CHEMO BUDDIES
"Because no one should ever have to go through chemo alone." - Karen Williams
Our vision is to bring hope, comfort, and companionship to every person receiving treatment. We strive to make each visit to the treatment room a little brighter—offering kindness and encouragement so patients feel supported, valued, and never alone on their journey.
What we do
Chemo Buddies is a nonprofit organization that provides emotional support, comfort, and companionship to people undergoing chemotherapy and other cancer treatments. Essentially, Chemo Buddies brings heart and humanity into the cancer care experience — reminding patients that even in the hardest times, they’re not fighting alone.
Chemo Buddies receives national C2 Catalyst for Care Award.
Chemo Buddies are in every local treatment room every single day. We serve every person that walks through the treatment room door - our friends in the recliners, their friends and loved ones, and sometimes even the staff person who needs a little extra TLC. Our job is to provide HOPE to everyone affected by cancer.
What about life outside the treatment room?
Chemo Buddies is expanding its reach to offer even more support through a variety of uplifting programs designed to meet patients and survivors where they are.
- Shuttle Buddies provides free transportation to and from cancer-related appointments.
- The Mermaid Squad is a community of women survivors and caregivers who gather for fun, connection, and shared experiences.
- Karen’s Wig Shop offers free wigs and accessories to women experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatment, helping them feel confident, supported, and seen.
- HopeFest—our signature event that brings us all together to celebrate strength, survivorship, and community with one unforgettable party!
Our Story
Fourteen years ago I sat in the treatment room with my sister, Karen, and while she was receiving her chemo, we brainstormed ideas of how we thought the chemo room could be less fearful and more life-affirming.
Three weeks after her death in 2011, I founded Chemo Buddies, putting those thoughts and ideas into our organizational structure. We never dreamed it would become so large and help so many people; we just wanted to make a difference for people when going through the heartbreaking diagnosis of cancer.
Today, we serve around 300 patients every single weekday. In addition to helping with physical needs like snacks and blankets, we also provide companionship and hope to our patients, their guests, and even the staff. When you see the volunteer in the yellow apron, you know you are not alone and your buddy will take good care of you.
Would you consider a donation of $60 or more to help fund the first day goody bag and home-made blanket that we give to every new patient? Or perhaps you can help fund Shuttle Buddies, which gives free rides to patients to get to treatment. Or maybe, you'd like to help us provide a new wig to someone who has just lost their hair?
Cancer is hard. Cancer is scary. We do everything we can to provide hope and support to those in the fight. Please consider helping us, so we can help others.
