By Jeff Pitcel, Gilda’s Club Board of Directors and Red Door Society member
Hello, everyone. I’m Jeff, and today I want to share something deeply personal about my involvement with Gilda’s Club Wisconsin. As someone who’s been touched by cancer in my own family, I’ve found a profound sense of purpose in supporting this incredible organization. Whether you’re a survivor, a caregiver, or just someone who knows how cancer can upend lives, I hope my story resonates and inspires you to get involved.
My “Why”: A Family’s Battle with Breast Cancer
My connection to Gilda’s Club starts with a story that’s all too familiar for many families. When I was a sophomore in high school, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. This was back in the day when resources for patients and their loved ones were scarce—there was no such thing as Gilda’s Club to provide that crucial emotional and social support.
Thankfully, my mom is a fighter. She’s now celebrating over 42 years of survivorship, alive and well. But during those early days, it was tough. She was “gone” for long stretches—surgeries, treatments, hospital stays—that left our family feeling isolated. My father wasn’t the greatest at communicating, so my brother and I often felt like we were stumbling in the dark, unsure of what was happening or how to cope.
To make matters worse, Mom was a well-known teacher in our school district, which meant our family’s struggle wasn’t private. I still remember the cruel notes slipped into our lockers, mocking her with horrible and cruel comments, I can only imagine what kids go through today with the advent of social media. It was a painful reminder of how cancer doesn’t just affect the patient; it ripples through everyone around them, especially kids who are trying to navigate their own world.
During that time, I probably found some escape watching Gilda Radner on Saturday Night Live—little did I know that her legacy would one day become a part of my life.
How I Got Involved: From Giving Back to Board Member
Fast forward to more recent years. After leaving my previous job and striking out on my own, I felt a strong pull to give back to the community. Cancer had left its mark on me, and I wanted to help others avoid the isolation my family experienced.
That’s when my wife’s best friend entered the picture. She’s a breast cancer survivor herself, and during her treatment and recovery, she and her family leaned heavily on Gilda’s Club. They found solace in the programs, the community, and the support that helped them through the toughest times. She’s stayed involved as an ambassador for Gilda’s Club Wisconsin, and she introduced me to Lannia Stenz, the Executive Director.
I reached out, asking how I could contribute. It started small—with some team leadership training and discussions—but it quickly grew. Before I knew it, I was invited to join the board in 2024. It’s been an honor to serve ever since, and it’s given me a front-row seat to the life-changing work Gilda’s does.
The Benefits of Gilda’s Club: Support That Touches Lives
As a board member, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible benefits Gilda’s Club provides to those affected by cancer—not just patients, but families, friends, and caregivers too. Named after the legendary comedian Gilda Radner, who battled ovarian cancer, the club offers a free, welcoming space where people can connect, learn, and heal together.
From support groups and educational workshops to wellness activities like yoga and art therapy, Gilda’s creates a community where no one has to face cancer alone. I’ve seen families bond over shared experiences, kids find ways to express their fears through creative outlets, and survivors celebrate milestones in a judgment-free environment. It’s about more than medical treatment; it’s about emotional resilience, social connections, and practical resources that make the journey a little less daunting.
In Madison and across Wisconsin, Gilda’s Club is a beacon of hope, ensuring that everyone impacted by cancer has access to these vital services at no cost.
Why Get Involved: We All Have a Role to Play
We all know someone affected by cancer—whether it’s a family member, friend, or colleague. The statistics are staggering, but so is our collective power to make a difference. Getting involved with Gilda’s Club doesn’t have to mean a big financial commitment. There are so many ways to contribute your time and energy.
Volunteer at one of their signature events, help prepare meals for Tuesday Family Nights, or simply spread the word about their programs. Every act of kindness builds a stronger support network for those who need it most. For me, it’s been rewarding beyond words, it’s turned my family’s past pain into a force for good.
If you’re in Wisconsin or beyond, I encourage you to check out Gilda’s Club Wisconsin. Visit their website, attend an event, or reach out to learn more. Together, we can ensure no one faces cancer alone.
Thanks for reading. What’s your story? I’d love to hear how cancer has touched your life and how you’re giving back.
-Jeff
