Equal Hope nurse navigator Retha Cooper was honored recently at the organization’s 16th Annual “Celebrating Life” Gala (Photo Credit: Megan Christina).
Equal Hope, the non-profit dedicated to eliminating racial disparities in the treatment of breast cancer, cervical cancer and other cancers, raised $500,000 at its 16th Annual “Celebrating Life” Gala, held recently at The Geraghty.
The total amount included $95,000 generated during the paddle raise auction, the most ever for the event, to support Equal Hope’s comprehensive programs, including research, quality assessment, advocacy, education, and patient navigation.
The event paid tribute to two champions for health equity — the University of Illinois Cancer Center and Dr. Yamilé Molina — for unwavering dedication to promoting health equity and improving healthcare access for all. Additionally, Pfizer was recognized as the Corporate Champion for Health Equity for its substantial contributions to healthcare initiatives that reduce disparities.
Equal Hope Executive Director Dr. Paris Thomas said, “We are thrilled to celebrate the remarkable work of the University of Illinois Cancer Center and Dr. Yamilé Molina. Their commitment to health equity perfectly aligns with our mission to save lives by eliminating health inequities. We are also grateful to Pfizer for their continued support and partnership in this vital cause.”
Dr. Yamilé Molina, left, with Equal Hope Executive Director Dr. Paris Thomas, was honored as a Champion for Health Equity recently at the organization’s 16th Annual “Celebrating Life” Gala (Photo Credit: Melanie Brown).
A special highlight of the evening was the recognition of Retha Cooper, a dedicated nurse navigator who has been instrumental in navigating women from diagnostic screenings to cancer treatment. This year, Cooper will retire from Equal Hope, having been recently diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 79.
Her tireless work and personal resilience were honored at the gala, underscoring the profound impact of Equal Hope’s programs on both patients and staff.
“We are deeply moved by the dedication and courage of Retha Cooper, whose work has touched countless lives,” Thomas said.
Equal Hope is making a difference by addressing barriers women of color face when it comes to screening and treating cancer including lack of transportation to medical centers, lack of insurance, scheduling conflicts with jobs, concerns being ignored by physicians and the lack of consistent quality care depending on where patients go for care.
Marianne Gandee, VP, Oncology Patient Solutions and Alliances at Pfizer, center, accepted the Corporate Champion for Health Equity Award on behalf of the company at Equal Hope’s 16th Annual “Celebrating Life” Gala (Photo Credit: Melanie Brown).
In 2023, Equal Hope’s outreach efforts reached more than 475,844 individuals, nearly 20% of Chicago’s population. Initiatives included distributing over 106,320 flyers throughout Cook and Lake counties, providing over 513 rides to health screenings, scheduling 3,117 appointments, and establishing primary care for 322 individuals through the community health team.
For more information on Equal Hope’s initiatives or to donate, please visit equalhope.org.
About Post Author
