Cancer Center > CONNECT > Joe's Story

Joe's story

CONNECT was conceptualized by Joe – the husband of a former patient at Frauenshuh Cancer Center

	Joe and Leslie's tree

“Nearly every day we hear of something related to cancer: ways to reduce risks, medical advances, someone diagnosed, a survivor’s story and, too often, a death from cancer. It is awful that it impacts so very many people.

My family and friends were directly impacted. Just 16 months after being diagnosed with breast cancer, my wife, Leslie, passed away in September 2007. 

During the summer of 2007, my wife and I agreed to make a series of donations to make a difference while we were alive. We drafted a list of possibilities, but just didn’t get around to immediately making the gifts. Fulfilling this pledge became very important to me after her death.

Frauenshuh Cancer Center is where Leslie was treated for her breast cancer, and it was one of the places on our 'list.' As I worked with the cancer center on how to best use this donation, it became clear the gift should spearhead an electronic social network for patients, families and friends. We imagined the difference it could make, and the cancer center’s patient advisory board affirmed our thoughts that it could really make a difference.

During 2008, I volunteered a significant portion of my time to help start this initiative. I cannot begin to describe the value I have received back from these efforts.”

Read other stories from Tonni-Sue and Debi, or learn more about CONNECT.