author P.K. Hallinan shows readers how to answer that
question with a resounding yes! With encouraging stories from his
life and others, Hallinan lays out five immensely practical steps
readers can follow to achieve a more meaningful life: Work hard.
Go in the strength you have. Finish what you start. Be patient.
Help other people along the way.
what I know now
Patty TiscareñoAn Interview with Patty Tiscareño, Executive Director, Rio Grande Cancer
Foundation
Patty Tiscareño has served at the helm of the Rio Grande Cancer Foundation for
sixteen years, having seen the foundation grow into the leading community service
organization that it is today. Here are some of her reflections about where the
Foundation has come from and where it is headed in the future.
ITK: Talk a little about the early days of
RGCF
PT: The Foundation came into being on April
1, 1996 when the El Paso Cancer Treatment
Center sold to a for-profit entity. At the time,
I was the Director of Development for
EPCTC and the existing board appointed me
Director of the new foundation. For the first
two years of our existence, I was the sole
employee until 1998 when our staff grew by
100% with the addition of Jutta Ramirez. We
were housed at 4707 Montana on the second
floor of the RMPersonnel building during
that time and that was the first location of The
Green House.
ITK: How was the direction of the
Foundation decided?
PT: We have always been blessed with a
remarkable group of individuals who serve
on the board of directors and one of the first
agenda items was a focus study about
Foundation direction. The results of the
effort pointed us to the need for a central
source of cancer information, the need for
transportation, and more public awareness
about prevention and early detection. As a
result, we began work on many of the
programs we have in place today. PATS and
The Green House, among them. Setting up a
library required the addition of Izzy Mora as
our library coordinator in 2000. Presently,
our board is in the process of re-defining our
strategies for the next decade as the need for
cancer services morphs into survivorship and
life after cancer.
ITK: Some people might suggest the work
at the foundation is depressing. Describe a
typical week in the office of the Rio
Grande Cancer Foundation.
PT: In our present location at 10460 Vista del
Sol, we have 4.5 employees whose
responsibilities run the gamut of clerical and
accounting duties, library and Four Season
patron attention, arranging transportation for
travelers, maintaining the litany of
pamphlets, brochures, books, etc., in the
library, marketing and promoting our services
and spending time with cancer patients and
their families. Most of my duties are
relegated to board development and
maintenance, financial oversight of our
investment portfolio, budget oversight and
special projects.
Is the work depressing? Never. On the
contrary, it is often more uplifting than
anything else. Every individual with whom
we interact is supported, encouraged, and a
little less burdened in a difficult time because
of the Rio Grande Cancer Foundation. How
cool is that? And while there is sadness when
we learn about our friends or colleagues with
a cancer diagnosis, we get to spend quality
time and energy with people at a vital time in
their lives. That in itself is very rewarding.
ITK: Given that your daily activities are
consumed with ‘cancer’, what do you do to
reenergize?
PT: I find great solace in puttering around the
house. I love cooking for my family,
especially my two grandchildren who suffer
from bottomless pit syndrome, and pot
gardening around the yard. I am also really
lucky to work with my longtime friends “the
Cruisers – Andre, Doug, Buddy and Gary”
who add music and spice to my life.
ITK: In what direction do you see the Rio
Grande Cancer Foundation moving in the
years ahead?
PT: It is no secret that it is my goal that all
cancer patients in our El Paso community
have access to a one-stop location where they
can avail themselves of the ancillary and
support services they need to thrive beyond
their cancer diagnosis. More people are
living with rather than dying from cancer and
the needs of the survivors are specific, real
and necessary.
ITK: What lessons have you learned
during your time at the Rio Grande
Cancer Foundation?
PT: I have learned the importance of
organization and multi-tasking; you must
have these skills when you work in the non-
profit arena. We wear many, many hats. I’ve
learned that most people are talented and
passionate and giving and we should always
take advantage of their gifts. I’ve learned that
small can be effective and that indeed the
work of a small team can have a major
impact. I’ve learned humility and empathy
from the people whose lives have been
impacted but not destroyed by cancer. I’ve
learned that human beings are much stronger
than we think and that we should try to apply
that strength in everything we do. Most
importantly, I’ve learned that time passes
much too quickly, so I should make every
moment count!
“Each day offers us the gift of being a special
occasion if we can simply learn that as well
as giving, it is blessed to receive with grace
and a grateful heart”. – Sarah Breathwach
NON PROFIT ORG
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
EL PASO, TX
PERMIT N0 173
Rio Grande Cancer Foundation
10460 Vista del Sol Suite 101
El Paso, TX 79925
