In the heart of Marysville,where the C-Suite Center for Hope dedicates itself to supporting cancer patients, there’s a special synergy with the American Cancer Society’s initiatives. Cassie Golden, has been an active participant and volunteer with the Society’s Relay for Life since 2009 and remains passionately involved, particularly in light of her family’s personal battles with cancer.
For Golden and many others involved with the C-Suite Center for Hope and the American Cancer Society, the real reward is witnessing the tangible differences they make in the lives of those affected by cancer. Photo courtesy of C-Suite Center for Hope.
Golden’s commitment to the cause began when her sister was diagnosed with cancer. “Starting to relay was something I felt compelled to do,” Golden shares. She initially raised $2,500 in a little more than a week and soon realized that she needed to contribute more significantly. This motivation led her to join a committee dedicated to organizing Relay For Life events.
Relay For Life is a grassroots community fundraising event where people gather to celebrate victories against cancer, remember those lost and fight back by raising funds for the American Cancer Society.
“Everything we raise goes towards helping fund programs that support cancer patients and their families,” Golden explains. Among these are “Hope Lodge” and “Road to Recovery” housing solutions – providing accommodation and transportation solutions to patients – which significantly ease the financial burden on those already struggling with treatment fatigue.
Golden’s experience has been profoundly shaped by the community and camaraderie found in these events. “There’s nothing more heartwarming than seeing people come together, sharing their strengths and struggles against cancer,” she remarks.
The center’s mission is to not only fight cancer but to ensure that no one has to face it alone. Photo courtesy of C-Suite Center for Hope.
The luminaria ceremony is particularly moving for her, where participants decorate bags with the names of loved ones affected by cancer, illuminated by lights, symbolizing hope and remembrance.
Her role within the organization focuses on leveraging individual strengths to enhance their collective impact. “We have a small but mighty committee,” she notes. “Each of us brings unique skills to the table, from medical community connections to organizing memorable events that honor survivors and supporters alike.”
The challenges are many, especially in financially difficult times. Convincing the community of the importance of every small donation is a constant battle. “It’s about making them understand that every little bit counts,” Golden says.
For Golden and many others involved with the C-Suite Center for Hope and the American Cancer Society, the real reward is witnessing the tangible differences they make in the lives of those affected by cancer. “Watching survivors who’ve faced their fears and come out stronger on the other side inspires me every day,” she stated. “It’s why I keep coming back.”
Relay for Life remembers those lost and fight back by raising funds for the American Cancer Society.Photo courtesy of C-Suite Center for Hope.
This spirit of relentless support and community engagement exemplifies the mission of both the C-Suite Center for Hope and the American Cancer Society: to not only fight cancer but to ensure that no one has to face it alone.
For more information, visit c-suitehope.org. To learn more about the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life of Snohomish County, visit relayforlife.org/snohomishcowa.
