Northwestern Medicine Living Well Cancer Resources is marking its 20th anniversary this September. The center, which began in 2005 as a grassroots initiative, has expanded to serve cancer patients and their families across Northern Illinois and beyond. With locations in Geneva, Warrenville, and an upcoming satellite site in Orland Park, the organization offers a range of free services such as counseling, support groups, fitness classes, nutrition guidance, medical presentations, and a wig boutique.
Candy Domke-Hochberg, operations administrator for Northwestern Medicine Living Well Cancer Resources, said: “This milestone is a testament to the strength of our community and the unwavering commitment of our volunteers, staff, and supporters. We are honored to have walked alongside so many individuals on their cancer journeys and remain dedicated to providing hope and healing for years to come.”
Christopher George, MD, medical director of oncology at Northwestern Medicine Living Well Cancer Resources added: “Support from Living Well has been enormously helpful to my patients. In the cancer clinic, there often isn’t time to address all the holistic needs of cancer patients. Living Well more than fills that gap, providing patients and families with practical tools that improve well-being.”
The mission was shaped by founders Fred Dornbach, Joanne Hansen, Susan Lyons and Terry Murphy. Joanne Hansen drew from her own experience after being diagnosed with lung cancer at age 44 in 1984. She emphasized the importance of having comprehensive support services available under one roof: “You can’t go through a cancer journey alone. Often your spouse and loved ones don’t understand and, truthfully, your spouse and your family need support as well, which is why creating Living Well was so important to me,” Hansen said.
Terry Murphy became involved after his wife Rosemary “Posey” Murphy lived with breast cancer for 12 years before passing away in 2003. He explained: “Our aspirations were to be able to make these services available in the Fox Valley area. That's what our original charter said,” Murphy said. “The fact that we're able to look at all of Northern Illinois and say that our footprint encompasses all of that, that exceeds my wildest dreams.”
Hansen reflected on two decades of work: “After 20 years, the enthusiasm for Living Well is still so great. So many people believe in the mission. I often say it is more than I dreamed of and all that I hoped for,” she said.
Living Well joined Northwestern Medicine in 2012 with a goal of ensuring no one faces cancer alone. The center now supports people living in nearly 300 counties nationwide as well as internationally through both virtual and onsite programs.
To celebrate its anniversary year, Northwestern Medicine will host a Walk & 5k event on October 11 at which survivors will be recognized through a run/walk followed by a festival for families and friends. Proceeds will fund educational programs and clinical support provided by Living Well Cancer Resources.
