UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center

The Oncology Patient and Family Resource Center’s 2007 Holiday Open House

The Oncology Patient and Family Resource Center held its holiday Open House on December 7. More than 150 people enjoyed food and fellowship. Three special library collections established by patients and families in memory and in honor of patients were recognized.

Elsie's Wish...A Library Collection in Memory of Elsie Punch
This collection focuses on issues at the end of life's journey. The children of Elsie Punch were so impressed with the dignified manner their mother left her affairs that they wanted other families to have access to resources that could assist in this difficult process. Elsie Punch was the mother of Lynda Goldberg, the wife of Dr. Rich Goldberg, physician-in-chief of N.C. Cancer Hospital. Lynda and her siblings established the collection.

A Garden in June: The Professional Library Collection of June McDermott
This collection was donated by June's twin sister, Jane Diehl, as a resource in complementary therapies for our oncology health care professionals. June was always so generous in sharing her knowledge of complementary therapies with all.

The Spirit of Champions: A Library Collection in Honor of Karla Werner
This collection focuses on the benefits of exercise, physical activity, meditation, and relaxation to strengthen the body, mind, and spirit. Karla Werner ran her first Boston Marathon three weeks after beginning treatment for breast cancer. Her running partner, Joey Anderson, was so inspired by her determination that he ran 100+ miles around Lake Hinson in 24 hours to raise funds for the Patient and Family Resource Center.

Also recognized was a memorial for Velma Baker (1932-2007) who made over 300 hats for our Hats with Heart Program. Included in the memorial (photo) were pictures of some of her winning hats.

(l-r) Sarah Nahm, mission delivery manager, American Cancer Society South Atlantic Division; Pam Baker, Patient and Family Resource Center; Emmeline Weber, manager, Oncology Support Services/Outreach, Rex Cancer Center; Tina Shaban, Patient and Family Resource Center.

This pediatric quilt was designed and made by Ulla Blab of Elon, NC. For more than five years, she has made quilts and pillows for pediatric cancer patients.

Volunteers Mary Webb, a member of the UNC Lineberger Board of Visitors’ Patient and Family Resource Committee and Martha Rice, mother of breast cancer survivor Mary Seagroves, special events coordinator for UNC Lineberger.

Karla and Frank Werner with the Spirit of Champions Collection.

(l-r) Tina Shaban; Lynda Goldberg and her father-in-law Bernard Goldberg.