Imerman Angels

Meet one of our panelists! Dr. Deborah Cragun is an Associate Professor at the University of South Florida and the Founding Director of the only Genetic Counseling Graduate Program in the state of Florida. She earned her Master's degree in Medical Genetics from the University of Cincinnati and subsequently practiced as a genetic counselor in pediatric, prenatal and cancer specialties. After earning a PhD in Public Health from the University of South Florida, she completed a postdoctoral research fellowship at Moffitt Cancer Center and has worked on grants from both the National Cancer Institute and the National Human Genome Research Institute.

Register today for our FREE webinar "Genes & Cancer: An Overview" on Wednesday, September 25 at 6pm CT to hear more from Dr. Cragun about this important topic. https://forms.gle/erVBmw3Zs87iAFHB7

We're thrilled to officially welcome Nimesh Jhaveri, R.Ph., as Chair of our Board of Directors!

Nimesh and his family are long-time supporters of Imerman Angels and he's been an instrumental member of the Board's Executive Team for the past two years. Professionally, Nimesh is Executive Vice President and Chief Impact Officer for McKesson Corporation and is responsible for McKesson’s efforts across Inclusion and Belonging, Employee Resource Groups, Health Equity, Impact Innovation and Activation, Environmental Responsibility, Impact Strategy and Operations and the McKesson Foundation.

We'd like to thank Dr. Caralynn Collens for serving as Chair for the previous two years. Under Caralynn's leadership, Imerman Angels made huge strides forward in operations and efficiencies, which have led us to the next phase of our growth. Thank you Caralynn and welcome Nimesh!

Lived Experience: The knowledge and understanding that someone gains from their own life experiences, choices and options. In peer-to-peer cancer support, the lived experience can help inform patient outcomes and also improve some psychosocial elements of cancer, including loneliness and isolation. Interested in sharing your experiences with cancer with someone newly diagnosed or caring for a loved one? Register to become a Mentor Angel at imermanangels.org/give-support/

Hot off the presses! Check out our Summer 2024 Cancer Resource Guide. The science of cancer has come a long way in just the last few years, and unlocking the genetic and hereditary components of an individual's makeup has become an invaluable tool for not only treating cancer, but also preventing cancer. This FREE Guide is intended to provide some perspective and resources as you and your loved ones learn more about the genetic makeup of cancer. Download here: https://loom.ly/Vpp-P_4

We are honored to be featured in this article by CURE Today. Check it out: https://www.curetoday.com/view/finding-my-cancer-community-was-a-serendipitous-experience

AliveAndKickn is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by Lynch syndrome, a genetic condition that increases the risk of certain cancers, primarily colon and endometrial. The organization focuses on research, education and screening to promote early detection and effective management of Lynch syndrome-associated cancers. They offer resources such as genetic testing information, patient support, educational videos and advocacy efforts; aiming to raise awareness and provide support to those impacted by this hereditary condition. Learn more: https://loom.ly/-sSAvKY

Cancer is confusing enough, but it's even more important NOW to understand the influence that genes and family history play on a cancer diagnosis. Join Imerman Angels and an expert panel on Wednesday, September 25 for a conversation about the role of genetics in cancer, including, but not limited to:

• What is genetic testing?
• What is cascade testing?
• How do you request a test and from whom?
• What are the biomarkers of tumors?

Our Community Events Series' aim is for individuals to be proactive and feel empowered to research more about you and your loved ones' health. This virtual presentation is FREE to join, but you must register by visiting: https://forms.gle/iXmusyk9CujAPG7PA

By sharing tools, information and services within our community, we can work to demystify treatment, caregiving, and recovery. Visit our dedicated hub designed to provide comprehensive support and valuable information to individuals affected by cancer, their families and caregivers. https://loom.ly/sde7TA0

"I was connected with a woman who has the same genetic condition called Lynch syndrome. Being matched brought up many vivid memories of the fear, anxiety and uncertainty that comes along with discovering you have a cancer syndrome. We were able to connect and share stories. I wish I had known about Imerman Angels when I was newly diagnosed, but even more, I'm grateful to be a sounding board for anyone who is feeling alone with Lynch syndrome. Not many people know the dread of having lifelong scans, tests and procedures to avoid cancer; but knowledge of the syndrome can save your life. Thank you for connecting us all."

– Tara K., Mentor Angel, Lynch syndrome

Wishing you all a Happy Fourth! 🇺🇸 Imerman Angels' offices will be closed on Thursday and Friday for Independence Day. We will be back in the office on Monday, July 8.

A special thank you to the 2024 Brunch Run 5k & Walk's highest fundraiser team, Glickstrong! We appreciate your support tremendously. 💙

So many incredible memories from the 2024 Brunch Run! We are so grateful to everyone who participated in making this an unforgettable day.

Thank you to all of our participants, sponsors, donors + friends who joined us Saturday for our 10th Annual Brunch Run 5K & Walk.

We're pleased to report we surpassed ALL of our goals and raised more than $325,000 to help power our mission! We are so appreciative of your support, smiles and stories and cannot wait to do it again next year!

We can’t wait to see everyone at the 10th annual Brunch Run today! Set up is almost complete, thanks to an amazing crew.

We're seeing record numbers of participation and donations for our 10th Annual Imerman Angels Brunch Run 5k & Walk and time is running out for you to join in on the fun! As of today, this event has raised more than $270,000 to amplify our mission and spread awareness to support all of those affected by cancer. We are expecting this event to SELL OUT, so don't delay. Register ASAP at www.brunchrun5k.com. Use promo code "SOCIAL24" to receive a special $5 discount.

I'm supporting Imerman Angels! Providing comfort and understanding for cancer fighters, survivors, previvors and caregivers.

What IS a Cancerversary? A Cancerversary is the anniversary of a significant date in a cancer patient's journey. This date can vary depending on the individual's experience and what they consider most meaningful. It is often a time for reflection, celebration, and acknowledgment of the challenges faced and overcome.

June is National Cancer Survivors Month, and June 2nd is National Cancer Survivors Day. We are honored to celebrate our incredible cancer community today and all month long. 💙🤝

If you or someone in your life has been affected by cancer, please tag them (or yourself!) in the comments below with a loving acknowledgment! You are seen, you are heard, and you are so very loved.

Happy Friday! If you're in Chicago for , make sure to stop by booth 13001 and say hello to our wonderful team, including Jackie Herigodt (pictured), our Director of Partnerships and Engagement. We'll be representing all weekend... so no one faces cancer alone.

Whether helping runners navigate the path or helping organize race-day lines, there are plenty of opportunities for individuals and groups to lend a helping hand. Church groups. School groups. Work groups. Alumni associations. We can find a role for anyone😎😎😎😎 Just click below to sign up and we'll be in touch!

https://forms.gle/MXveW6kGX4KHxGw28

New this year! Can't make it to Chicago for this year's Brunch Run, but want to promote Imerman Angels' mission and vision? Or want to make sure your team looks uniform on Race Day? Purchase a commemorative t-shirt from our partners at Cloztalk and help raise awareness to support cancer fighters, survivors, previvors and caregivers. Orders placed prior to Friday, May 31 will have their merch shipped directly to their mailboxes prior to the Brunch Run on June 15. Choose black or grey upon checkout. Wear because you care!!

https://loom.ly/_-65F_A

CLOZTALK

2024 Brunch Run Unisex T-Shirt This special edition t-shirt is only available for a limited time, until May 31! This item ships on Friday each week, and shipping is included if it's the only item in your cart. Super soft fabric, a contemporary fit, and a unique artistic design make this a truly one-of-a-kind t-shirt! Made of 60%....

One thing is certain about cancer: it creates uncertainty. Join us for a live panel discussion about the uncertainties of cancer on Tuesday, May 21 at 6 pm CT. This conversation will cover anxieties dealing with genetic mutations, awaiting a cancer diagnosis and taking care of a loved one. This FREE event will also provide some useful tips, including mindfulness and journaling, to help control cancer anxiety for those going through the cancer experience. We look forward to this opportunity to provide comfort, understanding, support and community!

To register: https://forms.gle/wxXnqYLvQxowGCC8A

Coping With The Uncertainties of Cancer Event Date & Time: Tuesday, May 21 at 6:00p CT Event Link: Will be made available upon registration + will be emailed Contact Us: [email protected] Join our live panel Tuesday, May 21 at 6pm CT to discuss the uncertainties that come along when being diagnosed with cancer, awaiting a cancer diag...

The weather is heating up... and so is registration for the 10th Annual Imerman Angels Brunch Run 5K & Walk taking place Saturday, June 15 at Montrose Harbor! Register today for one of Chicagoland's most unique 5ks. All participants receive entry to the event, a delicious brunch from our partners at Blue Plate Catering, a mimosa + beer, PLUS exclusive Imerman Angels SWAG.

Build a team, bring your friends + family and enjoy an inspirational morning on the beautiful lakefront path. Best of all, 100% of all proceeds benefit Imerman Angels' mission. We run, walk and brunch SO NO ONE FACES CANCER ALONE: Learn more and register at brunchrun5k.com.

I'm supporting Imerman Angels! Providing comfort and understanding for cancer fighters, survivors, previvors and caregivers.

“I am very humbled to be part of this program. It was a personal goal of mine to give back - as people were there for me when I was just starting my journey. I wanted to be there for someone too, even if just in a small way, and help make their day-to-day life easier.” - Linda W., Mentor Angel

What IS a previvor? You may have seen this term pop up in the last few years as it becomes an area of focus in cancer care. A previvor is someone who has an elevated predisposition to being diagnosed with cancer due to a risk running through their family. Many previvors experience an increased level of anxiety and struggle as they navigate the medical system.

Like fighters and caregivers, Imerman Angels matches cancer previvors to other previvors for important one-on-one support. Visit our website for more information!

We're happy to introduce Shane Doherty as our newest Cancer Support Specialist! Shane started in March and has been hard at work learning the ins/outs of what makes Imerman Angels such a special organization. A New Jersey native and former professional soccer player (a story for another post), Shane has been personally touched by cancer and is passionate about turning his experience into a positive in other people's lives.

"I try to practice active listening with everyone in my life. So often, it's easy to fall into saying words and phrases that we might think are helpful but are actually so damaging. Often, the best response isn't a clever saying - it's the willingness to sit with someone in their discomfort and pain and give them time to stay there and feel all of the grief of the situation." - Shane

We're thrilled to share our latest, free, Cancer Resource Guide. Cancer uncertainty comes in many forms - scan/test anxiety, fear of recurrence, financial and professional implications, etc. This Guide is intended to provide some perspective and resources as you and your loved ones deal with the uncertainties of cancer. This is a growing topic in the cancer community and we'll be presenting more tips and resources in the coming weeks, so stay tuned! https://loom.ly/hUJQW30

Cancer Resource Guide: 2024.2/Spring | Imerman Angels The Spring 2024 edition presents events and resources dealing with the uncertainties of cancer.

Happy Volunteer Week! We appreciate all of our Mentor Angels, Ambassadors and volunteers - this organization would simply not exist without all of your dedication and hard work! If you'd like to learn more about how YOU can get involved in the work IA does on a daily basis, visit imermanangels.org/get-involved

Spring cleaning alert! We spent some time today going through and organizing some old Team IA t-shirts - recognize anything from YOUR closet??