DAVENPORT, Iowa — Gilda's Club Quad Cities is celebrating its 25th anniversary this month. The nonprofit offers emotional support to cancer patient and their families free of charge. It's funded by grants, donations and community fundraisers.
"I think our community really has supported us," program director Kelsey Allen said. 'We have a very strong community and there is so much cancer in the Quad Cities, we're just very fortunate to have this resource."
Gilda's Club prides itself on providing a homey feel to its members. They offer social workers and therapy groups among other resources. "We really focus on the social and emotional piece of the cancer journey," Allen said.
Glenda Ziolkowski's husband in his eighth year of battling neuroendocrine cancer. They joined Gilda's Club a month after his diagnosis.
'There's a lot of tears shed," Ziolkowski said. "They have the grief group after your loved one passes away. My husband is on almost his final stages, so then I will join the group which will help tremendously."
Kelsey Allen highlighted the importance of of not only supporting the cancer patient but their loved ones as well.
"I think a lot of times the caregiver gets left out slightly from the equation, and a lot of times they're carrying a lot of the stress that the patient is carrying," Allen said.
Gilda's Club was founded by actress and comedian Gilda Radner, who died of ovarian cancer in 1989.
There are two Gilda's Club locations in the quad cities. One is at Genesis West hospital in Davenport, and the other is at Unity Point Trinity in Moline. On Tuesday, Dec. 5th, the organization will have its annual blessing tree fundraiser at Be The Light park in Bettendorf. All are welcome to attend the free event that includes cookies, conversation and carols.