"Rack Pack" Raises Money for Cancer Walk

Tewksbury resident Jeannie Hayden knows first hand how lucky she is to have a world-class cancer center in her backyard. Seven years ago she underwent treatment for breast cancer at Lowell General Hospital’s Cancer Center and she couldn’t have been more satisfied with the experience.

“The people that work there are really wonderful and supportive – they are there for you,” said Hayden. “They’ll hold your hand, help get your prescriptions, arrange rides to and from treatment - whatever you need.”

Her journey opened her eyes to the importance of supporting cancer patients and their families while they were undergoing treatment, a time when many patients need extra emotional, financial, or medical support. And so The Rack Pack was born. The team, now 20 members strong and growing, participates in and raises money for TeamWalk for CancerCare each year. They have already raised over $1,200 this year and more than $5,000 since they came together as a team.

TeamWalk funds make a difference in the lives of today’s cancer patients by paying for medications, nutritional supplements, wigs and prostheses, support groups, skilled nursing visits, transportation, mini-grants, and supportive services to patients of all cancer types. Funds raised enable Lowell General Hospital to provide assistance, support, and services to help people feel better, build confidence and instill hope throughout their battle with cancer.

Last year, with the help of generous corporate partners and more than 5,000 walkers, TeamWalk raised $920,000 to support the Cancer Center's services for patients and their families. Since its inception in 2000, TeamWalk has raised more than seven million dollars to help over 20,000 patients.

To sign up to walk, volunteer or donate, visit www.teamwalk.org