The first-ever Summer Sizzler event helped the Cancer Support Center spread the word that the center is much more than a physical space.
Verna Robinzine, a 10-year breast cancer survivor refers to the CSC as a dynamic force that brings people together. CSC’s role as a catalyst “has inspired and motivated my family and empowered us with hope when I didn’t have any answers.”
Participants enjoyed food and ice cream treats, games, music from a DJ and kids had fun in a bounce house at the vibrant gathering of people at the Summer Sizzler on July 27 at CSC’s Homewood headquarters at 2028 Elm Road. They also stopped by informational booths manned by healthcare providers.
“I hope this tells the community before (the CSC’s) Walk of Hope, and before cancer knocks on the door, and shows how vital the Cancer Support Center is for the community, not just a building, but a place of hope and healing,” Robinzine added.
“The overwhelming success of this event is a testament to our community’s active role in supporting us,” said Darnesha Evans, CSC’s community outreach coordinator. “The community’s interest in our mission was clearly demonstrated by the large turnout and we’re thrilled that many community members, who are integral to our mission, came to learn more about our goals.”
Sarah Costanzo and Rosemary Reddice, both 12-year breast cancer survivors, are no strangers to CSC. They hope events like the Summer Sizzler spread the word for community members everywhere.
“It’s about supporting one another,” Reddice said. “Just because you’re going through a diagnosis doesn’t mean you need to be alone. CSC provides belief, hope, strength, network and most importantly, a family.”
Costanzo added, “I’ve never met Rosemary; I didn’t need to. We relate to one another because of our cancer journey; you develop a new family. If I didn’t have these ladies, honest to God, I don’t think I could be telling you this today.”
UChicago Medicine at Ingalls Memorial and Franciscan Health Care were among the healthcare providers with booths at the event. They played a crucial role in providing resources and screening information to attendees, demonstrating the collaborative effort in supporting cancer patients and survivors. These healthcare providers offered free screenings, distributed educational materials, and provided information about their services.
CSC’s Executive Director Kristen Kolwelter emphasized the atmosphere of the center’s goals: “We want people to come in and feel comfortable; cancer is terrifying,” Kolwelter said. “Let’s create a place where people feel comfortable, relaxed, and happy being in.”
The center recently underwent some renovations and has proudly portrayed a “home away from home” vibe, Kolwelter said. The center has yoga rooms, a wig room, massages, and other programming and services to help aid those affected or impacted by cancer. Its services include counseling, support groups, educational workshops, and financial assistance programs.
Kowelter said the Summer Sizzler was a way for the Cancer Support Center “to introduce ourselves within the community, but also for the opportunity to create awareness and resources for anybody who’s facing cancer. That goes for family members/caregivers, friends. There are no limits to helping those impacted by cancer. We welcome you to the community and know we are here.”
With locations in the South Suburbs in Mokena and Homewood, Robinzine emphasized, “The CSC is here for the survivors, for the fighters, for the thrivers and caregivers.”
She calls it “a secret weapon and a hidden gem of the South Suburbs. Very few communities have a CSC. It will help anyone and everyone as they fight this battle. People will learn and know they’re not alone. You do not fight cancer alone when you find a CSC.”
For more information on CSC, visit the website or in person at 2028 Elm Road for further information or consultation.
