Robbie Lacritz-Deitch lost her battle with ovarian cancer in 2006.  She lived her life to the fullest as she underwent treatment.  Her infectious enthusiasm and positive outlook inspired family, friends and everyone she met.

In honor of heroic caregivers everywhere, The Wellness Community-Greater Boston holds the annual Robbie Lacritz-Deitch Caregiver Appreciation Award Brunch to recognize and honor those who care for a loved one, friend or patient facing the challenge of a diagnosis of cancer.  This event serves to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of various caregivers in several categories including family, friend and medical professional.

All kinds of people provide care for someone with cancer.  Caregivers are essential components in the fight for recovery from the effects of cancer.  While they may often feel depleted of physical energy and emotional strength, they continue to provide ongoing support, love, empowerment and medical care to a family member, friend or patient in need.  Their selfless job is difficult, overwhelming and exhausting.  The Wellness Community has always provided support services to family caregivers, understanding the important role they play in the lives of people with cancer.  This award further demonstrates our appreciation of the challenges they face and the grace with which they live their lives.

All caregivers are "heroes" to their loved ones, their family, and to the community.  Consistent with The Wellness Community’s philosophies, these heroes bring the message of hope and encouragement to those they care for and allow them to embrace the Patient Active Concept that states that, "People with cancer who participate in their fight for recovery will improve the quality of their life and may enhance the possibility of their recovery."   Being "Patient Active" is about feeling and acting empowered.

The Robbie Lacritz-Deitch Caregiver Appreciation Award Brunch is recognition of the heroic job that caregivers do in providing quality care.