In Sonoma County, Calif., approximately 2,400 people are diagnosed with cancer each year.
“We are living in extraordinary times, and in spite of all this, cancer diagnoses are still happening,” said Lisa Amador, assistant administrator and director of philanthropy for Sutter Health in the North Bay.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sutter’s philanthropy team knew they needed to change up their famed Catwalk For A Cure event, which raises money to support programs and services for those with living cancer.
“A reimagining was necessary and vital to support Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation’s Cancer Support and Integrative Health & Healing services. We got busy planning a fun and meaningful tribute,” said Amador.
Going Virtual in 2020
This year’s revamped format featured interviews with cancer survivors, ‘did you know’ Catwalk trivia, music, and hundreds of photos of the most outrageous fashions from years past.
Cindy Cantril, RN, MPH, OCN, CBCN, regional director of cancer support services and patient navigation for Sutter Bay Medical Foundation, shared that Sutter’s Cancer Support Services are available to anyone battling cancer, whether they are receiving care through Sutter or not.
“Our goal is to serve patients from the moment of diagnosis to end of life. We provide virtual support groups, pain relief, equine-assisted therapy, retreats, counseling, and educational programs that help with anxiety, nutrition, and exercise,” said Cantril.
Tara Jasper was among the interviewees who opened up to viewers about her cancer journey.
“The network of women and survivors I have met through the Catwalk community has given me an incredible safety net. I’m grateful to all the donors for being so committed to keeping this program and these services alive,” she said.
Catwalk’s Legacy
Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation’s (SPMF) Cancer Support and Integrative Health & Healing services have been assisting cancer patients and their families since 2004. Programs are philanthropically funded, provided at no cost to individuals, and are kept going because of grants, foundation support and individual donors.
This year, more than $140,000 was raised virtually, with more than $5 Million raised since the first Catwalk event. To watch the 2020 recording, please visit here.
