Cancer Support Community Redondo Beach was built on in-person, emotional and social support for cancer patients and their families, but the coronavirus pandemic not only shut down its networking groups and other activities, it also forced the nonprofit to cancel its two major fundraising events, according to executive director/CEO Joey Shanahan.
The nonprofit shifted to Zoom events, but it has not been ideal, Shanahan said.
“The in-person connection is really important when you’re talking to other people with a similar experience when someone’s feeling emotional and needs an arm put around them or a hug,” she said. “Everyone is missing that.”
To replace CSCRB’s signature events, June’s “Celebrate Wellness” and “Girl’s Night Out” which normally takes place in October, they will host their first live stream event, “Sunset at the Beach,” Thursday, Oct. 1 from 6 to 7 p.m.
The free event will be hosted by actor and comedian Mark DeCarlo and will feature cancer survivor stories, live and silent auctions, and an appearance by Redondo Beach Mayor Bill Brand, who has been public about his recent cancer battle.
“The Cancer Support Community of Redondo Beach provides free services to all comers who are dealing with all the challenges a cancer battle brings,” said Brand in an email.
Brand went on to write the 30-year-old nonprofit “represents what is best about the South Bay” staffed with caring and gracious people who always look out for others no matter their race, religion, ethnic origin or circumstance.
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