Funding will be used for educational and counseling programs on prevention and treatment

(Louisville, KY) Today, Congressman John Yarmuth (KY-3) presented a $95,000 check to Gilda's Club of Louisville to be used for programs and services designed to support people with cancer, long-term cancer survivors, and families and friends impacted by the disease.  Congressman Yarmuth secured the funding for the organization in the FY09 Labor-Health and Human Services Appropriations Bill.

“Gilda's Club provides a much-needed resource and support network to Louisvillians confronting a cancer diagnosis,” Congressman Yarmuth said. “It is an honor to be able to help this organization continue to build a community where families living with cancer can find a helping hand and a source of strength.”

“Beyond the medical implications, cancer can invoke fear, anxiety, depression, and isolation—not only for the individual diagnosed but for the entire family,” said President & CEO of Gilda's Club of Louisville, Karen Morrison.  “These funds, earmarked by Congressman Yarmuth, will allow us to ensure the social and emotional needs of those families are addressed. Through a variety of support, education, and social program offerings for the whole family Gilda’s Club will help to ensure the children in our community and their families who are on a cancer journey will need not be on that journey alone.”

Gilda's Club of Louisville is part of a nationwide network of clubs founded in remembrance of comedian Gilda Radner's battle against cancer, and her work to increase awareness and education about the disease. Marked by a signature red door, the first Gilda's Club was opened in 1995. The Louisville Club opened in 2007.

At Gilda's Club of Louisville,  the organization offers a full calendar of activities and educational programs to those effected by cancer.  Men, women, and children with cancer are joined by their families and friends at the club for legal workshops, health seminars, and social events intended to create bonds that offer vital social and emotional support. All activities and programs at the Club are available free of charge.

For more information, visit the Gilda's Club of Louisville website.