Neighborly
8 Cancer Prevention Tips
Running a 5K in 2025? Programs & Support
Patient Spotlight
Seasonal Recipe
Get to Know Us
Our Mission
To Empower, Strengthen, and Sustain those impacted by cancer in our community through education, support and financial assistance. When neighbors are helping neighbors, no one has to face cancer alone.
Who we are
The Oregon Cancer Foundation is an independent nonprofit organization located in Eugene. Our staff and a team of dedicated volunteers work together to provide support to local patients and their families during and after treatment.
How we help
Our programs include financial & transportation assistance, a wig boutique, resource library and navigation, support groups, educational classes & conferences and more!
How we’re different
We are the only local organization providing this level of support to cancer patients in our community. We receive no state or federal funding and all money that we raise stays here in Lane County.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Haidy
Joy Pendowski
Jasmine Reiber
Tobey Ritchie
Kelli Warner
Meet Our Team
Amy Johnston, Executive Director
Amy has been with the Foundation since its early days in 2014, when it was a small organization with a big dream. She believes deeply in the power of community and has played a key role in shaping OCF into the thriving organization it is today. In her free time, Amy loves to travel, read, and spend time with her husband and their two (almost) grown children.
Andrew King, Program Coordinator
Andrew has worked as OCF’s Program Coordinator since 2017. As the organization’s second ever employee, he is immensely proud of the work OCF continues to do to provide a wide range of support services for cancer patients in our community. When not at work, Andrew is an avid birdwatcher, and enjoys exploring all Eugene has to offer with his wife.
Damon Garner, Development Coordinator
Having joined the foundation just months before the pandemic, Damon brings decades of retail and event management experience to his work at OCF. His expertise in creating strong relationships and driving successful operations has been instrumental in enhancing our fundraising efforts and expanding our reach. When not overseeing OCF events, Damon can be found cheering on the Ducks from the stands.
Cancer Prevention: 8 tips to reduce your risk
Andrew king
damon Garner
AMY Johnston
CoastBusters Walk 2023
Every step taken at My Breast Friends 5K and the CoastBusters Walk is a testament to resilience, community, and the power of giving back.
Founded by cancer survivors who turned their personal battles into a mission of hope, these two events embody the strength and solidarity of those affected by cancer. More than just races, they are celebrations of life and remembrance, bringing together survivors, fighters, and supporters to honor the journey of those impacted by cancer.
Both events proudly support the Oregon Cancer Foundation, ensuring that every dollar raised stays local to assist individuals navigating their own cancer diagnoses.
From financial assistance to vital support services, the funds provide direct relief to those in need right here in our community. These 5Ks are not just about crossing the finish line—they’re about making sure no one faces cancer alone. Will you join us?
A PASSION FOR SERVICE
In loving memory of Sonia Graham (April 15, 1967 – October 30, 2024), cofounder of the CoastBusters Walk, whose unwavering spirit and dedication have left an indelible mark on our community. Sonia’s passion for service and her commitment to supporting local cancer patients have inspired countless individuals.
Her legacy continues to shine brightly through the ongoing efforts of the CoastBusters Walk and the lives she touched. We honor her memory by carrying forward her mission to ensure that no one faces cancer alone.
From her husband Jim: “Sonia's advice to the living might be to enjoy every minute, work your bucket list now (later may be too late), and get your preventive health screenings; especially mammograms and breast selfexaminations for women.”
2025 EVENTS
MY BREAST FRIEND'S 5K
80 'S THEMED FUN RUN/WALK FOR BREAST CANCER
Eugene Sunday, June 8 Alton Baker Park
Registration now open! oregoncancerfoundation.org/events
COASTBUSTERS
WALK FOR BREAST CANCER 2025
Florence
Saturday, October 4 Siuslaw Middle School
Learn more and register at www.coastbusterswalk.org
Sonia Graham Co-Founder of Coastbusters
My Breast Friends 5K 2024 photo by MJ Photography
Events & Programs Calendar
All event dates are accurate at the time of this publication. All events are hosted at the Oregon Cancer Foundation office unless otherwise listed. For all events, visit www.oregoncancerfoundation.org/events to learn more or to register.
Creative Expression: Truth Cards with Sarah from Creative Makery
Now
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SURVIVORSHIP SERIES
“I finished treatment...now what?”
Our FREE seven-week survivorship series will provide the information and support you need to manage the challenges that arise after cancer treatment. Registration is required as seating is limited.
Over the course of 7 evening sessions, we will feature a variety of topics including:
• How to eat and exercise to help stay healthy and reduce risk of recurrence
• Anxiety, sadness, depression and other emotions
• Mindfulness, meditation and spirituality
• Cognitive and behavioral well-being strategies
• Relationships and how they are impacted by cancer
SERIES PRESENTERS
Presenters will be experts on the topics presented and may include local physicians, other medical staff, and other professionals from the community.
Wigs, Scarves, Hats, and More! NOW REGISTERING!
Oregon Cancer Foundation’s Believe Boutique carries complimentary wigs, hats, scarves, and other accessories for cancer patients undergoing treatment. A trained volunteer is available to assist with selection and styling. Fittings by appointment only.
Call (541) 632-3654 today to schedule your appointment!
WHAT
A seven-week series for cancer survivors exploring issues arising after treatment.
WHEN
Spring 2025 | Starting April 8th Tuesdays at 6:00 pm
LOCATION
Oregon Cancer Foundation Office 2296 Oakmont Way Eugene, OR 97401
Contact 541-632-3654 or classes@oregoncancerfoundation.org to register or learn more!
Support for every stage of their journey.
Volunteer or become a monthly donor and help us provide vital support to cancer patients in Lane County. Learn more by visiting OregonCancerFoundation.org today.
QUARTERLY SERIES
Programs & Support
For all events, visit www.oregoncancerfoundation.org/events to learn more or to register.
MONTHLY SUPPORT GROUPS
NEWCOMER ORIENTATION | BY APPOINTMENT
EDUCATIONAL CLASSES
Oregon Cancer Foundation offers an introduction to resources and services available to cancer patients in Lane County.
YOUNG WOMEN’S CANCER SURVIVOR GROUP
1st Wednesday of every month 6:30-8:00 pm
This group is an informal, peer-facilitated group for women ages 18-50 who are going through or have completed treatment.
BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (VIRTUAL)
2nd Wednesday of every month 6:00-7:30 pm
This group is for anyone diagnosed with breast cancer at any stage of their journey.
I FINISHED TREATMENT. NOW WHAT?
7-Week series on surviving cancer | Tuesdays @ 6:00 pm Starting on April 8th
When cancer treatment ends, a new chapter of life begins. Our seven-week Survivorship Series will provide the information and support you need to manage the challenges that arise after cancer treatment. Presenters will be experts on the topics presented and may include local physicians, other medical staff, and other professionals from the community.
WARRIOR WITHIN: MAKEUP APPLICATION CLASS
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm | Dates vary: February 20th, March 20th, April 17th
Join us for a free one-hour makeup application class that teaches you how to look and feel beautiful & confident. Local makeup artist and cancer survivor, Corina Tsuda, will share tips and tricks to help you find your new look, focusing on eyebrows and enhancing facial features. Please bring your favorite makeup products to class.
LUNCH & LEARNS
Palliative Care & Hospice | April 9th, 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Join the Oregon Cancer Foundation and Cascade Health for an informative presentation by Sarah Jane Petersen, LCSW, exploring the differences between palliative care and hospice, when and how to access these services, and their importance for individuals with long-term or life-limiting illnesses.
Clean Living with Katie Burke | April 22nd, 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Join us for a special Clean Living Lunch & Learn in honor of Earth Day! This engaging and informative session is led by Katie Burke, former OCF team member, patient navigator, and cancer survivor. After her diagnosis, she made meaningful changes to reduce the toxins in her home, diet, and daily routine. Now, she’s sharing what she’s learned to help others make simple, practical shifts toward a cleaner, healthier lifestyle.
PATIENT SPOTLIGHT
Each season, we highlight someone in our community who is an inspiration to those affected by cancer.
Corina T.
"Friends
and family...their words of affirmation and belief in me helped me pull through."
What gives you strength and hope?
My family calls it “stubbornness,” but I call it “belief and attitude.”
I was diagnosed about two weeks before lockdown, and a dear friend helped me see things from a different perspective. That shift in mindset set the tone for my attitude moving forward. My incredible team of doctors instilled in me the belief that I would be cured, and I’ve held onto that ever since.
There were moments when I had to dig deep for mental strength—like everyone else, I had very little in-person contact during that time, relying mostly on phone or video chats with friends and family. But their words of affirmation and belief in me helped pull me through.
Advice or wisdom for someone newly diagnosed?
Know yourself.
Before the pandemic, I was able to bring a close friend to my first appointment because I knew I’d be in shock and wouldn’t remember anything
That support was invaluable.
I also made a conscious decision to avoid the internet because I knew how easily I could spiral into fear and negativity. Instead, I trusted my doctors and leaned on the friends and family who could keep me uplifted and focused.
What message would you like to share with women in our community?
Be your own advocate.
You know your body better than anyone. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. And if you don’t feel heard, keep going until you find a doctor who will listen.
If the Oregon Cancer Foundation has been a part of your journey, what role has it played?
I regularly attend the monthly Breast Cancer Support Group and have attended the Breast Cancer Conference, National Cancer Survivors Day events, I was a Red Carpet Survivor in 2022, and I teach the monthly Warrior Within Makeup Application Classes.
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
Baking
Spending time with family
Felting
CANCER DIAGNOSIS
Breast Cancer
DIAGNOSED
March 2020
Scan to see Corina's felt creations
GREEK YOGURT
Fettucini Alfredo
SEASONAL RECIPE
INGREDIENTS
• 1 lb. whole-wheat fettuccine
• 1 1/2 cups whole-milk Greek yogurt*
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 Tbsp. garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. ground black pepper
• Fresh arugula, to garnish on top (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. Boil pasta in salted water for one minute less than package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain pasta.
2. In medium bowl, whisk together yogurt, Parmesan cheese, garlic and parsley. Slowly whisk in hot pasta water a little bit at a time. Add salt, pepper, and taste. Adjust seasoning with more Parmesan or salt, if needed.
3. Toss cooked, hot pasta in sauce. Serve immediately.