Episode notes
In this episode of You're Invited, host Kim sits down with Tisha Gribble, President of the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute Volunteer Auxiliary. Celebrating 40 years of service, the Auxiliary has raised over $3.5 million to support cancer patients and their families across Arkansas through non-research, patient-centered programs. Tisha reflects on the deeply personal nature of their work, observing that "cancer really touches everybody; if you're anybody, you know somebody that has had cancer".
The conversation focuses on the Auxiliary's major initiatives, including the annual Partners Card fundraiser, which offers a 20% discount at participating local retailers and restaurants from October 23 to November 1 to support patient care grants. They also highlight direct support efforts such as the "Most Vital Pal" patient navigation program, oncology massages, lobby knitting groups, and the long-standing Miracle Star holiday tree tradition. Sharing her own journey, Tisha recalls getting involved after a friend underwent treatment, noting, "I wanted to be a part of the group that was taking care of her". Listeners are invited to join the Auxiliary for $25 annually, follow along on social media @uamscanceraux, or visit invitingarkansas.com to shop local and make philanthropy fun.