The Cancer Advisory Council was formed in 2006 by nineteen community volunteers with a common vision to help shape the future of cancer care in our community. This group:
- Played an instrumental role in development and planning of the annual cancer fundraiser, Best of Tahoe Chefs
- Established and implemented a business advisory model for feedback to local cancer programs
- Performed community outreach informing thousands of community residents, clubs, businesses and corporations and schools about the quality cancer services available locally
- Benchmarked 12 regional cancer centers for best practices in California and Montana
- Provided research and feedback in collaboration with staff for innovative psychosocial oncology services
- Increased community awareness with patient and community advocacy for design of a new cancer center
- Worked with Tahoe Forest Health System Foundation staff as well as Tahoe Forest District Board of Directors on projects related to cancer care locally
After the successful opening of the Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center in 2012, several founding members moved to stewardship, innovation and oversight. This group ensures the endowment funds continue to provide necessary support to Patient and Family Programs, sustainability for the latest oncology equipment and top talent in cancer care, as well as the general fund for programs that support services within the Cancer Center.
Cancer Advisory Council members
- Gary Boxeth
- Patti Boxeth
- Schatzi Boyd
- Kirk Ditterich
- Alison Elder
- Valerie Forte
- Ernie Grossman
- Pam Hobday
- Tom Hobday
- Carey Hood
- Barbara Perlman-Whyman
- Paige Thomason
- Trinkie Watson
- Janet Zipser Zipkin
