News release from Parkview Health:
Parkview presents Cancer Care Awards
(August 31, 2011) — Parkview’s Comprehensive Cancer Center today presented the third-annual Cancer Care Awards to honor the dedication, determination, innovation, sacrifices, and courage of those whose efforts improve the quality of life for people who have cancer.
Cancer Care Award winners:
Beth Goldsmith
In the fight against breast cancer, Beth is described as a true warrior for the cause and an inspiration to many. With her sister’s diagnosis in 1997, Beth became an advocate for the importance of breast cancer education and research. Through her real estate business, she has donated more than $100,000 for breast cancer research at the Indiana University School of Medicine. As an advocate and patient herself, Beth joins her mother and aunt as breast cancer survivors. She continues to be involved in a multitude of activities to honor her sister and grandmother, who lost their cancer battles. A committed athlete, Beth participates in marathons, triathlons and cycling events – not to mention dozens of fundraising events each year – to continue to raise money in hopes that breast cancer will soon be cured.
Debbie A. Johnston Foundation
The Debbie A. Johnston Foundation focuses on ovarian cancer research, early detection, education and awareness. It also aims to improve life for women who are living with this daunting disease. Two new programs are making a remarkable difference: Live Your Dream helps ovarian cancer patients realize lifelong dreams, and The Volunteer Network places volunteers in their homes to provide basic services – such as cooking, cleaning, laundry and lawn care – that help with daily routines and home upkeep. Started by a loving daughter in honor of her irrepressible mother, this foundation is bringing hope and a “live each day to the fullest” perspective to women on their cancer journey.
The winners received original artwork – a decorative woven wall cloth – donated by northeast Indiana weaver and Parkview Huntington Hospital lab scientist Peggy Siders. Photos of the winners will be displayed at the cancer center for a year and then mounted in a special scrapbook in the facility’s Cancer Resource Library.
The awards were presented by Rae Gonterman, RN, MSN, NE-BC, senior vice president, Parkview Health Cancer Service Line.