Caring Together: How the RNS Cancer Fund Continues to Transform Cancer Care at Shore

Since 1981, the Ruth Newman Shapiro (RNS) Cancer and Heart Fund has been an invaluable partner to Shore Medical Center in supporting patients undergoing cancer treatment. With over $2 million in contributions, Shore Cancer Center owes much of its success to RNS. Their support has funded a linear accelerator for radiation therapy, assisted underserved individuals with treatment costs, and, most recently, they made a $50,000 donation to expand Shore Cancer Center to better serve our patients.

Each day, over 40 patients visit Shore Cancer Center for radiation, chemotherapy, and other essential appointments-a number that continues to grow as more seek local cancer care. Thanks to RNS's recent gift, we are adding a much-needed fifth patient room on the second floor, allowing us to expand our compassionate care and reduce wait times.

Roe Magliocco is the President of RNS, and has been involved with the volunteer-run organization since 2005.

"Our mission at RNS has been the same since we were founded - to provide the finest treatment and facilities in our community for people with cancer. They shouldn't have to travel 60 to 90 miles to a major city - they should be able to get good care here, right in their backyard. That continues to be our mission as we head into our 64th year," Roe says.

The new patient room will serve three critical purposes:

• Reduce Wait Times: An additional room means patients can be called back for their appointment sooner.
• Sick Visits: Chemotherapy patients needing urgent care, whether due to dehydration or fever, will have a private, comfortable space where they can be seen immediately, rather than waiting in the waiting area.
• Bone Marrow Biopsies: This dedicated room will also accommodate bone marrow biopsies, a vital diagnostic tool for certain cancers, equipped with all necessary supplies to ensure smooth, efficient care.

Roe says she and the RNS members feel wonderful knowing they are helping to alleviate stress for patients and their loved ones.

"Cancer treatment is no picnic to go through, mentally or physically. If you're waiting, then you're thinking. Your mind travels, and it breaks you down. It's much better to get in and out, do what you have to do, and go home and rest. We're glad to help make treatment a little easier for patients at Shore Cancer Center," Roe says.

What's especially amazing is that RNS is driven solely by volunteers, and the funds they raise happen through events like their annual Bag Ladies Luncheon and upcoming Wine Tasting on October 29 at Sofia in Margate.

"No one gets paid, not even for gas money. We do it from the bottom of our hearts. Everyone involved with RNS has been touched by cancer in some sort of way whether it's themselves or a loved one. Really, it's a give back," Roe says. "Cancer is such an ugly thing. It doesn't care who you are, rich, poor or in between, it doesn't discriminate."

The impact of the Ruth Newman Shapiro Cancer and Heart Fund goes beyond financial support-it's felt by every patient, every family, and every healthcare professional who benefits from the resources they've provided.

As we reflect on the decades of unwavering support from RNS, we're reminded of what Caring Together truly means. Their commitment to our patients, families, and staff has helped shape Shore Cancer Center into the compassionate and innovative center of care it is today. Together, we are making a real difference in the lives of those faced with cancer.