Gilda's Club

A community organization for cancer support

Gilda's Club is a community-based organization that provides support, education, and hope to individuals and families affected by cancer. Named in honor of Gilda Radner, a comedian and original cast member of Saturday Night Live, the club offers a welcoming environment where people can share their experiences and receive emotional and social support.

History

Gilda's Club was founded in 1991 by Joanna Bull, Gilda Radner's cancer psychotherapist, along with Radner's widower, Gene Wilder, and other friends. The first club opened its doors in New York City in 1995. The organization was created to honor Radner's wish that "no one should face cancer alone." The club's name reflects Radner's vibrant personality and her desire to create a place where people could come together to laugh, cry, and support one another.

Mission and Philosophy

The mission of Gilda's Club is to create welcoming communities of free support for everyone living with cancer—men, women, teens, and children—along with their families and friends. The organization believes that community and social support are essential components of cancer care, complementing medical treatment.

Gilda's Club offers a variety of programs, including support groups, educational workshops, and social activities. These programs are designed to help members build a network of support, gain knowledge about cancer and its treatment, and improve their quality of life.

Programs and Services

Gilda's Club provides a range of services to meet the diverse needs of its members. These include:

• Support Groups: Facilitated by licensed professionals, these groups offer a safe space for members to share their experiences and emotions with others who understand what they are going through.

• Educational Workshops: Covering topics such as nutrition, stress management, and advances in cancer treatment, these workshops aim to empower members with knowledge and skills to manage their health and well-being.

• Social Activities: Events such as art classes, yoga sessions, and movie nights provide opportunities for members to relax, have fun, and connect with others in a supportive environment.

• Children and Teen Programs: Tailored to the needs of younger members, these programs offer age-appropriate support and activities to help children and teens cope with a family member's cancer diagnosis or their own.

Expansion and Affiliations

Since its inception, Gilda's Club has expanded to include multiple locations across the United States and Canada. In 2009, Gilda's Club Worldwide merged with The Wellness Community, another cancer support organization, to form the Cancer Support Community. This merger allowed for a broader reach and the ability to offer more comprehensive services to those affected by cancer.

Legacy of Gilda Radner

Gilda's Club New York City

Gilda Radner's legacy lives on through the work of Gilda's Club. Her humor, courage, and spirit continue to inspire the organization's mission and programs. Radner's personal experience with cancer and her desire to help others facing similar challenges are at the heart of Gilda's Club's philosophy.

Related Pages

• Cancer Support Community
• Gilda Radner
• Gene Wilder
• Saturday Night Live