Riverside, CA
lhyman@imermanangels.org
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Location: Riverside, Ca
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? I grew up in southern California … more specifically the west side of Los Angeles. My family has spent time in both Madison, Wisconsin and Ithaca, New York; however, my professional connections are not strong and really would not assist with IA.
What groups or associations do you have or belong to? N/A
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? University of California, San Diego and University of California, Riverside for advance degree. Unfortunately, not particularly well connected!
What do you do for work? I am retired! For the 20 years leading up to retirement I was a math teacher, math coach and Assistant Principal at a Middle School. Prior to that I worked in the business world in Data Systems and Information Technology.
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? I am hoping that my ability to relate with people and my positive outlook on life will help me as an IA ambassador.
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? I am a cancer survivor. It was been three years since my diagnosis and during this time I have learned to manage the cancer and to live an extremely productive life. Together with my husband, who is a biology professor; we have become extremely educated in breast cancer and other forms of cancer and realize that research has provided new and exciting avenues of treatment. My father died of lung cancer over 15 years ago when there were not a lot of treatment options.
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? Kaiser Permenante in Riverside and Moreno Valley
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? Nothing really. However, I have do provide for friends of friends who are living with cancer. I am a mentor for IA.
What do you enjoy doing, what are you passionate about when not working or involved with cancer support? My husband and I love to watch college football and basketball. We are avid UCLA fans with season tickets to football games. Part of my weekly routine is two days a week with my personal trainer and twice a week to a yoga class. In addition I work supervising student teachers and volunteer at our Congregation. Spending time with friends and family is important. Oh yes … and playing bridge.
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San Francisco, CA
ekaye@imermanangels.org
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Location: San Francisco, CA
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? I grew up in the suburbs of Detroit, moved to Chicago for 14 years and then moved to SF.
What groups or associations do you have or belong to? I belong to a variety of organizations for my consulting business and lobby for a few personal causes.
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? Michigan State and yes
What do you do for work? Aha Product Solutions as a product development consultant.
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? I am a very social person who is always networking
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? Fortunately, I personally have not had cancer but it’s throughout my family and friends
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? N/A
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? I have been a volunteer and on different boards for Imerman Angels for 10 years now!
What do you enjoy doing, what are you passionate about when not working or involved with cancer support? I hike, teach and do yoga, and love spreading the word helping others connect.
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Denver, CO
kcavanaugh@imermanangels.org
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Location: Denver, CO
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? I grew up in Peoria, Arizona. Lived in the area until I moved to Tucson for college. I completed my master’s degree back east in Connecticut and then returned to Tucson to work for 3 years. Moved to Colorado for work 1.5 years ago. I am connected professionally to community therapists (occupational therapy, speech therapy and physical therapy).
What groups or associations do you have or belong to? For my career, I am a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association. From a personal standpoint, I am a volunteer for Epic Experience, an organization that provides week long adventure camps for cancer survivors over 18. I am actively involved with Stupid Cancer and the young adult cancer community. I have also participated in First Descents and am actively involved with this community as well.
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? I attended the University of Arizona for undergrad and Sacred Heart University for graduate studies. I am not actively involved with the alumni association at either of these schools.
What do you do for work? I am a pediatric occupational therapist. I work at the Children’s Hospital Colorado and recently started my own private practice within the Denver Metro Area.
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? I am very outgoing and a people person. I work within the medical community so I can connect on that basis, in addition to being able to connect as a cancer survivor myself. I have many connections within the young adult cancer community.
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? I am a cancer survivor. I was diagnosed with Malignant Melanoma in 2009 at the age of 21. I was just starting graduate school and had no connections to anyone my age who had experienced cancer themselves. I had surgery to remove the melanoma and then was sent on my way without any resources or information about support provided, just to return for my regular follow ups. I felt very alone and wished that someone was there who understood what I was going through. Two years after diagnosis I finally found a young adult cancer support group which changed my life. These were all individuals my own age who really understood what I had been through and all of the physical and emotional challenges that went along with that. This group got me connected with more individuals and organizations that support young adult cancer survivors. Having these types of connections really helped me to heal and be able to finally deal with my cancer diagnosis.
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? I was initially treated at Yale University. Have also been treated at the University of Arizona Cancer Center and Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale. Currently being treated at the University of Colorado Cancer Center. I really am only connected with the University of Colorado Cancer Center at this time.
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? I have been a volunteer within the non-profit world. Volunteered with the organization Nourish in Arizona. Help with organizing their yearly fundraiser. I have also volunteered frequently with Epic Experience. I have help with camps, as well as with organization of some of their fundraising events.
What do you enjoy doing, what are you passionate about when not working or involved with cancer support? I am a very active individual and love being outside exploring the world. I enjoy walking the dog, hiking, biking, snowboarding, snowmobiling, white water kayaking and stand up paddle boarding. I have a 3-year-old terrier, Clementine, who is like my child. We love to go on walks or go hiking in the beautiful Colorado mountains. She is an awesome travel buddy as well. My family and friends are also very important to me and I try to spend as much time as possible with them.
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Lake Worth, FL
echerrington@imermanangels.org
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Location: Lake Worth, Florida. 40 miles north of Miami
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? I am a TRUE Florida Native. I lived in the Panhandle of Florida for the first 25 years of my life. A very small town named Malone, Florida. It is 2 miles from Alabama and 5 miles to Georgia, also known as the Wiregrass Area. I moved to South Florida when my husband attended Palm Beach Atlantic University and we have lived in Palm Beach County since.
What groups or associations do you have or belong to? N/A
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? I attended Chipola College during my undergrad and then transferred to Troy State University Dothan Campus. I earned a BS in Psychology and BS in Criminal Justice. I later went back to Chipola College and earned an AS in Nursing.
What do you do for work? I worked as a RN for 10+ years, (started in nursing homes, ICU , but mostly in ER). I have been a Stay At Home Mom for the last 5 years. I have a 7-year old son and a 5-year old daughter.
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? N/A
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? I lost my Aunt (dad’s sister) to brain cancer in 1994 (37 years old) and my Father to GBM brain cancer in 2011 (57 years old). I was my father’s caregiver during his yearlong battle.
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? N/A
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? I have coordinated fundraisers for JDRF – Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and ABC2 – Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure. I have hosted 4 scavenger hunt events.
What do you enjoy doing, what are you passionate about when not working or involved with cancer support? I love running. I have completed 8 marathons, with number 9 being the 2016 Chicago Marathon with Team IA. I also love the beach and camping, especially camping on the beach!!!
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Tampa Bay Area, FL
nloughery@imermanangels.org
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Location: Tampa Bay Area, Florida
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? I grew up in South Bend, Indiana. My family moved to Indianapolis when I was 15. I spent my 20s in New Jersey and Florida. In 1990, my husband was transferred to the Philadelphia area – every winter we regretted that transfer! I moved back to Florida in 2012. My “career” was raising a family, so my connections are mainly personal.
What groups or associations do you have or belong to?
-Florida State Animal Response Coalition (FL SARC) – we care for animals during emergency situations
-Action to Cure Kidney Cancer (ACKC) – lobbying congress for cancer research funding
-Pinellas County Volunteer Services – I’m an Adoption Facilitator at Pinellas County Animal Services
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? I went to Valparaiso University and am not at all connected.
What do you do for work? I recently changed jobs and work for 24-7InTouch as a Trip Experience Agent for our biggest client, Airbnb.
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? I have a lot of experience organizing events and fundraisers – while raising a family, I served on the boards of multiple organizations – Home and School, Music Parents, Marching Band Parents, and two different township athletic organizations. I’ve done some public speaking and have lobbied congress for ACKC. I currently train volunteers for Pinellas County Animal Services and I provide floor support for new employees at Airbnb, so I have some training skills.
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? I am a survivor (2016 marks my 14th year as a kidney cancer survivor) and have also been a caregiver. Every female on my father’s side of the family for several generations, barring my sister and myself, has died of breast cancer or complications from the treatment of breast cancer. My mother is a breast cancer survivor, and I was her primary caregiver during her treatment. During the 22 years I lived in the Philadelphia area, I lost more friends and students to cancer than I can count, and sadly that is not an exaggeration.
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? I was treated at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, and I am still connected to a few staff members. My son is a medical physics resident at Karmanos Cancer Institute (Wayne State in Detroit, MI.)
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? I have been a Mentor Angel for IA since 2010. I currently volunteer with FL SARC (animal care and rescue in emergency situations), and I am at Pinellas County Animal Services walking shelter dogs every weekend. In the past, I ran a booth and helped to coordinate drum circles for drumSTRONG:DrumForCures at the Chicago Drum Show for two years – but I haven’t been able to get back up there since my move to Florida. In Pennsylvania I volunteered at Chandler Hall Hospice, and I worked for Bucks County Transport, a non-profit that provides transportation for the elderly and developmentally disabled community. I also spent a year working for the Humane Society of Pinellas.
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Chicago, IL
eolson@imermanangels.org
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Location: Chicago, Illinois
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? Born in Chicago and raised 90 miles away in Southwest Michigan, Berrien Springs Michigan. My professional connections are strong in the Chicagoland area. I have connections in LA, SW Michigan,
What groups or associations do you have or belong to?
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? Olivet College and Western Michigan University. Not well connected with alumni groups
What do you do for work? I own a restaurant & bar in Chicago
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? I have deep connections within the bar and restaurant industry which can be a great help with fundraising
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? I was diagnosed with cancer at age 24 with testicular cancer, after receiving chemotherapy I was diagnosed with sarcoma cancer in my lungs and stomach. After more chemotherapy, radiation and five surgeries which included the removal of my right lung I was cancer free 3 years later.
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? Michael Reese hospital in Chicago which is no longer operating. I am currently working on reestablishing a connection with my oncology doctor who is now at University of Chicago
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? Imerman Angels is my first
What do you enjoy doing, what are you passionate about when not working or involved with cancer support? My number one passion is being w my family wife Ruthie and son Connor 8 yrs old. We are all in Karate, enjoy bike rides on the lakefront and are big train fans, we take a yearly “traincation”. We are also huge White Sox fans.
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Bangalore, India
kanica@imermanangels.org
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Location: Bangalore, India
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? I was born and brought up in the ancient most city in the world – Varanasi (Kashi/Benaras). Went to Benaras Hindu University where I did post graduate degree in HR from the Faculty of Management Studies. Moved to New Delhi (capital of India) and pursued my career in HR at different levels with some of the best organizations, moved to Bangalore, after my marriage.
What groups or associations do you have or belong to? I am part of Cancer Care and Treatment group in India. I am also an active volunteer at the Kiran Mazumdar – Shaw Cancer Center at Bangalore, India
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? Benaras Hindu University; yes I am well connected with my alum.
What do you do for work? I am a stay at home mom from the last 6 months.
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? My Skills are in connecting with other organizations through LinkedIn and social media platforms. I am yet to try fund raisers.
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? I am a caregiver. It’s an extremely overwhelming journey as a caregiver. This is my first (and hopefully the last) experience up close with cancer. After getting over a storm of emotions and fears; I am a much calmer person now, although I still have bouts of severe anxiety especially around my husband’s chemo time. I have learnt to accept things the way they are. I now draw strength and a feeling of well-being by helping and guiding others on the cancer journey.
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? Ravi was treated at Kiran Mazumdar – Shaw Cancer Center at Narayana Health City; I am in regular touch with his radiologist and his Neuro Surgeon I am part of their WhatsApp group for updates and for helping others with a recent diagnosis.
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? I have just started, so not much to say.
What do you enjoy doing, what are you passionate about when not working or involved with cancer support? I am passionate about almost everything I do. I love reading, going for nature walks with my kids. I have a huge green thumb, so love gardening and organic farming. I grow some very tough and exotic things on my terrace, love reading educational and informative books to the kids.
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Indianapolis, IN
bives@imermanangels.org
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Location: Indianapolis, IN
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? I grew up in the Midwest in a small town called Covington, Indiana. I moved to Philadelphia for my first job out of college, then to Chicago, Singapore, Shanghai, back to Chicago, Boulder, and have short stints in San Mateo, Ojai and now I am back in the Midwest between Indianapolis, Chicago and Central Illinois before I “settle down”.
I do have a lot of professional connections not only in the places that I have lived but all over the world and I tap into those frequently to help support this cause as well as others.
What groups or associations do you have or belong to? I have been helping Imerman Angels since 2010 in a variety of capacities from being a connections specialist, running for Team IA and the Chicago Marathon in 2013/2014, doing general outreach at local Chicago events, being a Caregiver Mentor Angel and now helping as an ambassador.
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? I attended Purdue University and I have to admit that I am not active in the alumni community. I can easily make calls and connections there though.
I also have gone through extensive post graduate work in personal and organizational development and I am deeply connected to the community of alumni with a couple of different organizations as a result. I often promote IA to these groups to generate awareness and hear of many personal cancer stories along the way.
What do you do for work? I am an Executive Coach/Trainer/Speaker and Entrepreneur. I work with all sizes of companies, non-profits and individuals in the area of leadership development. I work for myself as well as in partnership with a global learning organization called LSHuman.com. I work with purpose/mission driven companies helping them improve the well-being of their people and their organization so they can make a bigger impact in the world. Prior to my life as an executive coach, I spent more than 15 years working for Fortune 500 companies in the areas of business development, marketing and consulting.
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? I am a connector and a great listener. When I am in conversation with people I naturally start connecting dots and putting them in contact with others where it is relevant. I also am great at generating ideas of possibilities and being innovative. I am highly strategic and a huge cheerleader for possibilities so if you have a problem to solve, I’m your gal to help brainstorm and generate ways to make the new things possible.
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? I am a caregiver. My mom was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer when I was 33 and living far away from her and my family in Singapore. I really wish I had something like IA when this happened. I was isolated, I didn’t know anyone who had lost a parent to cancer and let alone someone who was single and living in another country. When I learned about IA, I knew I could help others.
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? None specifically, but that doesn’t stop me. I use my connections and my experience in sales to reach out and find out who to talk to. Or I ask for help.
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? Most of my non-profit work has been with IA and with Chicago’s very own Culinary Care. I have been involved with other non-profit boards early in my professional career helping to raise funds, build awareness and generate donations/gifts for various events. I have also spent time building homes in Vietnam for Habitat for Humanity and also had the opportunity to work with micro-credit financing Nobel Peace Prize winner Yusuf Grameen’s Organization in Bangladesh. My heart is connected deeply to servant leadership.
What do you enjoy doing, what are you passionate about when not working or involved with cancer support? You will likely find me outdoors in nature either running or hiking with my neurotic yet adorable yellow lab Lemon (aka Liz Lemon). Music, movement and dance are things that bring me great joy especially when I am with friends and family. I adore cooking a big meal, having juicy conversations, summer campfires by the beach and having downtime just to myself to gobble up a great book.
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Boston, MA
echarsky@imermanangels.org
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Location: Boston, MA
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? I grew up in the small town of Deerfield in Western MA, home of Yankee Candle Company. At age 17, I started to travel around the world, living in Guam, Japan, Australia and the Middle East. I also lived in various places in the US due to Military Service and different jobs living in, MA, VT, FL (Tampa, Gainesville and Jacksonville), Chicago, Seattle and San Antonio TX. I am connected with many professional and executive organizations nationally as well as many different cancer and veteran organizations.
What groups or associations do you have or belong to? Lobbyist for LiveStrong Foundation, FL State Leader for LiveStrong Foundation, Stupid Cancer, Lemons of Love, Brushes With Cancer, Board Member Testicular Cancer Foundation, Hire a Hero, Disabled Veterans Asc., Veterans Administration, Leukemia Lymphoma Society, Team In Training, Photographer for Team Survivor National and FL State.
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? St Leo College, Ashford University – Not well connected
What do you do for work? Own a recruiting firm, currently focused on engineering while developing other verticals.
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? Corporate strengths are teambuilding, project management, recruiting operations, business development, corporate growth, market acquisition, market studies and strategic development of talent. I can help IA by developing relationships with other organizations, professional networks, companies and hospitals.
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? 3 X Survivor
At 33 I was diagnosed with FAP (Type of Colon Cancer) had many major surgeries removing a lot of my digestive system due to thousands of polyps throughout my entire digestive system. Post-op I was involved with 3 Pilot Programs for 3 different drugs which caused damage to my heart, kidneys and liver. One of the drugs was approved by the FDA for major cases of FAP. After the Pilot programs and “anti- chemotherapy”, I was involved with many genetic studies. At 42 I was diagnosed with rectal cancer and went through another surgery (no Chemo) and at 45 I was diagnosed with a Seminoma Testicular Cancer, again having surgery without chemo.
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? Sloan Kettering – no relationships, Brigham Women’s Hospital – many surgical GI relationships, Dana Farber Cancer Institute – many oncological GI relationships, Harvard Medical – some genetic relationships, Moffit Cancer Center FL – many GI surgical relationships, Shands Medical – no relationships remaining, University of Chicago – some GI specialist relationships, VA Hospital VT – no relationships, VA Hospital San Antonio, many relationships in urology ward, MD Anderson and Cleveland Clinic – some GI relationships still.
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? Lobbyist for LiveStrong Foundation, FL State Leader for LiveStrong Foundation, Stupid Cancer, Lemons of Love, Brushes With Cancer, Board Member Testicular Cancer Foundation, Hire a Hero, Disabled Veterans Asc., Veterans Administration, Leukemia Lymphoma Society, Team In Training, Photographer for Team Survivor National and FL State.
What do you enjoy doing, what are you passionate about when not working or involved with cancer support? Sailing, Racing yachts, Reading, Outdoor Activities, Exploring, Eating good food, spending time with friends, growing my company.
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Minneapolis/St. Paul “The Twin Cities”, MN
leagle@imermanangels.org
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Location: Minneapolis/St. Paul “The Twin Cities”, MN
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? I grew up in the Chicago area, but have moved 7 times over the course of the last 30 years. In a previous life, I was an HR executive with one of the Big Eight Accounting/Consulting firms.
What groups or associations do you have or belong to? Currently I am a member of Twin Cities Gilda’s Club which is a very active cancer support facility in Minneapolis.
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? Miami University in Ohio. No I am not actively involved.
What do you do for work? I volunteer for Imerman Angels and am raising 2 mini Australian Shepard puppies, which is a full time job!
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? With my HR background, I bring my experiences of working with diverse groups of people. I am a good listener and am able to bring people together to meet common ground.
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? I am both. First I was a caregiver to my son who was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma while in college. Next, I was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma on an eyelid requiring reconstruction. I have been matched as a caregiver mentor angel 6 or 7 times. I requested support when I was diagnosed and met, in person, with another mentor angel in Chicago who also had had reconstruction. We are friends and remain in touch! I lost my father to lung cancer while in my 20’s. That was a very painful time in my life and spurred my involvement with the ACS.
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? My son was treated at Kellogg Cancer Center in Evanston and we are still connected. My son will be celebrating last scan and his 5 year cancerversary in May! I was treated at Highland Park Hospital in Illinois and still have relationships with people there. I also am still in contact with a Support Group Facilitator at the Cancer Wellness Center in Northbrook.
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? I have conducted information sessions for cancer support groups, met with numerous medical professionals in the region to promote IA and hosted tables at fundraisers. I was my company’s Team Leader for the ACS Bikeathon in Chicago for several years. I was also the Board President for a domestic violence shelter in Ozaukee County, WI. In addition, I was active in the school district when my children were in school, School Board Member and PTO President.
What do you enjoy doing, what are you passionate about when not working or involved with cancer support? When not celebrating life with family and friends, I enjoy many outdoor activities. I am an avid paddle tennis player and have initiated a women’s paddle league in the Minneapolis Lakes region. I enjoy tennis, swimming, hiking, biking and now training dogs!
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Amsterdam, The Netherlands
rgreene@imermanangels.org
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Location: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? I grew up in the Caribbean. I was born on the island of Saint Kitts, and moved to Curacao at the age of 12. After living there for a number of years, I moved to The Netherlands at the age of 21 and have been living here ever since.
What groups or associations do you have or belong to? I am the President of the HungerNdThirst Foundation. This offers 1-0n-1 professionally-led social, practical and mental support. The foundation goals are to find practical solutions for taste distortion caused by chemotherapy.
What do you do for work? I am a Social Entrepreneur and I work as a concept and business developer. I am the owner and Managing Director of meetSue and D Unknown which is an online fashion, art and music magazine.
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? I am a professional networker and concept developer.
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? I am entering my third year since my cancer treatment. Cancer changed my life in various ways. It has also taught me a lot. It had a negative, but also a positive impact on my life.
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? I was treated at the O.L.V.G hospital which is based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. I also have a working relationship with the hospital.
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? I have worked as Vice President of a non-profit organization, focused on the environment.
What do you enjoy doing, what are you passionate about when not working or involved with cancer support? I enjoy going to the gym, traveling, networking and working. I have interest in fashion and music.
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New York, NY
bsalter@imermanangels.org
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Location: New York, NY
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? I grew up in Metro Detroit, went to undergrad at the University of Michigan, then medical school at Michigan State. I moved from Michigan to Chicago for my residency and then did fellowship in New York City. I am part of the UM Alumni Association, but don’t stay connected to Michigan State.
What groups or associations do you have or belong to? University of Michigan Alumni Association, various anesthesia organization, and IA New York!!
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? University of Michigan see above.
What do you do for work? Cardiac Anesthesia at Mount Sinai Medical Center
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? I think my skills are leadership, organization and communication.
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? My father is a primary neck cancer survivor. I had Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2007. I went through 6 months of chemotherapy, without radiation treatment. My entire family has participated as caregiver mentors and I have given back as both a caregiver and survivor mentor angel.
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? I was treated at Beaumont Hospital and Providence Hospital in Michigan. I am still connected to my oncologist there.
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? I have been an active member of IA since 2007 and have helped get IA in New York City off the ground.
What do you enjoy doing, what are you passionate about when not working or involved with cancer support? I love eating and travelling, and so any opportunity to do either one I will take advantage of!!!!
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Cincinnati, OH
vkurtzer@imermanangels.org
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Location: Cincinnati, OH
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? I grew up in south Texas most of my life and after I transferred to Indiana University in Bloomington, I followed my husband to Cincinnati, Ohio. I have connections mainly in Cincinnati, Ohio since this is where my husband was treated and I became his caregiver, “cheerleader,” advocate and learned to be a tiger in the unknown world called, Cancer! I have some understanding of NCI hospitals and navigating the medical system after going to New York to a training in Patient Navigation from the Dr. Harold P. Freeman Patient Navigation Institute.
What groups or associations do you have or belong to? I have been invited to be on an Oncology Panel at The Christ Hospital Oncology Center this May. I will be speaking in front of 50-75 Oncology Nurses all around the Tristate area about Imerman and how we can bring HOPE to their patients and caregivers. I am also going to have a booth at an event that over 200 people attend called Partners of Hope through Jewish Hospital- Mercy on May 6th. My goal is to build relationships with the key professionals at the hospitals to see how we can collaborate.
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? I graduated from the University of Cincinnati. I am not well connected.
What do you do for work? I work as a Provider Specialist at Buckeye Health Plan in Cincinnati, Ohio. I am a liaison between the Providers and Buckeye and educate providers with the different resources and incentives at Buckeye.
What are your strengths in what you do or how you can help IA? I am a determined person who does not take NO for an answer. I am persistent in connecting to the decision makers to build relationships and eventually have a win-win scenario. I love speaking about IA to nurses, social workers, and whoever will take the time to see the impact it brings to families! My real strengths are speaking to patients and caregivers in their rooms and simply listening to them. The power of listening and following up with what you say you are going to deliver is key to success. I am empowered when I speak to patients and caregivers and say the words, “You are not alone.”
Are you a survivor or a caregiver? I was a caregiver to my husband who successfully beat cancer 6 years ago! I volunteered at the Cancer Support Community (Gilda’s Club), and have actively been involved with IA for over 2 years now. My husband successfully beat cancer 6 years ago at the age of 40 and I found myself being a caregiver as a young wife and mother of two young girls with no family in town. I yearned to connect with someone who could provide one on one support who simply understood the nightmare we experienced. I would have LOVED to have had a Mentor Caregiver Angel that I could have provided HOPE. I became an Ambassador after referring many patients and caregivers to Imerman while working at Fight Colorectal Cancer as an Answer Line Associate. I am actively in the community setting up more than 7 socials, speaking engagements, T.V. coverage and anywhere I can make a difference in helping make more matches!
What hospitals do you have relationships with at this time? My main relationships in Cincinnati, Ohio are at Christ Hospital and Jewish/ Mercy hospital. I have done over 7 socials at Christ hospital and now have the opportunity to go to the in-patient floor on the weekends and help make more matches!
What work have you done in the non-profit world with cancer? I worked at Fight Colorectal Cancer 4 years ago and volunteered at the Cancer Support Community in Cincinnati.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not volunteering in the cancer world? I love spending time with my husband and two amazing teenage daughters! I love exercising and being able to enjoy the outdoors.
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Ottawa, ON
bsmyth@imermanangels.org
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Location: Ottawa, ON(Possibly all of Canada)
What is your connection to this location, how long have you lived there? I have lived in Ottawa all my life, it is our Nation’s Capital and I LOVE my little big city, it is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground with ample historic and tourist attractions for every taste.
What groups or associations do you have or belong to? I am building everything from the ground up here in Ottawa, I’m hoping to build on Imerman Angel’s 10th year by having an official (and HUGE) launch here in Ottawa this year, stay tuned for details.
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? Algonquin College, not so connected, Alumni associations and that connection are not as prevalent in Canada as they are in the USA.
What do you do for work? Project Manager, Information Technology with the Federal
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? I am a planner by nature with some proven ability to bring groups together to build a community working towards a common goal. One of the things that drew me to Imerman Angels from the beginning was the underlying sense of community.
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? My first experience with cancer was losing my grandfather to lip and lung cancer when I was very young, I used to be able to count on one hand the number of people I knew who were diagnosed with cancer, sadly that number is increasing every day and the number of people I know within 1 degree of separation is now over a dozen, that number sky rockets once we get beyond one degree of separation.
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? Being new to Ottawa and Canada, we do not have any relationships established as yet, but our focus is on connecting and establishing these relationships to bring our unique community of support to the Ottawa oncology landscape.
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? I volunteered for 5 years as the IT person for a local community resource center and became involved with cancer charities when one of my best friends was diagnosed with stage IV Hodgkin’s lymphoma. That year, I ran my first marathon and for the last 4 years, I have been raising funds for Imerman Angels as a member of Team Imerman Angels. Last year we fielded the first ever Team Imerman Angels Canada at the Chicago Marathon. I also signed up as an Ambassador last year and I am looking forward to growing our community here in Ottawa and across Canada.
What do you enjoy doing, what are you passionate about when not working or involved with cancer support? I am an endurance athlete, not words I (or likely anyone who me in high school) ever thought I would utter. Simply put, since I began training for long distance running events, multi-sport and triathlon, the people I have met have changed my life. They each bring unique perspectives and backgrounds to our training and racing and I consider myself so fortunate to be a part of such an amazing community. I guess that’s a common thread in the things that resonate with me….community.
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Portland, OR
ashatsman@imermanangels.org
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Location: Portland, OR
Where did you grow up? Have you moved around a lot with your career? If so, what professional connections do you have throughout different locations? I grew up in the Metro-Detroit Organizations. My main connections are with Camp Kesem (camp for kids whose parents have/have had cancer) given that I was a director of the University of Michigan chapter. Unfortunately the hospitals at which my mother was treated and that I did a lot of volunteer work with have had a lot of turn-over recently. The only other area I have lived, pre-portland was Chicago— and we’ve got that covered!
What groups or associations do you have or belong to? Currently I am starting a Cancer Coalition for the Northwest Region: NW Cancer Coalition and Think Tank. I am also “in cahoots” with a few local organizations here in Portland to promote collaboration in the community.
Where did you attend college? Are you well connected with alum? University of Michigan. Unfortunately, not particularly well connected!
What do you do for work? Sales, Sales Operations for a Chicago-area company: SenecaGlobal!
What are your strengths in what you do or that can help IA? My Skills are in connecting with other organizations through LinkedIn and social media platforms. I’ve also had a lot of success with event planning and fundraisers.
Are you a survivor or caregiver? What has been your cancer experience? Cancer has unfortunately played a large role in my life. I have lost a few family members to cancer and my mother is a two-time cancer survivor. During her treatment for Thyroid Cancer, I was able to take time off of work and go home to act as a care-giver. My introduction to Imerman Angels was when I first joined the Imerman Angels Professionals Board in Chicago. I am honored to now be supporting an organization’s growth world-wide. I’ve been involved in the Cancer-support community for the past 7 years and am excited to continue my involvement.
What hospitals have you been treated at, or are you associated with and do you have relationships with anyone still? I have done work with Beaumont Hospital in Michigan… That’s also where my mom was treated. Unfortunately, much of the staff there has recently left.
What work have you done in the cancer or non-profit world? I used to run the University of Michigan Chapter of Camp Kesem. I also have worked with a whole heck of a lot of animal rescues. Currently I am a volunteer grant writer for the rescue where we got our dog, Timber. I am also starting a local Cancer Coalition and Think Tank to help local Cancer Support Nonprofits link up with local businesses collaborate on events.
What do you enjoy doing, what are you passionate about when not working or involved with cancer support? I am super passionate about nature/hiking and exploring the area! My husband Bryce and I love going on hikes and are planning a number of camp outs for the summer. We are also HUGE Red Wings (hockey), Broncos (football), and Timbers (soccer) fans- thus we love cooking a good meal and watching a game!! When we are at home, we are surrounded by our very adorable cat, Chelly (who joins for most Ambassador Meetings) and 3-legged dog, Timber. We also spend a lot of time training Timber who is in training to become a service animal and we hope that he can someday supplement our Imerman Angels Sweet Treat Socials 🙂
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Jonny’s personal message to Ambassadors
IA Spokesperson/Representative Guidelines
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Imerman Angels 1 pager Hospitals
Imerman Angels 1 pager Hospitals (Canada)
Follow Up Email with Brochure Request
Email to recruit mentor angels in your area
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Quotes about our Sweet Treat Socials
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