Just a few nights ago I was diligently downloading research information off the internet in order to prepare for the interview which would be the foundation for this article. I had hoped that it would enrich me with a true sense of purpose, and inspire me to a new level of creativity as I wrote. And it did! Within the mission statement of this vibrant and munificent club there resides a hopeful tone for all families “living with cancer.” It provides “social and emotional support as an integral part of cancer treatment. Its foresight was visionary and allows its membership to serve as a beacon for the provision of health care services dealing with the sudden reality of being diagnosed with cancer.” I was ready, well-prepared for the dialogue which would take place tomorrow. Or so I thought! For when I met the members of this prestigious and esteemed organization; the energy within this home and the vitality held within the spirit of its family members imparted a new fervor for life. There was an embodiment of soul that was self-sustaining and one which I had never experienced before. I was overcome with a sense of empowerment that imparted the vivaciousness of life’s purpose. That was; to enjoy the moments we have together. To support one another within a kinship enriched with caring and concern. It was on this day, at this moment, that I was blessed with having the honor, the pleasure of meeting the members of Gilda’s Club.
I had never expected to experience what occurred that day in Buffalo, New York as I entered through the rear entrance at 1140 Delaware Avenue. For that reason, I feel, that it can only be through the words of the members of Gilda’s Club that a true understanding of its mission and vision can accurately be understood. The purpose of this foundation, still in its infancy in our Western New York community, is guided by three core components. They are: support & networking groups, workshops & lectures, and social activities. But the accomplishments and the activities are guided by the fortitude of its membership. This article is an acknowledgment of just a few; and a testimonial for all those who continue to give and receive in a resilient and courageous spirit to one another. It is the story of a diverse family that procreates concord within an environment of peace. It is the story of Gilda’s progeny told in their own words. Listen!!!

Patricia Chip
“My name is Patricia Chip and I am still in treatment. I was diagnosed last September; ’I’ve known about Gilda’s for a long time, I had planned to become a volunteer just before I was diagnosed, so now I’m a member” I remember just barely being able to get up the stairs, I was so weak, and my husband asked why are you going there? And I said because I like it there! Her voice delivered her message with a commitment and conviction that was as pure as new fallen snow and as warm as the friendship that was instilled within this room, that day and probably every day.” Patricia continued telling me about the sense, the feeling when you are diagnosed, but she added this: “unless you have been diagnosed, until you have heard those words about you or your loved one, you can never know. Coming here, it’s a support group, they understand what you are talking about, they understand everything that you are going through and if they’re not going through it right now they have already gone through it.” When first diagnosed she said to herself;” I don’t want this, I don’t have time for this, I have too many plans”. Today Patricia is an active member of the wellness group. She is considering becoming a member of the Glee Club.“Some people think that once you get cancer, you shouldn’t talk about it. After you have accepted it, like for the first week or so, I couldn’t talk about it; once you have accepted it then you can talk about it to anybody”. The last thing that Patricia wanted to share is that “knowledge is power.“Once you have been diagnosed then you should look into everything, get a second opinion, learn as much as possible about your disease and about the treatment so you can give an honest assessment of what is going to happen to your body” She feels that her faith has also helped her become a survivor. God Bless!!

Patty Gelman
Patty began her talk with this statement:”Cancer made me better, cancer made me a better person, no question about it .Cancer gave me the opportunity to share my story and to help other people with life” Patty has written a book about her experience and challenges that faced her as a cancer survivor. Patty believes “that all people who have been touched by cancer need a support group at different stages throughout their treatment”. She places a positive value on her living with cancer. “Skies are bluer, children are cuter, grass is greener, life is better, chocolate tastes the best of all; with it on my mind it makes me appreciate everything wonderful. The more shared stories people hear, the more they know what’s out there and their fear, from the unknown is manageable.” Patty’s passion about Gilda’s Club is intense. “Membership is great, membership is free, look at this beautiful place. I thought a support group was a bunch of sad people sitting in a circle; so I joined Gilda’s thinking I was doing them a favor; instead I grew so much from the experience.”