Barrington, IL, Friday, February 22, 2019 — Cancer touches every person’s life, whether through their own diagnosis or that of a loved one. Phil’s Friends and Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital are now partnering to offer hope and support to people affected by cancer where they receive treatment. “Lying flat on my back in my hospital room is when I learned how powerful hope is on the cancer journey,” said Phil Zielke, two-time stage 4 cancer survivor and founder of Phil’s Friends. “I am thrilled Phil’s Friends is expanding its programs to Good Shepherd so that patients know they too are not alone.”

Trained by Phil’s Friends, Hope to Hospitals volunteers will visit patients and their loved ones in the infusion center and radiation oncology at Advocate Good Shepherd to share care packages, encouraging cards, and emotional and spiritual support. Phil’s Friends board member, Abigail Gage, explains how this partnership began. “When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, my hope came from the team at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, who came alongside me during my treatment and continues to monitor my health three years later,” Gage said. “I am delighted that Good Shepherd is partnering with Phil’s Friends. The doctors, nurses and staff are committed to bringing good health and hope to every cancer patient that they treat and now Phil’s Friends will be there to help.”

If you are interested in learning more about Phil’s Friends or ways to volunteer, please visit philsfriends.org, email info@philsfriends.org, or call 224-653-8315.