Seeking Stars and Angels to Honor at Winter Benefit

Nylen Cancer Center Seeking Star and Angel NominationsThe June E. Nylen Cancer Center is seeking nominations for Stars and Angels extraordinary persons with cancer and those who care for them that make a difference in the lives of persons with cancer.Recipients of the awards will be honored at the cancer center's annual Winter Benefit on Saturday, March 10 at Stoney Creek Inn. The evening’s theme is “Fight Like the Irish - Stars and Angels Among Us”.The Star award recognizes cancer patients with courage and grace that encourage and support fellow patients and survivors, according to Denise Wilson, winter benefit co-chairperson and volunteer on the winter benefit committee. The Angel award recognizes a family member, caregiver, volunteer, medical professional or anyone who has provided hope and inspiration to a person with cancer."Many of us know courageous patients who find the inner strength to encourage others," says Deb Smith, winter benefit co-chairperson. "They embrace the opportunity to help other patients with the challenge of treatment and survival. We also want to recognize extraordinary people who touch the lives of cancer patients in very special ways. We want to honor their kindness, generosity, their strength."Last year the June E. Nylen Cancer Center honored Robin Koster and Vicki and Rich Caldwell at the Star and Angel Winter Benefit.Robin Koster of Newell, Iowa was nominated by her nursing co-workers to receive the Star award. Her co-workers unanimously stated that as a cancer patient and a cancer nurse she is a source of strength and inspiration and has the unique ability to offer her professional knowledge and personal experience to each and every patient. As a nurse, wife and mother of five she has not let cancer slow her down and has not missed a day of work due to her illness. She is quick to point out the good and remind us all to enjoy life, not just get through it. Her courage, caring attitude, and smile are star qualities that have helped so many.The Angel award went to Vicki and Rich Caldwell of Sioux City. They were nominated by Dianne Campbell and Jeanette Zortman who said the Caldwell’s are quick to help in any way they can. When they see a need they don’t just sit and ignore it, they are quick to offer love, support, a ride or whatever it takes to make a difference. Zortman and Campbell went on to say that their “friends have both battled cancer themselves but are such role models for so many with their strength and ability to be so strong for each other and others who fight this non-discriminating disease.” In addition to caring for various friends fighting cancer they are both wonderful volunteers and are quietly working their magic helping those who need a hand, giving very selflessly and with an infinite amount of love.All nominees receive a gift and will be recognized at the award ceremony. Star and Angel nomination forms are available at the cancer center, by calling Pat Hubbard at 712.252.9352 or by email hubbardp@jencc.com or log onto www.nylencancercenter.com. Nominations are due by January 31, 2012.