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ANNUAL REPORT
2009-2010
Support for Individuals with
Cancer and Their Families
Sherri’s Message
Dear Friends,
Question: How can BAG IT, a
small organization, have such
a significant impact on cancer
education in Arizona? It takes a lot
of collaboration and dedication! We
are honored to work with over 100
committed medical providers in
Arizona, including cancer centers,
community clinic networks, tribal
health organizations, rural health
centers, well women clinics, and
support groups. We are inspired
by 150 volunteers that offer their
expertise with tasks from knitting
caps for patients or assembling BAG IT bags to putting on fundraising
events. Our small staff is dedicated to being efficient and keeping
costs to a minimum. Our board provides the leadership for growth
and sustainability.
BAG IT is recognized around the state for our efforts to work with
others to improve cancer care. We have joined ranks on several
collaborative grants, work hand in hand with the Arizona Cancer
Coalition, and act as a catalyst to get organizations to work together.
We are very excited about a new national conference that we will
launch in January, 2011. It will offer information and support to those
across the country involved in grass roots community advocacy
such as our own. It is a unique invitation to support those helping
thousands of survivors in their communities. Our program is called
ESCAPE – Encouraging and Sustaining Cancer Advocacy Programs
and Efforts.
This year was not without its challenges. It was a daunting year
financially for many non-profit organizations. BAG IT experienced a
year with smaller-than-expected growth. One reason, we fear, was due
to people not seeking care. We are realizing that some with cancer
are choosing to stop or forego treatment due to their inability to pay
for care. We want to thank all our donors who remain committed to
BAG IT in these difficult times by providing us with the precious funds
needed to continue our mission and work.
We extend special thanks to all our volunteers who donate so much of
their time, energy, and enthusiasm to keep it all going. Some of you
have been with us since the beginning. Your dedication is amazing
and very much appreciated. You are a gift to your communities and
the cancer survivors we all serve.
Wishing you all health and wellness,
Sherri Romanoski
Founder, President, and fortunate cancer survivor
BAG IT Mission
BAG IT reaches out to cancer patients, regardless of gender, age,
or cancer type, at a critical time – right after their diagnosis. The
information is designed to help them cope with their diagnosis, move
more competently through the treatment process, empower them
to become an active member of the treatment team, and transition
to follow up care. Our information is focused on taking people
overwhelmed by a cancer diagnosis to a level of understanding about
their disease.
The helplessness of being a “victim” begins to diminish with this type
of support.
Our slogan for BAG IT is “Fight the Fear.”
Where Can I Find BAG IT?
The answer is: all over Arizona! BAG IT has become a widely-used
education tool for cancer patients in our state. Individuals newly
diagnosed with cancer can now find BAG IT not only in our larger
communities but in many rural locations including tribal health
centers, well women clinics, support groups, resource centers, and
outreach programs. We welcome and thank the over 100 locations
that offer our bags to their patients. It is a great partnership unlike any
in the state.
“I felt a little more in control over
the craziness in my life.”
It’s time for celebration!
The highlights of the year for BAG IT are many but here
are just a few.
• We helped 6,700 individuals and families this year.
• We have delivered over 25,000 BAG IT bags since we
began in 2003.
• BAG IT will initiate a new national conference this year
called ESCAPE – Encouraging and Sustaining Cancer
Advocacy Programs and Efforts.
• BAG IT helped coordinate a community conference
for non-oncology professionals on how to best serve
those with cancer.
• We are planning our first annual Phoenix fundraiser
Ballyhoo for BAG IT.
Want to mail a BAG IT bag to
someone outside the state?
You can order online at www.bagit4u.org. We ask for a $25 donation
to cover costs and shipping.
What’s In The Bag?
BAG IT assists individuals with any type of cancer. It helps them cope with their diagnosis,
navigate through treatment, understand quality of life issues, and transition to follow-up care.
Taking Time*
Living with cancer is hard.
At every point, there may
be a range of feelings. It is
important to accept these
feelings and learn how to live
with them.
Teamwork – The Cancer Patient’s
Guide To Talking With Your
Doctor**
Suggests key questions for doctors,
nurses, and others on the health
care team. Includes a glossary of
cancer words and resources.
When Someone You Love Is
Being Treated For Cancer*
Giving care and support during
this challenging time isn’t easy.
Caregivers need to take care
of themselves, too. Special
sections for helping children
and teens cope.
Life After Cancer Treatment*
Offers practical ways of dealing
with common problems and
guidelines for managing
physical, social, and emotional
health in the search for a “new
normal” after treatment.
* Source: National Cancer Institute | ** Source: National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship
***BAG IT is also available in Spanish.
Eating Hints for Cancer Patients*
Learn about diet needs during and after treatment and how
to cope with side effects that may affect eating.
Taking Part in Cancer Treatment Research Studies*
Clinical trials may be an option for some cancer patients.
Asking the right questions can help with making decisions
about them.
The BAG IT Binder
A specially-designed binder provides:
• Cross-reference guide to BAG IT publications and cancer
topics/issues.
• Helpful tips for getting through treatment and beyond on each
tabbed section.
• Personal information, medical history, and medication forms.
• Calendar to keep track of appointments, side effects, and/or
questions.
• Place to keep copies of all labs, reports, referrals, and
diagnostic testing.
• Paper to log in your questions and comments for office visits
for later reference.
• Summary and follow-up care plan form.
• BAG IT evaluation.
• CD directory of state/county resources.
• Instruction card for creating your own website.
Thinking About Complementary and Alternative Medicine*
In addition to standard medical care, there are other
practices or products that may be helpful such as
meditation, yoga, massage, tai chi, vitamins, or herbs.
Toolbox brochure **
A variety of cancer topics are explored on this free audio
program in a story-telling format. It may be ordered or
accessed online.
8000
Number of Individuals/Families Receiving BAG IT
Growth by Year
7000
6th Annual Take a Hike for BAG IT
6000
5000
4000
3000
2000
1000
0
Events - Communities
Raising Funds
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
BAG IT Delivers –
Over 25,000 helped
Loews Ventana Canyon Resort was the setting for a spectacular morning
of hiking, meditation walks, and a scrumptious brunch on October 18,
2009. About 340 participated in the fun, including cancer survivors,
their family and friends, and community and business supporters. David
Fitzsimmons, cartoonist and cancer survivor, shared a humorous version
of cancer care. Rocky LaRose, our photographer extraordinaire, thrilled us
with yet another fantastic slideshow of photos from past hikes. Raffle and
auction prizes from the spectacular to the unique were snatched up to the
delight of the crowd. Special thanks to
the 70+ volunteers that make this event
happen. Kudos to event coordinator
Susan Weiland. We hope you will join
us for our 7th annual Take a Hike for
BAG IT event on November 7, 2010.
BAG IT has reached over 25,000 individuals with cancer and their
families since we began in 2003. Our goal for 2010-2011 is to reach
more than 8,000!
“I had cancer and chemo one year ago. It has
just returned, and I appreciated so much being
educated about cancer and chemo treatments.
I wasn’t informed before. This has made it so
much easier. Thank you.”
Take a Hike planning and event chair
committee members: Cheri Romanoski,
Sherri Romanoski, Susan Weiland, Sandra
Valenzuela, Julie Butterbrodt, Kathy Lackow,
Karen Hoganson, Kathy Borg
Mah Jongg Tournaments
4th Annual Green Valley Tournament
Joy Hughes has done it again! Her
inspired idea to raise funds in Green
Valley for BAG IT was another huge
success! Joy and friends presented
founder, Sherri Romanoski, with a check
for $1,715 to support our mission.
The Green Valley community has raised an amazing $5,322 to date!
First Annual Tucson Tournament
Judy Kidder and Carolyn Sanger kicked off the first annual event at
Skyline Country Club in Tucson on November 10, 2009. The results were
a room filled with delighted participants who shared lunch and friendly
competition. They raised $1,165!
Wine and Dine for BAG IT
The beautiful Hacienda del Sol Resort
hosted our annual Wine and Dine event
on June 6, 2010. Participation was at
an all-time high. The food was superb,
the wine spectacular, and a carefully
chosen selection of wine-themed
auction prizes graced the celebration.
Susan and Tom Firth chat with
The wine sommelier and chef shared
Anne Meinhausen
tips on pairings and preparation. BAG IT
sends scores of thanks to Matt and Tom Firth for creating an
engaging, enjoyable evening and allowing us to raise $7,500 to
support our mission.
ESCAPE
BAG IT has been a partner in the Life Beyond Cancer retreat for the past
several years. The retreat’s focus is to recruit cancer survivors to go back
to their communities and make a difference. Now, BAG IT is proud to
announce the launch of a new
national conference, ESCAPE
at Miraval. Encouraging and
a program of Bag It
Sustaining Cancer Advocacy
Programs and Efforts is
a unique concept. We will
bring together community
advocates from across the
country to network, learn
new techniques to improve
their programs and services,
and take time to rejuvenate
in a supportive environment
at Miraval Resort. The focus
LBC/ESCAPE staff: Susie Leigh, Janet Olson,
is on building a system of
Rocky LaRose, Ginger Guendelsberger, Sherri
support on a personal and
Romanoski, Susan Weiland. Missing are Julie
Butterbrodt and Joyce Palesek
organizational level. We are
seeking committed sponsors
for this innovative venture. Please contact Sherri at 520-575-9602.
“...I wish I could meet you, to tell you personally
I’m thankful and hug you because I wanted to
give up, but I’m not going to, with BAG IT help.”
Ballyhoo for BAG IT in
Phoenix
A group of BAG IT supporters, the Phoenix Angels, formed last
year in the Phoenix area. Their goal is to expand BAG IT locations
in the Phoenix metropolitan area and also investigate fundraising
opportunities. If you would like to join this fun and energetic group,
contact Sherri at 520-575-9602 or sherri@bagit4u.org. We meet
via a monthly conference call.
The Phoenix Angels, along with many committed community
members of all ages, will kick off the first annual event - Ballyhoo
for BAG IT - in Phoenix on October 2, 2010.
This event will be dedicated to former Angel, Barb Servino, who
fought the tough battle to the end. She will be sorely missed by all.
Survivor Viewpoint
“The BAG IT bag, binder and publications were all valuable tools I used
from the beginning of my diagnosis to everyday afterward. The canvas
bag carried my items I needed for my chemotherapy treatments, the
binder and its contents helped me keep my paperwork and thoughts
organized and the publications in the bag were a constant resource of
information for me. The BAG IT bag has also saved me an enormous
amount of time and energy and I’m sure you are well aware, one does
not have when going through treatment.”
Thanks to our 100+
volunteers
Volunteers contribute thousands of hours to BAG IT. Here are just a few
ways they assist our organization:
- knit caps for chemo patients
- assemble BAG IT binders and bags
- assist with fundraising efforts
- enter data into our database
- ask for community donations
- offer expertise in graphic/media arts
If you are interested in offering your skill to BAG IT, give us a call at
520-575-9602.
Revenues
Revenues
Expenses
Expenses
$9,027
$5,280
$18,130
$50,311
$67,713
$157,060
$63,500
Business Community
Program Services
Foundations
Fundraising
Individuals
General and Administration
Other
Total Revenues $190,551
Total Expenses $181,302
2009-2010 Leadership
Donors
Board of Directors:
Donations of $20,000 and more
Sherri Romanoski, President
Dr. Donald Brooks, Vice-President
Susan Leigh, Secretary
Corey Arvizu, Treasurer
Arizona Oncology
Eisai Pharmaceuticals
Zuckerman Community Outreach Foundation
Staff:
Sherri Romanoski, Executive Director
Susan Weiland, Program Assistant/Fundraising
Donations of $10,000 and more
Ventana Medical Systems
William & Mary Ross Foundation
Wings Like Eagles Foundation
Donations of $5,000 and more
so that I could ask essential questions
Genentech Pharmaceuticals
Martin & Hidegard Gluck
sanofi-aventis
Sundt Foundation
TMC Community Affairs
TMC Foundation
Yuma Regional Foundation
of the medical team. My binder is
Donations of $1,000 and more
now full of reports and procedures
Amgen
Nancy & Corey Arvizu
Aslan Foundation
Boren Family Foundation
Dr. Don and Anne Brooks Canyon Ranch Institute
Caterpillar, Inc.
“Once diagnosed, information was very
important to get past the shock and
fear. BAG IT provided good information
and encouraging correspondence
from friends. It goes with me to each
chemotherapy.”
Donations of $1,000 and more cont’d
Donations of $500 and more
Cochise Surgical
Colon & Rectal Center of AZ
Country Fair White Elephant
Freeport-McMoRan
Heinfeld, Meech & Company
Dr. Grace Hou
Amy & Phillip Knorr
Mah Jongg Ladies-G. Valley
Mah Jongg Ladies-Tucson
Dr. Elizabeth McConnell
Phoenix Oncology Nurses
Precision Toyota
Radiology Ltd., P.L.C.
Joan & Paul Romanoski
Sherri & Joe Romanoski
Safeway
Smart Squirrel
Sonoran Desert Oncology
SWS Electronics
Tucson Glass & Mirror
University Medical Center
Ventana Medical Systems
Wal-Mart Foundation
Susan and Tim Weiland
William Schmidt Foundation
Architectural Openings, Inc.
Arizona Cancer Center
Arizona Women’s Imaging
BMW Tucson
Breast Center of So. AZ
Memory of Linda Carson
Chapman Honda
Dr. & Mrs. Merlin Cohen
DPR Realty
Dobbs Honda
Gadabout
Glaze-Tech Industries
Susie Heintz
Kay Holt
Susan Kettlewell
Loftin Equipment
DM Lovitt Insurance
Dr. Mark McCarthy
Ian and Diane Stuart
UA Foundation
Volvo of Tucson
Watson Chevrolet
Ian and Diane Stuart
Watson Chevrolet
Susan and Tim Weiland
Jim Wood Masonry
Thank you to all our donors who enable us to provide BAG
IT to individuals with cancer and their families around the
state. Due to limited space, we are unable to list all who
have generously made donations. Thank you to everyone!
Anne Hendricks (founding member
of BAG IT), Kathleen Kasper, and
Renate Krompasky
BAG IT
7090 N. Oracle Road 178-184
Tucson, Arizona
520-575-9602
email: sherri@bagit4u.org
website: www.bagit4u.org