Sarah Currey and Hunter Bernstein
The Associate Board at Gilda’s Club Middle Tennessee is bringing joy this Valentine’s Day to those impacted by cancer. The group is creating Valentine’s Day care packages for Gilda’s Club participants, focusing on families with young children and those who live alone.
The communities receiving these packages include Brentwood, Franklin, Nashville, Bellevue, Mt. Juliet, Gallatin and Murfreesboro. Packages include warm socks and gloves, candles, self-care items and other goodies.
During COVID-19, people with cancer and their caregivers are struggling with significant emotional stress. Compromised immune systems mean they must stay at home to safeguard their health — no quick trips to the grocery store or distanced hangouts for these individuals.
According to the Winship Cancer Institute (Emory University), “lack of social support has been associated with higher levels of anxiety and a lower quality of life in cancer patients.” Due to the increased isolation and anxiety, the Gilda’s Club team offers hybrid, in-person and virtual support.
“We are delighted to be able to spread some joy to Gilda’s Club Members through these care packages for Valentine’s Day,” Associate Board member Katherine Shaoul said.
In 2021, GCMTN served 4,856 individuals, including 200+ new participants. GCMTN held support groups, counseling, distress screening, health & parent coaching, resource support sessions, and 543 healthy lifestyle & movement classes.
Donations received by:
- Aveda – Green Hills
- Batch Nashville
- Buff City Soap – Green Hills
- The Christie Cookie Co.
- Asher Freiberg
- Jacob Kupin and The Kupin Group
- Metro Arts
Member care packages are an ongoing initiative by the Gilda Club Middle Tennessee Associate Board to provide support to those most in need. Interested in donating items in the future? Reach out to Molly Warren at molly@gildasclubmiddletn.org. For more information, visit gildasclubmiddletn.org.
