August 2019 Nichols Hills Magazine

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American Cancer Society at the forefront The American Cancer Society has been attacking cancer for more than 100 years. They have often been at the forefront of cuttingedge research and life-saving treatment, yet many Oklahomans may be unaware of the many services provided locally.

The organization offers free transportation to cancer patients, making sure they get to their scheduled appointments. It provides free lodging for those patients who need a place to rest, it offers free

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wigs and so much more--all through state and local fundraising efforts.

“We have been involved in some aspect of nearly every cancer breakthrough over the past 100-plus years,” said Lesa Foster, ACSOK Executive Director. “Whether its cutting-edge research or one of the many programs we offer, the American Cancer Society attacks cancer from every angle right here in Oklahoma.”

WAYS TO HELP AND HAVE FUN

REAL MEN WEAR PINK Every year, an elite group of Oklahoma City men join the fight against breast cancer by pledging to wear pink every day throughout October. It can be a shirt, pocket square—even socks.

These ambassadors will create awareness about the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, and they will also raise a minimum of $2,500.

“When someone makes the comment about the pink, it is our opportunity to educate and spread the word of how every dollar helps,” said Randy Nance, Chair of this year’s RMWP campaign. “If we do not find a cure, many women and men we all know and love are subject to being stricken with this terrible disease.”

Nance says while the monetary goal is important, so is raising awareness and bringing more people into the mix.

“If volunteers can give of their time, talent and resources toward finding a cure, in my books that is just as much a win and a successful campaign,” he added.

Unfortunately, breast cancer runs in Nance’s family.

“My wife has lost one sister to breast cancer,

Real Men Wear Pink: Joseph Wright, Steve Lunsford, Chris Rickman, Victor Campos, Randy Nance, Dr. Mark Storey, Daniel Robinson, Joe Holcomb.

Photo courtesy Matt Payne Photography

and she has another sister who had a double mastectomy,” he said. “Most recently one of my wife’s first cousins has been stricken with breast cancer, so the gene is one that is prevalent in her family. I am greatly concerned about her health and would welcome the discovery of a cure sooner rather than later! Therefore, I am committed to helping and supporting ACS and RMWP by doing whatever I can, giving of my time as much as I can, and giving of my financial resources to help see the dream of finding a cure come true!”

MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER Saturday, Oct. 19 at 8 a.m., Wheeler District, 1701 S. Western Ave, Oklahoma City This non-competitive walk is dedicated to funding and fighting breast cancer for both men and women. A registration fee is not required; however, walkers are asked to sign up a team and fundraise a minimum of $100.

“Anytime you hear the word ‘cancer,’ you are surprised, scared and uncertain,” said Bob Mallam, a breast cancer survivor and one of this year’s Portraits of Hope.

“As a male, I had no clue what to expect since it is very rare in men,” he added. “I am grateful to the American Cancer Strides Walk ’18 at OKC’s Wheeler District.

Society of Oklahoma for all they are doing in cancer research and for standing beside me through this journey. Hope and determination played a part in my fight, and faith was my underlying strength.”

For additional information or to register, visit www.MakingStridesWalk.org/OKCOK ACSOK GOLF CLASSIC AT OAK TREE Monday, Oct. 21 at 10 a.m., Oak Tree Golf and Country Club, 700 West Country Club Dr, Edmond Sports enthusiasts can get involved in the fight against cancer by participating in the annual ACSOK Golf Classic at Oak Tree.

Sponsorship information is available, as well as information on early-bird team registration at www.ACSGolfClassicOKC.org or via email Rachel.Stratton@cancer.org CATTLE BARON’S BALL Friday, Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. Oklahoma City Farmer’s Public Market, 311 S. Klein Ave., Oklahoma City The Cattle Baron’s Ball is often billed as a “Party with a Purpose,” or perhaps “Red Tie Night Goes Western.”

The event features a variety of foods provided by local vendors, as well as a silent and live auction, and a great live band.

For additional information or to purchase tickets: www.cattlebaronsballokc.org

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COVER STORY

Groundbreaking on the new Hope Lodge near the Stephenson Cancer Society should occur sometime in 2020.

Hope Lodge is a home away from home for cancer patients When Jeannine Rainbolt was fighting her battle with lung cancer, she and her husband Gene made many trips to MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, and Boston’s DanaFarber Cancer Institute. It was a five-year journey of constant travel before Jeannine passed away in 2007.

During their trips to Houston and Boston, the Rainbolts knew Oklahoma needed a world-class cancer center. Gene got to work, and by 2011 the Stephenson Cancer Center opened to much fanfare. Just last

year it was named a National Cancer Institute designated cancer center.

But that still left the issue of lodging. Rainbolt began working with American Cancer Society of Oklahoma on a new “Hope Lodge” to be built near the Stephenson campus.

“I want all Oklahomans to have the same access to care that Jeannine had,” Rainbolt said.

“We now have Stephenson for treatment, but a lack of housing still exists for those who may not be able to afford extended stays.”

The Hope Lodge is a program offered by the American Cancer Society. Currently, a network of more than 30 Hope Lodge locations have been built throughout the nation.

Oklahoma’s facility will give hope to those who might otherwise give up, simply because they cannot afford the financial burden of traveling to Oklahoma City for treatment.

“Hope Lodge will be a home away from home for people living outside of the metropolitan area during cancer treatment, which can be months at a time,”

Rainbolt added. “This will ease their financial burden, so they can focus on what is important, and that is their recovery.”

Rainbolt and his co-chair, former Oklahoma State Treasurer Scott Meacham, have been working on the campaign for a couple of years. The Lodge will be built at NE 8 and Phillips, near the Stephenson Cancer Center campus. The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is leasing the land to ACS at $1 per year for 60 years.

See HOPE, Page 15

Hope Lodge Oklahoma will have 34 guest rooms, each with a private bathroom. Free, on-site parking will be available, as well as fully-equipped kitchens, laundry facilities and common guest lounges and dining room.

Transportation will also be provided to area treatment centers.

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August 4 Wight Lighters 7:30-9 p.m.

The 2019 Sunday Twilight Concert Series, presented by The Chickasaw Nation, continues with Wight Lighters! Join us at the Myriad Botanical Gardens Devon Lawn Stage for an evening of country music! Bring a blanket, picnic and the whole family! The Sunday Twilight Concert Series is FREE and open to the public. Please, no smoking and no pets, except for trained service animals.

Myriad Botanical Gardens Arts Council Oklahoma City August 8 Cookies & Cocktails 5:30-8 p.m.

Farmers Public Market Girl ScoutsWestern Oklahoma August 9 ‘Brenda Kingery: A Retrospective’ Opening reception 5-7 p.m.

Nona Jean Hulsey Gallery Oklahoma City University August 9

benefit the Boys and Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County.

National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Greater OKC Chamber August 16 2019 Festival of Hope The 18th annual Festival of Hope benefits HeartLine, a suicide-prevention organization, and will feature Shelby Rowe as guest speaker.

National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum HeartLine OK August 17 Dancing for a Miracle 6 p.m.

Embassy Suites Norman Children’s Hospital Foundation August 18 The Imaginaries 7:30-9 p.m.

The 2019 Sunday Twilight Concert Series continues with the Imaginaries! Join us at the Myriad Botanical Gardens Devon Lawn Stage for an evening of singer/songwriter music! Bring a blanket, picnic and the whole family! The Sunday Twilight Concert Series is FREE and

POP! Champagne and Spirit Tasting 6:30-9 p.m.

RAPP Foundation Conference Center St. Anthony Hospital Foundation August 11 Beau Jennings & the Tigers 7:30-9 p.m.

The 2019 Sunday Twilight Concert Series continues with Beau Jennings & the Tigers! Join us at the Myriad Botanical Gardens Devon Lawn Stage for an evening of Americana music! Bring a blanket, picnic and the whole family! The Sunday Twilight Concert Series is FREE and open to the public. Please, no smoking and no pets, except for trained service animals.

Myriad Botanical Gardens Arts Council Oklahoma City August 14 State of the Schools 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Learn about the progress of OKCPS’s Pathway to Greatness plan and implementation. This luncheon is a chance for education and state leaders to provide updates on efforts to prepare OKC’s future workforce.

Bring school supplies to the event to

open to the public. Please, no smoking and no pets, except for trained service animals.

Myriad Botanical Gardens Arts Council Oklahoma City August 22 Chamber Forum 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Join us for a monthly discussion from OKC thought leaders.

Individual tickets are $35 for Chamber members and $55 for nonmembers.

Vast, 333 W. Sheridan Ave. Greater OKC Chamber August 23 Wsky Q & Blues fundraiser 8 p.m.

The Fourth Annual Wsky Q & Blues fundraiser supports the Classen School of Advanced Studies.

Dunlap Codding Classen School of Advanced Studies August 24 ‘The Capitol Steps’ 8 p.m.

Enjoy this evening of political satire as a troupe of Congressional staffersturned-comedians travel the U.S. satirizing the very people and places that once employed them. They’ve been featured on NBC, CBS, ABC,

PBS and have performed for five presidents. They bill themselves as equal opportunity offenders.

Oklahoma City Community College OCCC Cultural Arts Series August 25 Oklahoma Virtuosi 7:30-9 p.m.

The 2019 Sunday Twilight Concert Series continues with Oklahoma Virtuosi! Join us at the Myriad Botanical Gardens Devon Lawn Stage for an evening of modern symphony! Bring a blanket, picnic and the whole family! The Sunday Twilight Concert Series is FREE and open to the public. Please, no smoking and no pets, except for trained service animals.

Myriad Botanical Gardens Arts Council Oklahoma City August 27 Sunset Reception 4 p.m.-6 p.m.

Make business connections with other Chamber members at OKC Outlets. Free admission includes one drink ticket and complimentary hors d’oeuvres.

Greater OKC Chamber

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September 4-22 Frost/Nixon Starring Oklahoma favorites Matthew Alvin Brown and D. Lance Marsh, this timely, dramatic look at the Nixon Presidency post-Watergate television interviews will leave you on the edge of your seat even though you know the ending.

Lyric Plaza Theatre Lyric Theatre September 6 Renaissance Ball 7 p.m.-midnight Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club Oklahoma City Museum of Art September 6-15 ‘Every Brilliant Thing’ In this acclaimed show, a young person attempts to cure their mother’s depression by creating a list of the best things in the world. The list grows as they progress from childhood and adolescence to college and marriage, but when life deals a bitter blow, the list proves to be helpful to them in ways that it couldn’t be for their mother.

Civic Center CitySpace Theatre Oklahoma City Repertory Theatre September 7 Septemberfest 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Oklahoma History Center September 12 The Four Italian Tenors 7:30 p.m.

The performance will include the greatest tenor arias and songs of all time, in unique arrangements created particularly for this U.S. debut tour. Hear this new generation of world class tenors explore and present these beloved classics with panache, verve and vivacity, all in their own inimitable style.

Armstrong Auditorium Armstrong Auditorium Performing Arts Series September 12-22 Oklahoma State Fair State Fair Park September 14 Classics – ‘Oklahoma Stories’ 8 p.m.

Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic September 18 Chamber Forum 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Join us for a monthly discussion from --

OKC thought leaders. Individual tickets are $35 for Chamber members and $55 for nonmembers.

Vast, 333 W. Sheridan Ave. Greater OKC Chamber September 18 Help Kids Play Luncheon Noon-1 p.m.

Skirvin Grand Ballroom Cleats for Kids September 19 The 3 Redneck Tenors 7:30 p.m.

This comedic adventure, written by operaveteran Matthew Lord with music arranged by award-winning composer Craig Bohmler, has been said to be the closest you’ll ever come to seeing “Duck Dynasty” perform at Carnegie Hall. As seen on “America’s Got Talent.”

OCCC Performing Arts Series September 19 Maestro’s Ball Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club Oklahoma City Orchestra League September 21 Walk for Wishes The 9th annual Walk for Wishes, benefitting Make-A-Wish Oklahoma, celebrates the more than 3,000 wishes that have already been granted to Oklahoma children, while raising funds for future wishes.

Myriad Botanical Gardens Make A Wish September 23 Metro 50 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Metro 50 is an annual dinner and awards program honoring the region’s most dynamic companies making significant contributions to the strength of the economy.

National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Greater OKC Chamber September 24-29 ‘Fiddler on the Roof ’ Tony Award-winning director Bartlett Sher brings a fresh and authentic vision to this beloved theatrical masterpiece. Featuring a talented cast, lavish orchestra and stunning movement and dance, “Fiddler on the Roof ” will introduce a new generation to the uplifting celebration that raises its cup to joy! To love! To Life!

Civic Center Music Hall OKC Broadway

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October 4 Enlighten Noon-1 p.m.

Enlighten is a lunch and learn event from the Business University suite of programming that provides small business networking and education resources exclusively to Chamber member businesses. Chamber member tickets are $25. Seating is very limited.

Walker Terrace Greater OKC Chamber October 4-5 Traditional Cowboy Arts Exhibition and Sale The Traditional Cowboy Arts Association will showcase the best of saddlemaking, bit and spur making, silversmithing and rawhide braiding.

National Cowboy andWestern Heritage Museum October 5 Classics – ‘The Voyage’ featuring Debussy’s ‘La Mer’ 8 p.m.

Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic October 9-November 2 ‘The Rocky Horror Show’ Lyric Plaza Theatre Lyric Theatre

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October 10 Michael McHale 7:30 p.m.

Belfast-born Michael McHale has established himself as one of Ireland’s leading pianists.

He has developed an international career as a solo recitalist, concerto soloist and chamber musician.

Oklahoma City Community College OCCC Cultural Arts Series October 15 Pablo Sáinz Villegas 7:30 p.m.

Pablo Sáinz Villegas is an acclaimed classical guitarist who made his debut with the New York Philharmonic, which launched his career with orchestras such as the Philharmonic of Israel, the Orquesta de Radio Televisión Española, the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the National Orchestra of Spain.

Oklahoma City Community College OCCC Cultural Arts Series October 15-20 ‘Hello, Dolly!’

Winner of four Tony Awards, “Hello, Dolly!” is the universally acclaimed smash that NPR calls “the best show of the year!”

Civic Center Music Hall OKC Broadway

October 16 Chamber Forum 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Join us for a monthly discussion from OKC thought leaders. Individual tickets are $35 for Chamber members and $55 for nonmembers.

Vast, 333 W. Sheridan Ave. Greater OKC Chamber October 17 OneVoice Luncheon 11:30 a.m.

Oklahoma Women’s Coalition supporters from across the state gather to celebrate the successes and advancements made for Oklahoma women and girls over the past year. There is no charge for the luncheon, but guests are encouraged to financially support the mission.

Embassy Suites Downtown Oklahoma Women’s Coalition October 18 Bingo for Babies 7 p.m. – midnight The sixth annual Bingo for Babies fundraiser will feature dinner, drinks, entertainment, a silent auction, bingo games and dancing the night away.

Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club Infant Crisis Services October 25-26 ‘Bandstand’ 8 p.m.

Travel back in time to 1945 as the big band

sounds of swing, bebop and the jitterbug fill the national airwaves. Join Private First Class Donny Novitski, a singer/songwriter at heart, as he creates a band composed entirely of fellow veterans.

Oklahoma City Community College OCCC Performing Arts Series October 25-27 Michael Pink’s ‘Dracula’ This internationally renowned retelling of Bram Stoker’s 1897 horror classic has been performed around the world. Philip Feeney’s chilling original score and David Grill’s piercing lighting make this production a superbly rich, cinematic experience. Don’t miss this breathtaking story of passion, seduction, transformation and sacrifice this Halloween.

Civic Center Music Hall OKC Ballet October 26 Miles for Miracles OU Health Sciences Center OKC Children’s Hospital Foundation October 26 Lace for Mask Gala The evening will feature custom cocktails, dancing, live entertainment, silent and live auctions, dinner, and so much more. You can dress to impress at this fundraiser with a contemporary flare with your favorite masquerade mask!

Kalidy Kia, 14205 Broadway Extension Oklahoma Lawyers for Children

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November 1 Light the Legacy – Saints Ball 2019 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum St. Anthony Foundation November 2 Starlight Ball Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club Children’s Hospital Foundation November 2 Classics - ‘Italian Gems’ 8 p.m.

Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic November 8-9 Pops - Megan Hilty Live!

Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic November 8-17 ‘A Doll’s House, Part 2’ ‘A Doll’s House, Part 2’ flashes forward 15 years from Henrik Ibsen’s 1879 portrait of marriage as a women’s prison, and my how things have—and haven’t—changed.

Civic Center CitySpace Theatre Oklahoma City Repertory Theatre November 12 State of the Economy 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Hear directly from an expert panel of local economists on regional economy trends. Guests will also hear from a keynote speaker who will provide insight into our nation’s economic future.

National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Greater OKC Chamber

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November 12 Daniel Hope, violin With Zurich Chamber Orchestra 7:30 p.m.

Music director of the progressive Zurich Chamber Orchestra, Daniel Hope conducts from the violin and leads the ensemble in an unusual pairing of Antonio Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons” with famed film composer Max Richter’s “Vivaldi Recomposed.” This exciting reimagining of the Baroque classic, recorded by Hope and the ZCO, has become one of the most successful classical recordings in recent times.

Armstrong Auditorium Armstrong Auditorium Performing Arts Series November 12-17 ‘The Spongebob Musical’ A legendary roster of Grammy Award Winners. A visionary director and a Tony Award-winning design team. One of the world’s most beloved characters. Turn them loose onstage and what do you get?

The bold, original musical where the power of optimism really can save the world.

Civic Center Music Hall OKC Broadway November 14 Black Violin 7:30 p.m.

Leave your preconceived notions of what a violin concert should be at the door. Wil B. (viola) and Kev Marcus (violin) are touring the U.S. with their unique blend of classical and hip-hop music designed to overcome stereotypes and cultural barriers.

Oklahoma City Community College OCCC Performing Arts Series

The Oklahoma Hall of Fame Class of 2019, from left: Allen Wright for the family of Chief Allen Wright/Kiliahote, Steve Largent, J.C. Watts, Jr., John Herrington, Gray Frederickson, Tricia Everest, John Nickel and James Day.

November 18 35th Annual Wall of Fame Humanitarian Awards Dinner The Foundation for Oklahoma City Public Schools will induct new members into the Wall of Fame on Nov. 18. The 2019 class will join 84 other alumni who have been inducted since the Wall of Fame was created in 1985.

Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City Public Schools November 21 2019 Hall of Fame Induction

Ceremony Being inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame is Oklahoma’s highest honor. Since the Oklahoma Hall of Fame’s inception in 1927, 698 accomplished individuals have received this commendation.

Cox Convention Center Oklahoma Hall of Fame November 26 Manheim Steamroller Christmas 7:30 p.m.

Civic Center Music Hall OKC Broadway

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Downtown in December Downtown in December is a series of holiday events and attractions in the heart of Oklahoma City. It’s a one-of-a-kind winter experience that features thrilling outdoor ice skating, a tree lighting festival, visits with Santa Claus, a festive holiday run, free water taxi excursions, performing arts, shopping and parties—all sur-

December 5-7 Pops - ‘The Christmas Show’ Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic December 6 Enlighten noon-1p.m.

Enlighten is a lunch and learn event from the Business University suite of programming that provides small business networking and education resources exclusively to Chamber member businesses.

Chamber member tickets are $25. Seating is very limited.

Walker Terrace Greater OKC Chamber December 14-22 ‘The Nutcracker’ Celebrate the season with Oklahoma City’s favorite holiday production, “The Nutcracker.” Tchaikovsky’s familiar score, performed by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, and artistic director Robert Mills’ delightful staging create a warm glow as Clara and the Nutcracker Prince return to delight the young and the young at heart. This is an experience your whole family will remember for years to come.

Presented by Devon Energy.

Civic Center Music Hall OKC Ballet

“The Nutcracker” returns to the Civic Center Music Hall, December 14-22.

rounded by twinkling holiday lights. Most events are free of charge, and there is an open invitation for all to attend.

December 3 Lomazov/Rackers Piano Duo ‘Variations on 176 Keys’ 7:30 p.m.

Armstrong Auditorium Armstrong Auditorium Performing Arts Series

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December 17 ‘Windham Hill’s Winter Solstice’ 7:30 p.m.

This unique experience ushers in this year’s winter solstice and celebrates the traditions of the world. The evening will feature Grammy-winning guitarist Will Ackerman and Grammy-nominated Barbara Higbie.

Oklahoma City Community College OCCC Performing Arts Series December 31 Opening Night 2019 Downtown Oklahoma City Arts Council Oklahoma City artscouncilokc.com

January 11 Classics – ‘Minimalism in a New World’ featuring violinist Jennifer Koh 8 p.m.

Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic January 16 David B. Hooten, trumpeter ‘The Legends of Dixieland’ 7:30 p.m.

Multi-Grammy and Emmy Award nominee David B. Hooten has perfected his “Legends of Dixieland” show by performing onstage with jazz greats. The uplifting show depicts a traditional New Orleans funeral and features memorable hits such as “St. Louis Blues,” “When the Saints Go Marchin’” and more.

Armstrong Auditorium Armstrong Auditorium Performing Arts Series January 17 Mercy Gala National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Mercy Health Foundation January 21 Farewell Angelina 7:30 p.m.

This country group, composed of four talented women, takes its name from a haunting Bob Dylan song. They will win you over with their powerhouse vocals, blazing double violins, guitars and songwriting.

Oklahoma City Community College OCCC Performing Arts Series January 24-25 Pops – ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ Civic Center Music Hall OKC Philharmonic

The music of “Raiders of the Lost Ark” is coming to the Civic Center Music Hall, January 24-25.

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A survivor: Tiffany’s story

By Mark Beutler When Tiffany Sullivan was 25, she went to her dentist for a routine cleaning and checkup. But what he found surprised her.

“My dentist found a small spot on the underneath side of my tongue,” she said. “He thought it looked suspicious, so he referred me to an oral surgeon. The next day they removed the lesion and found it was squamous cell carcinoma. I had no symptoms and was very grateful my dentist found it.”

Fast forward to age 50, and that’s when Tiffany began noticing swelling, soreness and a bit of pain in her tongue. It got progressively worse, she says, and started affecting her ability to speak clearly.

“Three biopsies and two sets of CT scans confirmed my diagnosis,” she said. “I underwent three rounds of intense chemotherapy, followed by surgery. My entire tongue was removed at the junction where it goes into the throat.”

“The floor of my mouth was also surgically removed, and I had a radical neck dissection in which 53 lymph nodes were removed to see if the cancer had spread. My tongue and the floor of my mouth were reconstructed with parts of my quad muscle from both legs.”

Speech therapy followed, which began

HOPE From Page 4 “This is going to solve a big problem for people in allowing them to get the care they need,” Meacham said. “Whether they’re coming from rural Oklahoma, or from Tulsa--anywhere in the state-if they don’t have the funds for extended stays, they can rest assured knowing Hope Lodge will be there for them.”

Statistics from the American Cancer Society show more than 18,000 Oklahomans are diagnosed with cancer every year. And 3,700 cancer patients will travel 40 miles or more for treatment in Oklahoma City.

with learning how to swallow liquids and then soft food. It was a process that took more than a month, and after that she began learning how to talk again.

“I was at MD Anderson in Houston for three months of rehabilitation,” Tiffany says.

“I have been cancer-free for a long time, but recently I had a scan showing two areas that may be cancerous. I will find out soon if a biopsy is needed. If I remain cancer-free, on Thanksgiving I will celebrate my five-year anniversary!”

Having a resource like the American Cancer Society of Oklahoma is vital, she says.

“ACS has so many resources for patients going through their cancer journey, and for survivors too,” Tiffany said. “In fact, I just joined the Cancer Survivor Network. It’s so important to have someone on your side, and that’s what ACS does, they will walk with you every step of the way.”

Staying positive and believing in yourself is half the battle, she adds, and surviving cancer allows you to put things in perspective.

“I am more grounded and thankful as a result of having survived cancer,” she says. “I worked really hard to get to where I am today. I am grateful for every day, even with my speech impediment and scars — small prices to pay for being alive!”

“Unfortunately, cancer is an all-too familiar word,” Meacham said. “We have lost quite a few family members to cancer. My wife’s sister passed away, and she was one of those who fell in that category of someone who lived in rural Oklahoma and really didn’t have access to care. So, it’s made me be very passionate about the quality of care for all Oklahomans. Everybody should have the same access to care.

When you’re sick, you need to be able to get the best care available.”

Hope Lodge Oklahoma will have 34 guest rooms, each with a private bathroom. Free, on-site parking will be available, as well as fully-equipped kitchens, laundry facilities and common guest lounges and dining room.

TIFFANY SULLIVAN

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @ACSOklahoma

Transportation will also be provided to area treatment centers.

The campaign is in the latter stages of fundraising. Currently, $12.1 million has been raised, with a goal of $16.5 million. That will pay for construction of the Lodge and the first three years of operation. After that, ACS will take over funding.

“Right now, we have a gap,” Meacham said. “We have raised quite a bit of money, and we are about three-quarters of the way there. We need to raise the last little bit of money to get us over the hump, so we can actually make this site a reality.”

Groundbreaking should occur sometime in 2020, according to ACSOK Campaign Director Brian Brookey.

“Hope Lodge Oklahoma will be the only free lodging program available for adult cancer patients and their caregivers,” Brookey said. “If they must leave home for treatment, this facility will provide them with the best possible care. Currently we are looking for a donor who may want to have their name on the facility, or who may want to name a room.

Several funding options are available. With strong community support already in place, we can create a lifesaving legacy in our community.”

For additional information on Hope Lodge Oklahoma or to contribute support, contact Brian Brookey at 918.809.9708 or via email at Brian.Brookey@cancer.org.

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