For Sandy and John Maybury, their family means everything. As proud parents and grandparents, the legacy they have established is one that fulfills them and brings so much joy to their lives. 

This year, the Maybury family will expand – by about 20,000 people – as they step into their roles as 2024-25 Rays of Hope Co-Chairs. 

The Mayburys have been long-time supporters of Rays of Hope. Sandy first started walking 24 years ago to support her best friend after she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and the couple has continued their support and dedication through walking, sponsorship, and donating proceeds to Rays of Hope from their annual Maybury Material Handling Car Show, held at their business in East Longmeadow, Mass. In addition to showing up at a past Rays of Hope event on a pink moped, John also shows his support on the Baystate Health Foundation Board of Trustees, helping guide the important fundraising initiatives at Baystate Health, including Rays of Hope. 

Deepening a Connection 

Their relationship to Rays of Hope took on a new meaning recently when Sandy was diagnosed with breast cancer. With the strong support of John and her family behind her, Sandy began treatment at the D’Amour Center for Cancer Care. 

 “The word I would use to describe my journey with Baystate Health has been ‘peaceful.’ There have been tears and fear, but everyone has always made me feel safe and taken care of—from my surgeon, my oncologist, their teams, those who welcomed me with each visit, my nurses, and those who brought me chocolate pudding and ginger ale during each treatment,” shared Sandy. “I couldn’t have made it through without each and every one of them and they each hold a special place in my heart.” 

Spreading Rays of Hope 

Sandy has also leaned on support from the Rays of Hope community. 

“I have made many friends through Rays of Hope, and I’m blessed to be part of this organization,” said Sandy. “There are so many warriors out there that have either gone through this journey, lost loved ones, or are going through the journey now that I hope I can be there for.” 

For John, spreading the word of Rays of Hope and its community are important in his role as Co-chair. 

“My experience at the Rays of Hope events has been both emotional and enjoyable,” shared John. “The overwhelming sense of community that comes together to support the individuals is impressive. I feel Rays of Hope is making a positive impact to foster hope and resilience in the lives of those impacted by breast cancer. I want to bring others in, especially local businesses, to help support this work.” 

Spreading the word is important to educating everyone about breast cancer and recruiting them to participate in the fight. Only by raising money can the research, programming and care that has become synonymous with Rays of Hope continue. 

“To me, Rays of Hope is family, love, strength, and compassion,” shared Sandy. “I want to bring that feeling of hope to others.”