Earlier this year Young Texans Against Cancer, otherwise known as YTAC, partnered with ThriveWell in order to thrive and grow its San Antonio chapter. Jenness Gough, Board President, Young Texans Against Cancer (YTAC) powered by ThriveWell, talks about hearing the news of her grandmother’s cancer diagnosis, how she got involved in YTAC, and what she likes to do in her spare time.
How did you learn about YTAC?
I became involved with YTAC through my amazing sister, Kay Kay, who is a current member of our board, after I got out of school. She encouraged me to join and after a year of being a member, I was inspired by all of the work YTAC does and the impact it has on the community that I wanted to do more by serving on the board.
And ThriveWell?
I first heard about ThriveWell through my involvement with YTAC. ThriveWell has been a beneficiary of YTAC’s for years and I heard Erin Ercoline, Executive Director, Thrivewell Cancer Foundation, give a testimonial at an event and knew that I wanted to find a way to continue to support the organization
When you were 12 you got a phone call that had a huge impact on your life. Tell us about that.
I received a call from my dad telling me that my Gigi (my grandmother) was diagnosed with melanoma and had 6 months to live. This was heartbreaking as she was one of my most favorite people in the whole world. Luckily, due to research and clinical trials, I was given 6.5 more years with her before Alzheimer’s ultimately took her. I am hopeful that during my lifetime there will be a cure for all types of cancer, so no 12 year old has to receive a phone call like that ever again.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I’m an avid golfer, I love to travel the world, and in my free time, really any chance I get, you can find me with my niece, Kaki.
Do you have a favorite mantra, prayer or saying?
Don’t count the days, make the days count. – Muhammad Ali
How do folks join YTAC?
The YTAC membership is $40 per year, which gives people opportunity to participate on an events committee and a discount on YTAC events. They can contact me at jgough4591@gmail.com if they would like to join!
ABOUT YTAC powered by ThriveWell
Young Texans Against Cancer – San Antonio (YTAC) powered by ThriveWell supports cancer research and patient programs through fundraising and fellowship.
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