NCW Cancer Heroes

Anne is a volunteer, a community advocate, and a cancer survivor. She has championed cancer “thrivers” across the Chelan Valley for two decades. Born and raised in Seattle, Anne earned a degree in recreation and park management. She met her husband, Randy, while both were Rangers at Mt. Rainier National Park. Anne and Randy moved to Chelan, Randy’s hometown, in 2000 to raise their two sons. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, Anne connected with Wellness Place and has been a steadfast leader ever since - serving on the board since 2015 to represent the Chelan area. Anne founded and facilitates the Chelan Cancer Support Group, open to everyone in the valley, and continues to walk alongside newly diagnosed patients with compassion and practical help. Anne has been a Board Member of Wellness Place for over 10 years. Recently, she joined the Wellness Place’s Joy Fund committee, dedicated to creating joyful experiences for palliative cancer patients. She loves inviting local partners to join the effort - and seeing how enthusiastically the community responds. Anne’s advocacy honors the memory of her sister-in-law, who faced cancer alongside her, and reflects her tireless commitment to ensuring no one in this community walks the journey alone.

Marissa embodies grace, resilience, and fierce determination. As a newlywed, she had just made a bold career change. Her world was full of joy, possibility, and new beginnings - then, she was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. She did not despair, she took action. She dove headfirst into research - learning everything about treatment options, side effects, and healing. She didn’t just want to survive cancer, she wanted to navigate it with clarity and advocate for herself every step of the way. With incredible openness, Marissa wholeheartedly included her friends and family in her cancer journey - empowering them to take an active role and participate in her healing. She invited them to chemo appointments, turning some of the hardest days into memorable moments of connection, support, and laughter. Through it all, she remained present, honest, and open. She let her people see her - the fear, the hope, and everything in between. Now, on the other side of treatment, Marissa has taken her experience and transformed it into purpose, dedicating her career to helping others facing their own cancer journeys. Marissa pours everything she learned and lived back into the world, making it better for others.

Becky has been the heart of Our House, Cancer Care of NCW’s Regional Resource Center, for more than 30 years. As House Manager, she embodies caregiving and compassion, alleviating the day to day inconvenience of cancer by providing housing and support for patients traveling to Wenatchee for treatment. Becky’s connection with cancer began when her daughter was diagnosed with leukemia at just 18 months - a battle she survived. When the family moved to Wenatchee, a provider connected Becky with oncology nurse Betsy Tontini, who became the founder of Our House. This introduction launched Becky’s decades-long journey with Our House: from serving the very first guest as a volunteer, to becoming the longtime House Manager, and organizing the beloved annual Christmas Bake Sale fundraiser. She worked closely with Betsy until her passing, carrying forward her vision with steadfast devotion. Then Becky was diagnosed with cancer: early-stage breast cancer in 2013, then endometrial cancer in 2024. As a Cancer Survivor now, her connection to cancer and the people she serves has deepened. Becky’s steadfast contributions are a cornerstone of Our House’s success. Her devotion to guests transforms Our House into more than lodging—it becomes a sanctuary of support, comfort, and hope.

Bob is a hero whose life is defined by service, resilience, and optimism. He dedicated 28 years to law enforcement, serving in the U.S. Army from 1988 to 1996 in military police, followed by roles in executive protection and private investigation. Today, he continues serving the community as a bus driver for Link Transit. Bob’s journey as a cancer survivor began when an aggressive form of kidney cancer was discovered in 2019. His Urologist determined the disease was linked to chemical exposure during his army training at Fort McClellan, near a chemical plant. The initial prognosis was devastating, less than a year to live. But, a second Oncologist offered much more hope. 5 years later, daily chemo meds are keeping the cancer from growing. Despite this life-changing diagnosis, Bob has met this challenge with tremendous courage. He believes a positive attitude will not only uplift those around him but also strengthen his own immune system as he fights the disease. Known for his kindness, determination, and unwavering optimism, Bob inspires everyone he meets. Whether serving his country, protecting his community, or supporting others through cancer, Bob demonstrates that a positive spirit can make a profound difference.

Kim is a radiant force of resilience and hope in the Wenatchee Valley. As a two-time cancer survivor, Kim doesn’t just live - she thrives, embracing each day with empathy, gratitude, humor, and an open heart. Her cancer journey only strengthened her resolve to uplift others facing similar challenges. Kim's unwavering spirit shines through her volunteer work at Wellness Place, supporting cancer patients and their families. Whether offering a listening ear, sharing hard-earned wisdom, or simply showing up with her signature warmth and wit, Kim brings light and connection to every room she enters. Her large family and wide circle of friends are continually inspired by her boundless energy and compassion. “I do this for my grandkids,” she says. To the local cancer community, Kim is more than a survivor—she’s a beacon of strength, a source of encouragement, and a living testament to the power of perseverance. She embodies what it means to turn adversity into purpose, reminding us all that life, even after hardship, can be rich with meaning, joy, and love.

Briana learned she carries two genetic mutations that predispose her to a higher risk of cancer. She faced three cancer diagnoses between the ages of 34 and 36, all while raising a young daughter. These experiences have given her deep insight into the physical, emotional, and family challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. Motivated by her daughter’s thoughtful questions and a desire to support other families during difficult times, Briana wrote "Ada Asks About Cancer", a gentle, age-appropriate book designed to help young children understand what cancer is and how loved ones may be affected. She completed the project during treatment, determined to turn her family’s journey into something that could help others. Through compassionate storytelling rooted in lived experience, Briana provides parents and caregivers with a resource to open conversations that are often avoided, but deeply needed. Her work reflects her belief that even the hardest topics can be approached with clarity, love, and hope. Briana’s courage, tenacity, and empathy continue to inspire those who know her and others facing cancer. By transforming her own struggles into guidance and comfort, she has created a legacy of resilience and connection for families walking similar paths.

Karen was the heart of her family - a devoted wife, nurturing mother, adoring grandmother, and steadfast friend. Known for her warmth and hospitality, her door was always open, the coffee always on, and there was always room for one more at her table. She made everyone feel like family. When diagnosed with breast cancer, Karen met the challenge with grace, courage, and optimism. She completed treatment, beat the disease, and didn’t let it define her. Instead, she embraced life with a renewed joy, turning her focus to what mattered most - love, laughter, and shared experiences. With her beloved husband and dog, Karen traveled from coast to coast in their RV, collecting memories, meeting new friends, and savoring life’s simple wonders. She was always there for others - with a meal, a hug, or a listening ear - embodying kindness in action. Even when cancer returned later in life, Karen’s spirit never dimmed. She kept her humor, her generosity, and her unwavering love. Her legacy lives on in her children, her grandchildren and every person who felt they belonged because of her. Cancer may have touched her life, but it never took away the light she brought into the world.

Dennis is a retired pharmacist, an extraordinary gardener, and a two-time cancer survivor. About ten years ago, he faced prostate cancer and underwent robotic surgery. In 2023, Dennis bravely confronted stage 4 Non-Hodgkin’s Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma, enduring six months of chemotherapy like a champ! Today, he is cancer-free and continues with routine follow-up monitoring. Dennis’s journey has been marked not only by his personal battles with cancer but also by profound loss, including his younger brother at age 28, his dad, as well as his beloved grandson, Carter, to Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) in 2018. Through it all, he has maintained a chosen mindset of gratitude, positivity, and hope. He offers uplifting words to everyone he meets and strives to make the world a better place through his kindness and compassion. A devoted husband, Dennis credits his wife, Sharon, for her unwavering support throughout his recovery. Beyond his strength as a survivor, Dennis’s love for life shines through his garden, his relationships, and his inspiring attitude. We celebrate Dennis not just for overcoming cancer, but for the way he lives—with courage, gratitude, and generosity of spirit.

Megan is known by family and friends as a compassionate changemaker and natural philanthropist. She has a gift for bringing people together through her warmth, eloquence, integrity, and inclusive spirit. Mr. Rogers famously said, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” That’s Megan in a nutshell - a helper in every sense. When Wellness Place invited Megan to join the Board of Directors in 2015, she jumped in wholeheartedly—fundraising, offering wise counsel, and becoming an indispensable source of clarity and discernment. For nearly a decade, she strengthened the organization’s work through her steady leadership and community involvement, championing events like Pink at the Rink, Paella Parties, annual Galas, and Cancer Survivor Luncheons. In 2022, Megan underwent surgery for a benign brain tumor. Then, in February 2025, she was diagnosed with stage 2 invasive ductal and lobular carcinoma. She courageously faced a left mastectomy in March and will undergo a right mastectomy later this year. Thankfully, her cancer has not spread. Instead of chemotherapy or radiation, Megan will undergo 36 months of targeted oral and infusion therapy. Through it all, she continues to embody strength, compassion, and hope—living proof of the very spirit Wellness Place represents.

Lisa embodies what it means to be a Cancer Hero. Her cancer journey was defined by resilience, faith, and grace. Lisa not only endured treatment, she flourished, inspiring countless friends and community members along the way. Her unwavering positivity became a beacon of hope, showing others that joy and strength can thrive even in the midst of life’s most difficult seasons. Her path to healing was shaped by dedicated prayers, mindful nutrition, and her deep faith, which she credits for her recovery. Alongside her, Lisa’s daughter, Ellise Williams, was an extraordinary caregiver, walking beside her with love and devotion. Their bond reflects the power of family and the strength that comes from supporting one another through life’s hardest challenges. Lisa and her husband Tom recently celebrated 40 years of marriage. A beloved fitness instructor at WORX for decades, Lisa has helped others strengthen their bodies and spirits. Together, she and Tom created welcoming community spaces with The Henry Building and Bricks and Rafters, enhancing downtown Cashmere. Today, Lisa continues to inspire everyone around her with her presence, work, and message of hope - living proof of faith, love, and perseverance.

Laurie was a sister, wife, mother, friend, and tireless advocate for those affected with breast cancer. Diagnosed just months apart from her sister-in-law, Laurie faced her own journey with fierce determination and a commitment to helping others. True to her nature, she researched every aspect of breast cancer and turned her knowledge into action. Laurie served as an Advocate Reviewer for the Congressionally Directed Breast Cancer Program, helping determine which research projects would receive millions in Department of Defense funding. She was the Patient Representative on Evergreen Hospital’s Cancer Committee, an EvergreenHealth Community Advisor for the City of Redmond, and played a key role in revitalizing the Bosom Buddies Support Group. She initiated Evergreen Hospital’s Metastatic Cancer Support Group, worked with Cancer Lifeline, and served as a Peer Counselor for women living with both early-stage and metastatic breast cancer. A gifted communicator, Laurie spoke at numerous American Cancer Society events, served as a Relay for Life speaker and fundraiser, and volunteered for programs like Hope on the Slope and Y-Me. Laurie fought bravely for 11 years. Her legacy is one of advocacy, compassion, and unwavering dedication to ensuring no one faces cancer alone.

Lathai-a exemplifies a Cancer Champion through her extraordinary devotion and care for her father during his battle with cancer. When her father was diagnosed with throat cancer that had metastasized to his liver, he weighed just 98 pounds and was rapidly losing strength. Lathai closed her acupuncture practice in Florida and drove across the country to be by his side. She prepared nourishing meals, baked, juiced, and helped him regain strength—bringing his weight up to 115 pounds. Lathai managed his medications, attended appointments, cared for his wounds, and carefully maintained the skin around his feeding tube. Her tireless dedication allowed her father to enjoy precious moments with family and friends in his final days. Lathai remained by his side until his last breath, providing comfort, love, and unwavering support. Her actions are a testament to the profound impact of compassion, sacrifice, and presence. Through her devotion, Lathai not only honored her father’s life but also gave a remarkable example of what it means to be a Cancer Champion—selfless, courageous, and guided by love.

Jeri found her greatest joy in her family. Affectionately known as “Grammy,” Jeri treasured every moment with her husband, Ray, her four daughters, and her ten grandchildren. Her circle of love extended far beyond her immediate family - Jeri built a wide network of friends who felt like family, each touched by her warmth and kindness. Jeri was always ready with the perfect words of encouragement or piece of sage advice. She loved reading, playing cards, crafting, animals, and hunting for yard sale bargains. Jeri held a deep faith and unwavering belief in the goodness of people. For 9 years, Jeri faced numerous cancer battles with courage, positivity and grace. Her faith and family fueled her strength. Her optimism inspired everyone who knew her. Jeri had a rare gift for making people feel like her best friend, no matter how long they’d known her. Jeri’s legacy lives on in the hearts of her loved ones, in the laughter she shared, and in the countless lives she brightened. Her family knows she still visits - in the delicate, graceful form of a butterfly.

Michele has devoted her career to healthcare, focusing on cancer prevention, patient education, and empowering families to make informed decisions. She became an LPN at just 18 and went on to earn her associate degree in nursing will working full time, ultimately serving 23 years in the emergency department. She later completed her nurse practitioner degree and joined family medicine at Confluence, where she worked until her own cancer diagnosis of multiple myeloma. Through aggressive treatments—including chemotherapy, surgery, stem cell transplant, and participation in clinical trials—Michele gained the perspective of both provider and patient. She is a tireless advocate, supporting patients and families, raising funds, and increasing awareness. Michele is an active member of the Northwest Multiple Myeloma Fighters support group, guiding newly diagnosed patients and their caregivers with strength and hope. She also serves on the Confluence Foundation Board and has helped raise $370,000 for multiple myeloma research at Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center through her work with Defeat Myeloma. Michele’s optimism, resilience, and dedication to education, advocacy, and research embody the true spirit of a Cancer Hero. Her mission is clear: to empower others, advance science, and work toward a cure.

Renelle has dedicated her life to caring for others. From her small-town roots in Odessa to a remarkable 51 year career at Confluence Health, Renelle has been a steady source of empathy, warmth, and care to her family, friends, and patients. Renelle served in the Oncology department for 35 years, providing not only exceptional medical care but also profound compassion to patients and their families - often being the last comforting presence for those in their final moments. Renelle’s heart for service shone brightly in countless acts of kindness, including the time she came in on her day off to decorate a patient’s room for the holidays. Learning the patient faced financial hardship, she organized a donation drive, raising $900 - just one example of her fierce advocacy and generosity. In 2017, Renelle’s extraordinary dedication earned her the prestigious Daisy Award for nursing excellence. Married since 1970, Renelle treasures her family, her dogs, and her garden. She retired in 2020 with a beautiful send-off from her coworkers, but she missed the retirement party with loved ones due to COVID-19 restrictions. Today, we take the opportunity to honor not just her decades of skill and service, but the love, comfort, and hope she gave to our cancer community.

Will stood by his new bride, Marissa, with quiet strength and fierce devotion throughout her cancer journey in 2019-2020. As newlyweds, Will and Marissa anticipated a season of joy and new beginnings. Instead, cancer showed up uninvited. Will was committed to walking with Marissa every step of the way. He attended every appointment - sitting through every surgery, insisting on staying overnight in the hospital with her, even waiting outside during COVID restrictions. He took on bills and insurance, updated family and friends, and adapted daily life to keep her safe. Never imposing his own expectations, Will gave Marissa the confidence to make her own decisions while bringing humor and warm hugs to the most challenging days. He cooked breakfast, fetched French fries, drained tubes, filled expanders, and told her she was beautiful every day. Throughout the uncertainty and fear, Will’s steady, empathetic presence never wavered. Now as Marissa dedicates her career to helping others navigate cancer, Will remains her constant - supporting, encouraging, and championing her. His heroism was never flashy or loud, just quiet, gentle, and rooted in love.

Steve is a loving husband, father, father-in-law, “G-pops,” brother, uncle, and friend. He retired as Postmaster of Cashmere in March 2020 after a dedicated career with the U.S. Postal Service. In retirement, Steve enjoys traveling to beach destinations, golfing, restoring his 1950’s Chevy, reading, and - most of all - spending time with his family. In 2018, Steve was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a challenge he met head-on by joining Rock Steady Boxing and committing himself to fight everyday. True to his nature, when he received a stage 4 melanoma diagnosis in 2023, Steve’s response was simple and determined: “I’m going to fight this too.” With strength, optimism, and an incredible support network, he began immunotherapy treatments - and each check-in has brought the good news of less and less cancer. Steve’s journey reflects courage, perseverance, and hope. Whether it’s taking on health battles or telling his signature dad jokes, Steve brings joy and inspiration to everyone around him. His life is a testament to the power of a fighting spirit, the importance of laughter, and the unshakeable love of family and friends.

Stan was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend whose life centered on faith, family, and laughter. With his beloved wife Rita, Stan raised four children in Waitsburg where they owned and operated the local hamburger hangout, Ray’s Drive-in. It was more than a restaurant, it was a community gathering place, filled with warmth, good food, and Stan’s friendly smile. Known as “Poppy” to his grandkids and great-grandkids, Stan cherished every moment spent with family. He loved watching the Mariners, playing pranks, engaging in long card games, singing church hymns, and tending his home grown tomatoes. Stan faced cancer with the same spirit he brought to his everyday life - courage, optimism, and humor. Even during years of treatments and trips between appointments, he was quick with a grin and ready with a joke. His resilience lifted those around him, and his faith and positivity were an inspiration to all who knew him.

Sharon is committed to service, leadership, and resilience. Growing up in Colorado, she pursued science and education, earning degrees in biology and education from the University of Wyoming, later completing an MBA in healthcare at City University’s Bellevue campus. Her career spans roles as instructor, accountant, site coordinator, program administrator, and substitute teacher with organizations such as Griffin Business College, Mended Hearts, the American Red Cross, Amasia College, and Oregon Health and Science University. Sharon’s community contributions are equally varied. She was the first female park ranger naturalist, serving two summers at Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota. She has volunteered with the Humane Society, organized public events, supported the Seafair parade, hosted a free meal for princesses on parade floats, and held leadership roles in groups like the American Association of University Women and the American Legion’s 8/30 Women. In March 2024, Sharon received a lung cancer diagnosis amid severe water and mold damage to her home. Undeterred she completed chemo and radiation before Thanksgiving, only to face a breast cancer diagnosis in 2025. Sharon’s perseverance through challenges and personal trials exemplifies what it means to be a true Cancer Hero - undaunted and inspiring.

Bond is a warrior, a devoted wife, a fierce mother, and a remarkable woman whose story exemplifies perseverance, faith, and unwavering love. In December 2024, Bond’s life changed dramatically when she was diagnosed with HER2+ Invasive Breast Cancer that metastasised to the lymph nodes. Despite advocating for herself for months, her symptoms were repeatedly dismissed—until a mammogram shortly after her 40th birthday confirmed what her instincts had known. Bond’s diagnosis is aggressive and advanced, requiring immediate treatment including chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. Through it all, she remains a devoted wife to Jesse and a loving mom to Amelia and Clara. Even during grueling treatments, Bond continues to show up for her daughters, cheering passionately at Amelia’s dance competitions with her signature Guamanian Chamorro “Boom Boom Boom” chant—a powerful reminder that she is fighting, loving, and living fully. Bond’s courage, resilience, and unwavering faith make her a true Cancer Hero. She lifts others even while facing her own darkest days, doing so with grace, grit, and fierce motherly love. Her strength, devotion, and indomitable spirit inspire everyone around her, proving that love, hope, and determination can shine brightest even in the face of cancer.

Karen exemplified courage, purpose, and advocacy throughout her life, thriving even during her four-plus-year journey with stage four colon cancer. Her inner strength, independence, and unwavering spirit inspired everyone around her, as she uplifted, validated, and supported all who crossed her path. A lifelong advocate for women, Karen dedicated herself to creating meaningful change through her involvement with the Girl Scouts, local Democratic organizations, and the EASE Foundation. She built communities of sisterhood and camaraderie with fellow changemakers, effecting tangible impact and leaving a legacy of empowerment. Even as she faced her own health challenges, Karen continued to lead with purpose and passion, demonstrating that life—even in its most difficult moments—can be lived fully and meaningfully. Her life serves as a model of how to rise in the face of adversity, illuminate those around you, and leave a lasting impact on community and loved ones. Karen’s courage, dedication, and heart continue to inspire everyone fortunate enough to know her story.

Judy embodies courage, compassion, and gratitude as she navigates the challenges of cancer treatment and hospice care. From the moment of her diagnosis, she held tightly to the word Hope, and as her journey progressed, Gratitude became her guiding force. Judy’s dedication to gratitude is beautifully reflected in The Gratitude Garden at Our House—Cancer Care of NCW on Castlerock Street. As part of a volunteer team, she has poured her heart into designing a garden that communicates three principles: Reflect, Relax, Restore. Her words “Fill yourself with gratitude. There will be less room for fear and anxiety” grace the garden brochure, capturing her philosophy of life and care. Even while undergoing treatment, Judy expressed appreciation for her oncologists, nurses, hospice team, and countless others who supported her. Determined to leave more than words, she has created a sanctuary that refreshes and inspires all who enter—a lasting legacy born from her own experiences with suffering and service. Though her body is weary, Judy’s spirit remains vibrant, kind, and passionately committed to others. Every day with her is a gift, and her courage and creativity continue to touch all who know her.