The word ‘champion’ might bring to mind the latest major sporting title, but for the American Cancer Society, the word has a much larger meaning. For more than 100 years, the nonprofit has led the fight to rid the world of cancer by raising public awareness, funding life-saving research and spreading important information about prevention. St. Louisans have the opportunity to contribute to the cause by attending the annual Champions of Hope gala.
The event has raised more than $2.5 million to support the American Cancer Society since it began in 2016. It was started by the CEOs Against Cancer St. Louis chapter, a group of executives who partner with the nonprofit to promote workplace wellness and invest in the fight against cancer. “Members are very supportive of our mission, both financially and through the work they are doing with their companies,” says Christine Winter, director of communication for the local chapter of the American Cancer Society. Each year, a member from the chapter serves as gala chair. “It’s really a great event, and we’re lucky to have the support of these executives and their companies,” Winter says.
This year, event chairs are Michael Neidorff of Centene and his wife, Noémi, and the presenting sponsor is Centene Charitable Foundation. The event is Nov. 3 at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Chesterfield, and guests can expect an elegant evening that takes advantage of the venue’s grand ballroom and outdoor tent. In keeping with the theme, Scott Hamilton has been invited to speak. “The Olympic figure skater is not only a champion on the ice, but also in his own battle with cancer,” explains Kathy Fritz, senior development manager. Entertainment also includes renowned speed painter Tim Decker, The Charles Glenn Group, live and silent auctions, cocktails and dinner. In a unique twist, guests are encouraged to add a pop of color to their black-tie attire. “We want people to wear the color representing the type of cancer awareness they support or have been impacted by,” Fritz explains.
Gala guests will have the opportunity to raise their paddles in direct support of one important American Cancer Society initiative: Hope Lodge. The nationwide program provides free lodging for cancer patients and their caregivers in St. Louis and 31 other locations near major cancer centers and hospitals. Anyone who needs treatment in St. Louis and lives 40 miles or more outside the city can stay at the local lodge with a caregiver free of charge. According to Winter, stays can range anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the treatment patients are receiving. In 2017 alone, it served more than 1,300 people, giving them access to the local community of medical experts and cancer research. “Hope Lodge serves as a bridge between patients and the awesome care St. Louis can provide,” Winter says.
Pamela Schlemmer knows the benefits of Hope Lodge first hand. She stayed at the St. Louis location with her husband, Roger, while she was receiving cancer treatment, and Roger also stayed with their daughter at the lodge in Kansas City. For Pamela’s care, the couple traveled 214 miles from their home in Springfield, Missouri, and saved more than $8,000 in hotel costs over their 51-night stay. “Hope Lodge is a miracle because without it, some people would not be able to afford to travel to St. Louis to receive treatment,” she says.
Last year, Hope Lodge saved cancer patients and their families an estimated $1.5 million in hotel expenses. But the benefits aren’t only fiscal. “Hope Lodge is more than just a building,” Winter notes. “It provides a home away from home for cancer patients and their caregivers, eliminating many emotional and financial concerns and allowing patients to focus on getting well.” She says the lodge provides a natural support system, including spaces for guests to socialize and spend time together outside their rooms.
Support is what Sonya Trantham found when she stayed at the lodge as a caregiver for her husband, Barry. The Tranthams are from Walnut Grove, Missouri, and had to travel 231 miles for Barry’s treatment. They saved more than $7,000 in hotel costs, and Sonya was moved by the lasting connections they made with other guests. “Hope Lodge is more than just a place to stay during your cancer treatments,” she says. “It’s a place where you meet people that are going through the same journey as you. It’s a place to relate to fellow caregivers and build friendships that last a lifetime.”
The American Cancer Society attacks cancer from every angle by funding research, sharing expert information, supporting patients and spreading awareness about prevention. Its third annual Champions of Hope Gala is Nov. 3 at the Doubletree by Hilton in Chesterfield. Pictured on the cover: Event chairs Noemi and Michael Neidorff outside Hope Lodge. For more information about the gala, call Kathy Fritz at 314.286.8147 or visit championshopegala.org.
Cover design by Allie Bronsky
Cover photo by Colin Miller of Strauss Peyton Photography
Pictured above: Hope Lodge guests Barry and Sonya Trantham and Pamela and Roger Schlemmer.
