October 21, 2018 | 9 AM - Noon

Thank you for your support of the 19th annual Paws for the Cause hosted by the Board of Associates at Fox Chase Cancer Center on Sunday, October 21, 2018! Whether you walked with us or sponsored a friend, we are grateful for your participation!

We are thrilled to announce that this year’s event raised over $170,000 supporting innovative research at the Institution.

We hope you enjoyed this year’s event. You can find photos from the day on our Flickr page. Thank you again for supporting the Board of Associates and Fox Chase Cancer Center. We look forward to seeing you again for our 20th annual Paws for the Cause in the fall of 2019, date to be announced early next year.

2018 Paws Patient Ambassador – Tracy Gatto

In 2011, my life turned upside down. I found a lump in my right breast and heard my doctor say the words, “It’s cancer.” At age 28, I was in complete and utter shock. I was enrolled in school, working at an animal hospital, dating the wrong guy and loving life, despite it all. What I would soon learn is that I carry a genetic mutation, BRCA1, which puts young women like me at increased risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. My life’s path was changing course.

With my family in my corner, I quickly moved my care to Fox Chase Cancer Center – the best decision I have made. With a diagnosis of stage 2B breast cancer, my cancer had spread to my lymph nodes. My Fox Chase team included a surgeon, an oncologist, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, genetic counselors, nurses and more. They launched into action, starting me on a course of chemotherapy, a mastectomy and reconstruction, as well as a hysterectomy. I was determined not to let cancer back into my body. So far, so good!

In 2012, I heard about Paws for the Cause – Fox Chase’s annual fundraiser. With my love of dogs and my Fox Chase team, I signed up and became a top fundraiser – year after year. After losing my father to cancer in 2008 and supporting my brother through his journey today, I am passionate about advancing cancer research. In 2017, I joined the planning committee and enjoyed my involvement. Imagine my excitement when they asked me to be the 2018 Patient Ambassador! I love this event as it combines my passion for cancer research and my love for animals. I hope you will join Brody and me on October 21, 2018 when we walk to support Fox Chase!