In the Know Issue 24

know in the

understanding the cancer experience

Issue 24 complimentary magazine

Coming together The Rio Grande Cancer Foundation unites with community collaborators to provide help to cancer patients and organizations

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Gordon 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 DIRECTOR Patricia Tiscareño PROGRAM OFFICER Jutta Ramirez DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION Izzy Mora OFFICE MANAGER Cindi Martinez ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Maggie Rodriguez

this issue:

Sometimes when I have occasion to address a group, especially one of young people, I will ask them if they consider themselves to be ‘philanthropists’. Most of the time my query is met with confused silence, the audience considering themselves way out of league with Bill and Melinda Gates.

More often than not, the audience is pleased to learn that their contribution of $15 to participate in a walk or bowl-a-thon, or their purchase of Girl Scout cookies, or the weekly tithe to their church collection basket allots them the prestigious title of ‘philanthropist’.

Philanthropy has strong roots in America. The hardships of early settlers to North American, where government was weak and distant forced people to join together to govern themselves, to help each other and to undertake community activities, such as building schools and churches and fighting fires. Out of these experiences grew a tradition of citizen initiatives and individual efforts to promote the public welfare. Religious leaders encouraged their members to give to the poor and to the charitable works of their churches. Giving to needy people in their communities, to the poor in other lands, to the victims of natural disasters and to their churches was a strongly felt obligation for many people.

This 24th issue of In the Know: Understanding the Cancer Experience is dedicated to those people and organizations whose efforts on the behalf of reducing the burden of cancer in our community have been directed through the Rio Grande Cancer Foundation.

Through the creative fundraising efforts and collaborations of our partners, we are able to provide services and resources to hundreds of our fellow neighbors.

Often, there is a sense of uselessness when someone in our circle has a cancer diagnosis. We feel at a loss for offering anything other than encouragement or prayers (which are incredibly valuable), and uncertain about how to be of help. In addition to sharing with you some of the imaginative stories about our fundraising partners, we have included a tutorial on how to host your own cancer fundraiser.

Hope comes in unexpected ways and places. We are very grateful for all the friends, our board of directors and supporters who have helped us in 2012.

Through their efforts, the Rio Grande Cancer Foundation will provide in excess of $665,000 in grants, services and programs here locally in El Paso this year. We are proud to be the community’s resource for knowledge about living with and thriving beyond a cancer diagnosis and we are honored to have so many strong relationships which help make that possible. Thank you!

Sincerely, Patty Tiscareño

FEATURES

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in the

know

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is published by the

Rio Grande Cancer Foundation 10460 Vista del Sol, Suite 101 El Paso, TX 79925 (915) 562-7660 fax (915) 562-7841 www.rgcf.org by

Snappy Publishing Ted Escobedo, Publisher 240 Thunderbird • Suite C El Paso, Texas 79912 (915) 820-2800

Collaboration

It takes a village

Save the dates!

No man is an island and no organization operates in a vacuum.

Here we celebrate the terrific contributions our collaborators have made in helping enrich the lives of people with cancer.

Community organizations and concerned individuals have created some amazing events, celebrations and musical performances to help raise funds and spirits. Here we give them a standing ovation!

Start planning your year by resolving to attend or help one of the many cancer benefit events in our city.

DEPARTMENTS In The Green House

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What I Know Now

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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 the opinions 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.

Get ‘In The Know’ delivered to your in-box instead of your mailbox

Help RGCF save valuable time and resources 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!

To receive your free online subscription of ‘In the Know’ and help the Rio Grande Cancer Foundation simply submit your e-mail address to: imora@rgcf.org

Get ‘In The Know’ delivered to your in-box instead of your mailbox

Help RGCF save valuable time and resources 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!

To receive your free online subscription of ‘In the Know’ and help the Rio Grande Cancer Foundation simply submit your e-mail address to: imora@rgcf.org

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Celebrating our

Collaborators 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 Supplies 1840 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 Cosmetology 1580 George Dieter Dr., Ste. 207, 8574444, www.MilanInstitute.edu Regency Beauty Institute 1120 McRae Blvd., Bldg. D., El Paso, TX 79925, 595-5955, www.regencybeauty.com Tri-State Cosmetology 6800 Gateway East, Bldg. 4, El Paso, TX 79915, 778-1741, www.tristatecosemetology.com

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 District The 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, Barragans Our 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.

Montwood Church of Christ, Warm Babies Sewing & Knitting Group These very active sewing and knitting groups divide their

Jacqueline Cordova and Locks of Love The Rio Grande Cancer Foundation works closely with the Florida based non-profit, Locks of Love as the

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Riverside High School Cosmetology Class

intermediary between longhaired 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, Texas Through 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.

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it takes a village how everyday people can band together and do extraordinary things for our community by patty tiscareño

We 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.

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it takes a vision Women’s Council of Realtors and Bras for the Cause What happens when you pair a group of fastpaced, 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 rgcf@rgcf.org 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.

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s ’ e i m m u The D g n i t s o h r o guide f cer a Can r e s i a r d n u F

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.

11 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 costeffective 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-cancerpatients.html#ixzz29ZoSYQCH

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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!

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

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SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

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: Candlelighters of the El Paso Area Event: 2nd Annual Polo for Courage Match Date: October 5th Location Santa Maria Polo Club

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

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

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Keep on Dancing 2012 The 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

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mind, body, & soul

Mother’s Gifts How one single mother found the inspiration to celebrate her birthday by giving to others

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.

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“You give but little when you give of your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.”

– Kahlil Gibran, The Prophet

“If my hands are fully occupied in holding onto something, I can neither give nor receive.

- Dorothee Solle

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”

– Archbishop Desmond Tutu

“There never was a person who did anything worth doing, who did not receive more than he gave.”

– Henry Ward Beecher

“Giving connects two people, the giver and the receiver, and this connection gives birth to a new sense of belonging.”

– Deepak Chopra

“In helping others, we shall help ourselves, for whatever good we give out completes the circle and comes back to us.”

– Flora Edwards

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foundation at 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 nonprofits 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 Philosophy The 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.

2012 Grants Funded by RGCF Creative Kids, Inc. Be the Match Foundation Cancer and Chronic Disease Consortium Candlelighters of El Paso Children’s Grief Center of El Paso Hospice El Paso University Medical Center Foundation Visiting Nurse Association El Paso Baptist Clinic University Breast Care Center / TTUHSC Total Grants for 2012

Project Aim – Arts in Motion $ 10,000 Marrow Donor Program $ 10,000 Care for Cancer Wellness Program $ 25,000 Helping Hands Program $ 30,000 Grief Support for Children $ 5,000 Unfunded Oncology Care $ 10,000 Sobreviviendo El Cáncer/ $ 15,000 Surviving Cancer Comprehensive Cancer Care $ 15,000 Cancer Screenings for Women/ $ 30,000 Salary Support for Associate Director General Support $ 25,000 $175,000

Our Programs

George H. Ball Child Care The George Ball Childcare program provides short-term child care for patients or their caregivers during follow-up appointments 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 care facilities from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and after school until 6 p.m.

• This service is free to eligible participants through the generosity of the YWCA of El Paso.

• To sign up, please visit rgcf.org or contact Jutta Ramirez 915-562-7660, for referral to the program. Then contact the YWCA child care location of your choice to enroll your child(ren)

Know more>

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foundation at the

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

Our Programs (Continued From Previous Page)

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 longterm 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!

The Green House The 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.

know in the

understanding the cancer experience

Issue 14 complimentary magazine

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.

in the greenhouse visit www.rgcf.org These book selections are available at The Green House Resource 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

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 justopened 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-akind 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 Tiscareño An 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 nonprofit 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

Rio Grande Cancer Foundation 10460 Vista del Sol Suite 101 El Paso, TX 79925

NON PROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID EL PASO, TX PERMIT N0 173