Community partners gathered at The Richland Hospital highlighting available services for people impacted by cancer

A group of community partners recently gathered at The Richland Hospital and Clinics to highlight services available for people impacted by cancer.

Keynote speakers included Kirsten Norslien, program director for Gilda’s Club Wisconsin, and Eileen Stevens, president of Greater Richland Area Cancer Elimination (GRACE). Additional attendees included Jean Alt and Todd Miller with Spring Green’s 4PeteSake, along with medical representatives from Gundersen St. Joseph’s Hospital, Crossing Rivers Health, Grant County Hospice, Gundersen Boscobel Hospital and Clinics, and several members of The Richland Hospital and Clinics.

Stevens opened the event by underscoring the mission of GRACE. Todd Miller of 4 Pete’s Sake noted the value of collaboration. Norslien shared insights from her 18 years with Gilda’s Club Wisconsin. The organization’s 18 staff members serve the entire state, offering support for people with any type of cancer, at any stage, and at any age. They also provide programming for those grieving the loss of someone to cancer. She also outlined a wide range of wellness offerings, from yoga and relaxation to fly-fishing and cooking classes.

The goal of the gathering was to strengthen connections between the medical community and support organizations, ensuring patients learn about available resources as early as possible.  Stevens said, “Getting us all in the same room to make sure we’re all aware is such an important first step.” She plans to continue bringing this group together twice a year. 

To learn more about GRACE go online to walkwithgrace.com. For more information on 4 Pete Sake check out 4petesake.com; and for information on Gilda’s Club of Wisconsin visit Gildasclubwi.org.

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