PINK COMMUNITY PARTNERS

At Rays of Hope, we are proud to feature the incredible work of the dedicated organizations who have received funding through the Rays of Hope Community Grant Program. These grant recipients are at the forefront of groundbreaking research and provide vital support services for survivors at any point in their journey. Thanks to your generous contributions, these grants help advance programs right here in our community, offering hope and tangible progress for those affected by breast cancer. Keep reading to explore the services they offer and learn how their efforts are making a profound impact right here in Western Massachusetts.

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Rays of Hope Center for Breast Cancer Research

The Rays of Hope Center for Breast Cancer Research (ROH CBCR), established in 2011 by an inital $1.5 million grant, receives yearly funding thanks to the contributions raised through the annual Walk & Run Toward the Cure. The mission of the center is to promote meaningful research in breast disease that will positively impact the lives of those with diseases of the breast and breast cancer. Work supported by the ROH CBCR emphasizes a deeper mechanistic understanding of how obesity, diabetes and environmental exposures interact to alter breast cancer risk and prognosis.

One of the hallmarks of the ROH CBCR is the establishment of the Breast Research Patient Tissue Registry.

Breast Tissue Research Patient Registry

The ROH CBCR utilizes the research infrastructure of the Pioneer Valley Life Science Institute to assist researchers and allow them to focus on advancing specific efforts such as the Breast Tissue Research Patient Registry. This unique resource provides a platform to study diverse individuals and why they differ in response to cancer susceptibility and treatment response. There are over 1400 participants, who have provided information about lifestyle factors, possible chemical exposures and health history. These participants also have the opportunity to allow use of their breast tissue and related clinical information for further research capabilities, which has lead to a database of over 600 tissues.

If you are interested in learning more about the Patient Registry or research completed at the ROH CBCR, visit their blog page or email pvlsi@baystatehealth.org.

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CHD Cancer House of Hope

CHD Cancer House of Hope is committed to providing free access to therapies and wellness programs that bring strength, resilience and hope to those diagnosed with cancer. From counseling to massage therapy, survivors are welcome to participate in anything that comforts and empowers them, no matter where they are in their cancer journey. Cancer House of Hope also offer services to friends, loved ones and caregivers. See below for a complete list of programs and services offered.

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LIVESTRONG at the YMCA - Greater Springfield and Greater Westfield Locations

LIVESTRONG at the Y is a free 12-week exercise program for adult cancer survivors in any stage of their survivorship journey. This program helps build strength, endurance, flexibility and balance to help survivors get stronger, feel better and get back to where they want to be. The Y staff is trained in cancer rehabilitation and will help participants focus on fitness and wellness goals while developing functional abilities and improving confidence and self-esteem. The group setting provides connections with other cancer survivors, which can be equally important as the physical component.

Various sessions are run throughout the year at both the Greater Springfield and Greater Westfield locations, meeting for 1.5 hours, twice a week. A free membership to the Y is provided during the program to encourage survivors to take full advantage of all the Y has to offer. Participants can engage in complementary programs such as yoga, foot reflexology, meditation and nutrition workshops as part of their Y membership.

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Paradise City Dragon Boats

Paradise City Dragon Boat is a team of cancer survivors and supporters paddling on the Connecticut River in Northampton, MA. The team's goals include developing into a top-notch racing team, paddling their way to health and fitness, and building camaraderie and support among team members. Their paddlers are bonded by their will to be strong, powerful athletes, not just cancer survivors. Join Paradise City Dragon Boat, a place where teammates become friends and family. Members honor who you are, at any fitness level and wherever you are on your cancer journey. Be part of a team where survivors exhibit vulnerability, grace and strength in the fight to take back your bodies, your spirits and your power to over cancer.

To learn more about this year-round activity visit their Team Information Page or send them an email at paradisecitydragons@gmail.com!

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PVRC Dragon Rays Dragon Boat Team

Formed from a core group of Breast Cancer Survivors, the Pioneer Valley Riverfront Club's Dragon Rays dragon boat team has grown to embrace paddlers from all walks of life. Dragon boating offers a fun, challenging, and inclusive way to improve physical fitness, mental health, and social connections, while also providing a great way to enjoy nature and work as part of a team. Whether you're looking to improve your physical strength, relieve stress, or make new friends, the Springfield Dragon Rays dragon boat team has something to offer! This year-round activity combines strength, flexibility and paddle focused workouts, either indoors or on the water, to create a fun team environment that focuses on improving your overall health. While the team is open to all, breast cancer survivors are able to paddle at no cost, thanks to the grant awarded by Rays of Hope.

To learn more about the team, contact the Pioneer Valley Riverfront Club at (413) 736-1322 or dragonrays@pvriverfront.org.

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