Empowering Cancer Patients to Thrive

Thrivewell Divas

Few words in life are as devastating as “you have cancer,” yet tens of thousands San Antonians hear these words every year. For most of them, after the shock wears off, the next step involves treatments beginning, partnerships with doctors formed, and a resolute commitment to recovery as the end goal. Yet for thousands of patients, treatment cannot begin because there is not enough money for treatment, and too many obstacles stand in the way of getting to all of the appointments that come along with a diagnosis. That’s where local non-profit ThriveWell Cancer Foundation comes in.

Easing the Burden on Those Battling Cancer

With inspirational local San Antonio women, Dr. Amy Lang, Medical Oncologist, and ThriveWell Co-Founder, and Erin Ercoline, Executive Director, at the helm, in addition to a strong and engaged Board of Directors, ThriveWell eases the burden on adult cancer patients during their cancer journey. They offer three much-needed programs (for free) to those in San Antonio and the surrounding areas:

Patient Assistance – ThriveWell’s Patient Assistance program provides patients with financial assistance intended to help offset the costs associated with their medical care, as well as providing treatment-related transportation. In 2019 ThriveWell provided $900,000 in financial and transportation support to more than 800 cancer patients through the program.

Diva&Dude – The Diva&Dude program provides free exercise, nutrition, and wellness classes to cancer patients and survivors. This unique program was developed because research shows that cancer patients who follow specific diet and exercise guidelines can significantly reduce their risk of recurrence.

Research – ThriveWell funds novel, cutting-edge research being conducted right here in San Antonio. The innovative projects funded have the potential to help change the course for those currently fighting a cancer diagnosis and for those who will face one in the future.

Together We Can Make a Difference

 With many events throughout the year, ThriveWell hosts an impactful annual luncheon every spring. At last year’s luncheon ThriveWell supporter and sponsor, Gregg Popovich, Head Coach, and President of the San Antonio Spurs attended, in addition to many leading community members, clinicians, cancer survivors, and San Antonio business leaders. Coach Popovich surprised the crowd with a generous $100,000 matching gift to support ThriveWell’s programs.

 ThriveWell also hosts the popular annual Healing Hearts Gala, started by the late KABB FOX 29 News Anchor Karen Martinez. And, recently ThriveWell received a one million dollar gift to the Susan and Samantha Patient Assistance Fund at ThriveWell through the immense generosity of Kym Rapier and the George & Kym Rapier Family Foundation.

By Kristina Aderhold