The Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation
The Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation, located in Pawtucket, RI, was established in 2004 to help Rhode Islanders affected by breast cancer, the third leading cause of death from cancer in the state. The Gloria Gemma Foundation was established in loving memory of Gloria J. Gemma by her nine children to honor her courageous fight against breast cancer. The 501(c)(3) non-profit organization’s mission is to raise breast cancer awareness; increase breast health education; enhance the quality of life for breast cancer patients, as well as their families and friends; and generate funding for local breast health programs. 100% of the organization’s net proceeds remain in Rhode Island.
In November 2011, The Gloria Gemma Foundation became the major supporter of the Oncology Rehab Partners’ STAR Program® in Rhode Island, the nation’s first statewide initiative to adopt cancer rehabilitation in hospitals, cancer center and rehabilitation facilities. The STAR Program involves the state’s healthcare leaders across the care continuum and is being implemented at American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer-accredited hospitals and independent rehabilitation facilities throughout the state.
With critical support from The Gloria Gemma Foundation, Oncology Rehab Partners is helping Rhode Island position itself at the forefront of a critical movement in breast healthcare, similar to New York’s leadership in cardiac rehab almost a century ago.
