Fitzgibbon Hospital Foundation to Continue Cancer Perks

May 13, 2025

Sedalia, Missouri, May 9, 2025 – Cancer Perks, a local nonprofit that has provided comfort bags and emergency assistance to cancer patients since 2015, is entering a new chapter via the Fitzgibbon Hospital Foundation. The transition to the hospital foundation ensures that Cancer Perks' original mission—adding light, hope and practical support to those facing cancer—will continue to thrive within the foundation.

Crystal McGraw, Marshall resident who has served with Cancer Parks in Sedalia, will be the local coordinator in conjunction with Andrea Barr, Foundation Director at Fitzgibbon Hospital. This ensures Cancer Perks bags can still be enjoyed by patients receiving treatment inside the Fitzgibbon Community Cancer Center. Additionally, gas cards have been provided to cancer patients who have the need.

Since its founding, Cancer Perks has touched the lives of hundreds of cancer patients throughout the Sedalia and Marshall areas. Comfort bags filled with practical items and thoughtful gifts—like blankets, lip balm, snacks and notes of encouragement—have brought comfort and reassurance to patients as they start their treatment journeys. The organization also has provided emergency assistance through a referral program in partnership with local care providers.

Cancer Perks’ leadership made the decision to dissolve the nonprofit and distribute its remaining assets to ensure its mission continues locally. As part of that process, the Fitzgibbon Hospital Foundation and the Bothwell Foundation in Sedalia will each receive a portion of the organization’s final funds.

The transition to the Fitzgibbon Hospital Foundation becomes official on July 1, and Cancer Perks will continue serving cancer patients receiving care at the Fitzgibbon Community Cancer Center.

“Cancer treatment can be a scary thing to undergo, and the treatment comes with some very practical needs,” said Barr.  “Being able to meet some of these basic needs through a thoughtful gift such as the Cancer Perks bag is something that can provide a sense of support for those receiving care.  We are happy to continue this work.”

McGraw said she is excited to coordinate the Cancer Perks’ efforts through the Fitzgibbon Hospital Foundation.

“The team of nurses at Fitzgibbon are top notch! Working with these ladies and witnessing their love for their patients has been such a joy to watch. I have met these ladies on Christmas Eve to deliver gifts. They have helped with passing out Christmas meals for every current patient,” said McGraw.  “I am thankful to have been so lucky to be a part of such amazing people who donate to Cancer Perks, which made this all possible.”

For more information about how to support the Cancer Perks initiative, visit fitzgibbon.org/foundation or call Andrea Barr at 660-831-3850.