Month: June 2023

June is National Cancer Survivor Month. It’s a time to honor those in various stages of their cancer journeys, celebrate those who help patients through their treatments, and raise awareness of the challenges cancer survivors could face after treatment and throughout their lives.

In recognition of survivors and those who played a role in their cancer journeys, a group of Aflac employees gathered to handwrite cards and notes of encouragement to cancer survivors, parents and medical staff at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, home to one of the leading childhood cancer survivor programs in the country.

“It’s important to remember those who have defeated cancer and are living as survivors,” said Alayne Gamache, program manager, Corporate Social Responsibility. “They face daily challenges that many people might be unaware of, and the cancer survivor program helps them as they work through these difficulties.”

According to the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, 80% of children and young adults diagnosed with cancer will survive, and more than 85% of childhood cancer survivors will experience a significant chronic health condition after treatment that may include physical, psychological and social issues.1 Identifying and treating these problems early can help survivors lead full lives.

“With the number of pediatric cancer survivors continuing to grow, the need for improving long-term health and quality of life becomes increasingly important,” said Dr. Karen Effinger, pediatric oncologist and medical director of the cancer survivor program at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. “Getting patients into remission is an incredible milestone, but the care doesn’t end there — the cancer survivor program gives them the tools they need to thrive and live full lives.”

That’s why the center offers a multidisciplinary cancer survivor program to address the unique needs of childhood cancer survivors who are at least two years off therapy. Through the cancer survivor program, patients receive a personalized care plan and assistance with school, job or insurance concerns. Last year, more than 1,000 survivors visited the clinic, and 81% of children who completed treatment from 2017-2019 used the program from 2020-2022.

Visit the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center website for more information on how to support important initiatives like the cancer survivor program.

1Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. https://www.choa.org/medical-services/cancer-and-blood-disorders/cancer/cancer-survivor-program. Accessed June 15, 2023.

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With a shared commitment to inclusion — and a partnership that spans more than a decade —Henkel and Special Olympics Connecticut (SOCT) make a great team.

Since 2011, Henkel has proudly supported the SOCT and helped bring Special Olympics events to life so athletes of all abilities can experience the joy and camaraderie of friendly competition and discover their inner champion.

Special Olympics CT is truly grateful for the partnership we have built with the Henkel Corporation. In addition to financial support, Henkel employee volunteer engagement has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Sharon O’Reilly-Rozum, Sr. Director Partnerships & Corporate Relations at SOCT

Ready, Set … Volunteer!

Henkel employees are committed to creating positive change in the communities where they live, work and play. Melissa Jacobs, Senior Paralegal, is one of many employees who make volunteerism a way of life. She has fond memories of volunteering for Special Olympics in high school. Today, she enjoys giving back with her children and members of her work family.

Jacobs organizes Henkel volunteers and applies for corporate grants to support SOCT’s Winter and Summer Games, as well as other fundraising events throughout the year. Most recently, in early June 2023, a team of approximately 25 Henkel volunteers and family members assisted with the swimming and track and field competitions, serving as escorts for the athletes (and unofficial cheerleaders).

“We had a blast this year. It was a lot of fun interacting with the athletes and cheering them on,” says Jacobs, noting that the first time a colleague volunteers is seldom the last. “There is a good vibe at Special Olympics events. It’s always a very positive experience for my colleagues who volunteer, and they always want to do it again.”

Teaming Up for Inclusion

Whatever cause is closest to their hearts, employees like Melissa Jacobs embody Henkel’s purpose to be Pioneers at Heart for the Good of Generations.

Henkel always strives to be inclusive, and that really is what Special Olympics is about.

Melissa Jacobs, Senior Paralegal

Henkel’s Make an Impact on Tomorrow (MIT) program was designed to support the causes employees are passionate about. Celebrating its 25th year in 2023, the grassroots program provides financial and other resources to connect with communities in meaningful ways. Special Olympics is one of the causes MIT supports year after year because the company strongly believes in their mission of diversity and inclusion — and it’s one of our employees’ favorite ways to give back.

“Henkel has been supporting SOCT for over 12 years, donating over $126,000 to help fund our statewide competitions that serve 10,000 athletes and unified partners,” says O’Reilly Rozum. “Henkel’s financial support and employee volunteers have become an integral part of making our yearly events possible. Athletes have formed friendships with many of the volunteers and look forward to seeing them year after year.”

Going Global

Henkel is supporting the boccia competition at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, June 17-25, 2023. Jacobs joins a global team of 60 Henkel volunteers to support the athletes and ensure the boccia competition goes smoothly. “I am super excited about meeting Henkel colleagues from around the world and proud to see Henkel’s name as a sponsor,” says Jacobs. “These athletes are doing what they love, and it’s awesome to see.”