Impact in Action: Steve Hays: Turning Family Loss into a Legacy of Hope for ThriveWell

By Alaina Weynand, Development Director, ThriveWell Cancer Foundation

When his sister Karen passed away from gastric cancer at just 47, ThriveWell Cancer Foundation Board Member, Steve Hays and his family transformed their grief into purpose by creating the Karen Franklin Gastric Cancer Memorial Fund.

Conquering Cancer Together: ThriveWell's FREE Diva&Dude Program

Diva&Dude is ThriveWell’s signature wellness program designed specifically for cancer patients and survivors. Unlike traditional support groups, this community-based program offers comprehensive, evidence-based fitness, nutrition, and wellness classes—all completely free of charge.

Healing Hearts Telethon: An Unforgettable Day of Hope and Generosity

A special THANK YOU to reporter Yami Virgin, Fox San Antonio, for her incredible commitment to the telethon. She broadcast live for an astonishing 17 hours, from 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., in memory of her late friend and co-worker, Karen Martinez. Read more

Diva Maria Inspires Others with Her 17-Year Ovarian Cancer Journey

ThriveWell Diva Maria recently shared her cancer journey with employees at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Plant in San Antonio, Texas. Maria is a member of ThriveWell’s free Diva and Dude Program and spoke about the positive impact ThriveWell has had on her life. Read more

Fall 2025 Events: Stronger Together, Thriving Together

This fall, ThriveWell Cancer Foundation invites you to be part of a powerful lineup of events designed to support cancer patients in our community. From uplifting celebrations to energetic fundraisers, each event plays a vital role in helping patients and their families thrive during their treatment.

Women in Medicine & Law Pink Party

Monday, Oct. 6, 2025 | 5–9 p.m. | The Mays Family Center at the Witte Museum

This signature event celebrates the influence and leadership of Women in Medicine and Law, uniting them in support of cancer patients. The evening will feature inspiring stories, engaging entertainment, and a powerful show of community coming together in compassion and strength. THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Paint the Parkway Pink 5K Fun Run

Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025 | 7–10 a.m. | SAPD Training Center

One of our most beloved community events, the Paint the Parkway Pink 5K brings together families, survivors, and supporters for a morning of movement and motivation. Come dressed in pink and show your support as we honor those affected by cancer and celebrate those who continue to fight. Cancer survivors can register for FREE.

Iron Strong Golf Tournament

Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025 | 1 p.m. Shotgun Start | Canyon Springs Golf Course

Tee off for a purpose at our annual golf tournament. Participants will enjoy a full day on the course while raising funds for ThriveWell’s comprehensive cancer care initiatives. This event offers a unique opportunity to network and make an impact in a relaxed, outdoor setting.

Pedaling in Pink Social Ride

Saturday, Oct. 25th | 7 a.m. check in, 8 a.m. Program Start | Cherrity Bar

Cyclists of all experience levels are invited to join us for this social ride through downtown San Antonio. Pedaling in Pink is more than a bike ride, it’s a community-driven effort to support ThriveWell’s mission of supporting the wellness for cancer patients through activity. Cancer survivors can register for FREE.

Bras for a Cause

Thursday, Oct. 30th I 5 p.m. | New Braunfels Civic Center

Creativity and compassion collide at Bras for a Cause, an unforgettable evening featuring custom-designed bras, auction items, and uplifting entertainment. This event brings together local talent and generous supporters in a unique celebration of survivorship and support.

Each of these events reflects ThriveWell’s commitment to providing life-saving resources and compassionate care to those facing a cancer diagnosis. For more information about attending, sponsoring, or volunteering, please visit thrivewell.org or call (210) 593-5949.

Together, we are stronger. Together, we THRIVE.

New Breast Cancer Research Shows the Importance of Diet and Exercise

Maxine Bergman, a breast cancer survivor and a grandmother of five, relies on breast cancer research and advice from AICR to help guide her lifestyle choices. Bergman’s motto is “take care of your body. It’s the only one you’ve got.” Bergman, a retired nurse, was excited to read AICR’s new research on breast cancer survivors as it relates to:

Body weight and outcomes after a breast cancer diagnosis.
Physical activity and outcomes after a breast cancer diagnosis.
Diet and outcomes after a breast cancer diagnosis.
Whether being physically active improves the quality of life in women living with and beyond breast cancer.

Patient Testimonial -- Dee Seabolt

"Breast Cancer presented me with a challenge that had a silver lining. It made me stronger in my faith and gave me permission for 'ME.'"

That permission to focus on herself led Dee to a place of support and positivity: ThriveWell Cancer Foundation's Diva Program. As a Diva, she found a community that reassured her she wasn't "just" a stage one survivor—she was an important part of a shared journey. For Dee, this sense of belonging was exactly what she needed after treatment. Read more

Thank You Big Give Donors!

A special THANK YOU to our Big Give SA donors and supporters!

Awareness Months Recognized

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed today, and early detection is a powerful tool in the fight. Read more

If you have a history of chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis, you might be at a higher risk of liver cancer. That's why being aware of symptoms like unexplained fatigue or a swollen abdomen is so important.