Aimee Locke, JD
Nearly fifteen years ago, during one of the most vulnerable seasons of her life, Aimee Locke, JD first learned about ThriveWell Cancer Foundation while undergoing her own breast cancer treatment. What immediately stood out to Aimee was ThriveWell’s deeply local focus and its three-pronged mission, each piece addressing critical needs faced by cancer patients and their families.
Drawn to the idea of neighbors helping neighbors, Aimee became involved early on when she was asked to co-chair ThriveWell’s very first luncheon.
That initial step of service quickly turned into a lasting commitment, leading her to join the board of directors shortly thereafter and remain deeply involved ever since, helping shape the organization from its earliest years into the impactful foundation it is today.
One defining moment solidified just how essential ThriveWell’s mission truly was for Aimee. While still receiving daily radiation treatments herself, she noticed that the woman who followed her in line for treatment suddenly stopped showing up after only three weeks. The reason was heartbreaking. The fellow patient could no longer afford her co-pays or transportation to and from appointments. That experience brought into sharp focus the real barriers patients face and the critical role ThriveWell plays in ensuring that financial strain never stands in the way of care.
Serving on the ThriveWell board has become the most meaningful nonprofit work of Aimee’s life. After her diagnosis, she made a personal vow to become deeply involved in a cancer related organization that aligned with her values and addressed real needs. ThriveWell was that organization. Over the years, Aimee’s role evolved in many ways, particularly during the early days when staff was small and board members stepped in wherever help was needed. Even as the organization grew, her desire remained the same, to serve in whatever capacity ThriveWell needed most.
What makes ThriveWell’s board culture so unique is the genuine respect and unity among its members. Each person brings different personal experiences and professional expertise, yet everyone shares a deep commitment to the mission. Despite varied backgrounds and perspectives, the board comes together as one team focused on serving the community and ensuring patients are supported.
Since Aimee (pictured along with her husband Stacy Locke) first joined, ThriveWell has grown tremendously, now serving far more individuals, partnering with more businesses and supporters, and reaching deeper into the community than ever before, all while remaining rooted in its core values of compassion, stewardship, and local impact.
One patient story that continues to resonate deeply with Aimee, is Charles from ThriveWell’s early days. He utilized transportation assistance and later participated in one of the organization’s first videos. Inspirational, humorous, and authentic, Charles embodied the spirit of resilience ThriveWell seeks to support. Moments like his serve as constant reminders of why the work matters and why ThriveWell’s emphasis on local impact is so essential, supporting friends, neighbors, and families right here in the community as they navigate the difficult journey of cancer.
Like any nonprofit, ThriveWell has faced challenges along the way. What Aimee is most proud of is how the board consistently pulled together through both good times and difficult seasons. No matter the circumstances, the mission always remained the priority, with a continual focus on maximizing every dollar to benefit as many patients as possible. Board service has reinforced for Aimee the power of community and how vital it is for people to come together to support one another and work collectively to make a difference.
Looking ahead, Aimee is excited about ThriveWell’s continued evolution and expanding reach. Each year brings greater impact, more patients served, and new opportunities to support families in need. Her hope is that ThriveWell will always be known for one simple but powerful truth, being by your side when you need it most.
On a personal level, being part of ThriveWell has allowed Aimee to give back in a deeply meaningful way. It has become an expression of gratitude for her own journey and the lessons it brought to her and to those she loves, turning her experience into hope for others. For anyone considering board service or deeper involvement, Aimee’s message is clear. Getting involved with ThriveWell offers a profound understanding of how cancer impacts far more than just the patient and a firsthand look at how meaningful support can truly change lives.
When Aimee reflects on her years with ThriveWell, she is most grateful for the incredible people she has worked alongside, the opportunity to witness the organization’s impact up close, and the chance to give back after her own experience with cancer. If Aimee had to describe the heart of ThriveWell in just a few words, she would say it provides a way for patients and their loved ones to know they are not alone.