Mary Fisher, Activist, Author, Survivor, Keynote Speaker at AtlantiCare Event

Mary Fisher, an accomplished artist, author, mother, survivor and advocate for AIDS and cancer patients across the globe spoke at AtlantiCare’s 10th Anniversary Women’s Signature Health Event Oct. 24 at the Carriage House in Galloway. She addressed more than 300 guests in her speech entitled “To Inspire, Love, and Serve.”
Discussing her experiences with AIDS and breast cancer, Fisher encouraged listeners to overcome fear and promote awareness. “What keeps women from routine [healthcare] exams is a feeling of selfishness…Self-care is seen as selfish. We need to help each other over this kind of warped sense of sacrifice.”
Through her own struggles, Fisher found meaning in service, advocating for oppressed women, orphaned children, and cancer and AIDS survivors. “Inspire hope and joy where others sow anger and hatred; look beyond [yourself] to act lovingly toward those in need around [you],” she challenged her audience.
The evening offered support to women facing cancer and celebrated cancer survivors of all kinds. Lauren Ochs, assistant vice president, Women and Children’s Services, AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center (ARMC), recognized members of the community who made significant contributions to the care of women with cancer, including Linnea Brown, breast health coordinator, ARMC; the late Mary Ann Coyle; Anne Neustadter, co-founder of the Shirley Mae Breast Cancer Assistance Fund; Rose Newman, founder for the Ruth Newman Shapiro Cancer and Heart Fund; Mike Richman, morning host, 95.1 WAYV FM; Ginny Blades, founder, Ladies Invitation Bluefish Tournament; ARMC Mainland Auxiliary; Melinda Danieli, cancer survivor and advocate; and Denise Rounds, founder, Shirley Mae Breast Cancer Assistance Fund Run and Walk. Ann Szapor, RN, MBA, assistant vice president of nursing, AtlantiCare, was named as the 2013 Honoree.
“Every day, we witness the courage of our patients and their families – many of whom are here tonight – living well. This event honors these individuals and celebrates their courage, their strength, and the community of support that surrounds them,” said Anjeanette Brown, MD, breast surgeon, ARMC and 2013 co-chair of the Women’s Health Signature Event.
A gourmet sit-down dinner was accompanied by shopping, chair massages and mini-spa treatments. Tarot card readings, raffles, and the “I Will Survive” exhibit, featuring art created by women struggling with cancer, provided lighter entertainment.
Hosted by the AtlantiCare Foundation, proceeds of the event will benefit programs and services of the AtlantiCare Cancer Care Institute, a Fox Chase Cancer Center Partner, in Egg Harbor Township, and Cape May Court House, New Jersey.
For more information about AtlantiCare’s Breast Health Program or other AtlantiCare services, call the AtlantiCare Access Center at 1-888-569-1000, visit www.atlanticare.org or find AtlantiCare on Facebook at www.facebook.com/atlanticare.