Monthly Support for Cancer Patients from a Patient

In 2021, more than 2,300 cancer patients who lacked the resources to travel to their appointments at GBMC were provided with free transportation. This service was made possible by donors like Eugenia Starghill. Starghill is a recurring gift donor to GBMC’s Sandra and Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute, and has contributed to its array of programs, including Oncology Support Services.

A breast cancer survivor, Starghill is aware she has been more fortunate than many others. For one thing, her breast cancer was caught early. She came into the Sandra and Malcolm Berman Comprehensive Breast Care Center for a routine mammogram and was brought to see Breast Surgeon Dr. Sarah Fogarty right away. After a biopsy, then a successful lumpectomy, her treatment regimen now involves taking a pill once a day. She currently sees Medical Oncologist and Hematologist Dr. Priyanka Mittar regularly to ensure her recovery continues.

After receiving an email describing the need for donations to the Oncology Support Services program, Starghill recognized the need and contributed. Oncology Support Services at GBMC includes counseling by licensed social workers, help navigating a cancer journey, and free transportation to and from oncology visits. Patients are never charged for any of these services and the program relies entirely on donations.

“I got information about people who need help getting back and forth to their appointments,” Starghill recalled. “I have my family and have been able to use Uber to get back and forth. I knew I could help people who need help.” She enrolled in a monthly giving program that provides a sense of security to the Oncology Support Services program and, by extension, those they seek to serve.

Donors like Starghill who arrange recurring gifts choose an amount they can manage and increase the impact of their giving by continuing to give that amount every month. It is a powerful way to help others.

It also indicates GBMC and the Sandra and Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute have earned her trust, as a patient, and as a donor. GBMC is Eugenia Starghill’s hospital. She has been here for surgery in the past and when she got her breast cancer diagnosis, she knew where to go.

“I had a lot of faith in GBMC,” she said. “I have been pleased with the care I’ve received.”

Recurring gifts come in all sizes, entirely at the donor’s discretion. And they don’t just help those on the receiving end.

“It makes me feel good because I know I can help somebody who needs help," Starghill said.

To set up your own recurring gift, please visit www.gbmc.org/supportcancercare. For more information about Oncology Support Services or making a recurring gift donation, please contact Director of Major Gifts, Maureen McNeill, at (443) 849-4328.