What an incredible, inspiring day we shared! ThriveWell Cancer Foundation family and friends gathered at the beautiful Mays Family Center at the Witte Museum in San Antonio, Texas on April 10th, 2026 for our annual luncheon, and the energy in the room was electric. Together, we celebrated resilience, honored survivors, and detailed the progress made so that no one has to face cancer alone. To every single person who attended: THANK YOU! Your presence, your passion, and your dedication to our mission make everything we do possible. It’s due to support like yours that allows us to continue finding a cure for cancer by funding vital cancer research, providing patient assistance, and offering free community programs that improve the quality of life for adult cancer patients and their families in San Antonio.
Leadership and Service
From the moment the University of the Incarnate Word Symphony trio began to play, the atmosphere was filled with hope. The personal stories shared throughout the afternoon, especially the powerful journey of Luncheon Co-Chair Marc Strode, Cancer Warrior and Senior Vice President, Rural Market at Methodist Healthcare, and his wife and Co-Chair Paige Strode, Caregiver and Occupational Therapist. Together with their four sons, their story was both heartfelt and inspiring, leaving a lasting impact on everyone in the room.
Marc and Paige chaired the event and were instrumental in helping raise funds that go directly toward supporting ThriveWell thrivers and survivors. They led the welcome, provided an update on ThriveWell’s progress, and shared their personal perspective during the “Our Journey” presentation. We also heard from Patient Assistance recipients and Diva and Dude program participants, Ruthe Jones and David Trujillo, Jr., whose courage and authenticity reminded us why this work matters so deeply. Hearing from the Strode family alongside brave warriors Ruthe and David reinforces the immense challenges patients face and the critical role our programs and services play in helping them access care and continue treatment.
A Menu That Nourishes and Heals
Our lunch was more than just a meal; it was a celebration of vitality! We were thrilled to offer a menu specifically crafted to nourish the body and uplift the spirit. Each dish featured ingredients chosen for their incredible health benefits; from the detoxifying qualities of broccoli and spinach to the antioxidant-rich berries that support strength and renewal.
On the Menu:
Starter: The vibrant Strode’s Super Fuel shot (a delicious blend of blueberries, broccoli, spinach, apples, lemon, and ginger).
Entrée: Herb Roasted Salmon with Chimichurri Glaze, paired with a nutrient-dense mix of baby kale, spinach, farro, edamame, and carrot ribbons.
Treats: Marcona Almond Crackers and a light, refreshing Lemon Shiro Sponge with blood orange segments.
This mindful balance of flavor and function reflects ThriveWell Diva&Dude wellness initiatives. These programs educate patients on the relationship between exercise and adequate nutrition in the process of healing and prevention.
Gratitude to Our Amazing Sponsors
A massive, heartfelt THANK YOU to our Presenting Sponsors, Methodist Healthcare Ministries and The START Center for Cancer Care. Your immense support and dedication to our community are truly life-changing. We also want to extend our deepest gratitude to all of our many sponsors whose generosity allows us to provide critical patient assistance, including rides to treatment, hotel stays, gas cards for travel, all removing some of the non-medical barrios to access treatment.
Looking Ahead: Our 20th Anniversary!
The excitement is already building for next year! Get ready for a historic milestone as we mark the 20th Anniversary of ThriveWell Cancer Foundation. Help us celebrate two decades of empowering patients to THRIVE.
Save the Date:
When: Friday, April 9, 2027
Where: Mays Family Center at the Witte Museum, San Antonio, Texas
Thank you for being part of this journey. We are so grateful for your support and for being part of our ThriveWell family.
