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Saturday, April 11
 

8:30am MST

Nonprofit Exhibitor Booths
Saturday April 11, 2026 8:30am - 9:00am MST
Main Place Courtyard
Start your day by meeting nonprofit organizations dedicated to cancer support and wellness. Each exhibitor booth will be showcasing their resources and programs. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with community partners, gather helpful information, and learn about services available to patients and caregivers.

A light breakfast will be served to help you fuel up for the day ahead.
Saturday April 11, 2026 8:30am - 9:00am MST
Main Place Courtyard
  Main Place Courtyard

8:30am MST

Breakfast
Saturday April 11, 2026 8:30am - 9:00am MST
SoHo Ballroom
Enjoy a light breakfast in the ballroom, then step into the courtyard to connect with our amazing nonprofit vendors offering free resources just for you.

Today’s breakfast is made possible by our generous sponsor, Branden Lombardi Foundation. Thank you for your incredible support!
Sponsors
avatar for Branden Lombardi Foundation

Branden Lombardi Foundation

Improving the lives of cancer patients today
Saturday April 11, 2026 8:30am - 9:00am MST
SoHo Ballroom
  SoHo Ballroom

9:00am MST

Opening Ceremony
Saturday April 11, 2026 9:00am - 9:15am MST
SoHo Ballroom
Kick off the day with a heartfelt welcome from Alyssa, Founder and Executive Director of Chemo Companions. She will open Gather & Grow by sharing the mission behind the event and setting the tone for a day of connection, wellness, and education. Join us as we come together to honor the strength of cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers, and begin a day dedicated to support, hope, and growth.
Speakers
avatar for Alyssa Gofonia-Dinowitz

Alyssa Gofonia-Dinowitz

Founder & Executive Director, Chemo Companions
Alyssa Dinowitz is the Founder and Executive Director of Chemo Companions, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing love, compassion, understanding, and hope to patients undergoing cancer treatment.
Inspired by her mother, Marriann, and the experiences Alyssa witnessed during her treatment, Alyssa recognized a critical gap in emotional, practical, and holistic support for patients. What began as a deeply personal mission has grown into a compassionate community effort rooted... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 9:00am - 9:15am MST
SoHo Ballroom
  SoHo Ballroom

9:15am MST

Living Well Beyond Cancer: Hope, Healing, and Resilience
Saturday April 11, 2026 9:15am - 9:45am MST
SoHo Ballroom

Speakers
avatar for Heidi Rula, MD

Heidi Rula, MD

Medical Director of the Supportive Care Services Department, Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Dr. Heidi Rula joined Ironwood in 2018 to launch the Integrative Oncology program. She is board certified in family medicine and fellowship trained in Integrative Medicine. Dr. Rula has been a practicing physician in the Phoenix area for over 20 years and has been recognized by her... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 9:15am - 9:45am MST
SoHo Ballroom
  SoHo Ballroom

10:00am MST

Latest Advances in Cancer Treatment & Survivorship Care
Saturday April 11, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am MST
SoHo Ballroom

Speakers
avatar for Karen Ortiz, MD

Karen Ortiz, MD

Medical Oncologist, Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Dr. Ortiz joined Ironwood Cancer & Research Center in September 2014, after completing her hematology and medical oncology fellowship at the University of South Carolina in Charleston. She completed two years of research at the National Cancer Institute | National Institutes of Health... Read More →
avatar for Sumeet K. Mendonca, MD

Sumeet K. Mendonca, MD

Medical Oncologist, Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Dr. Sumeet Mendonca serves as the Director Of Breast Oncology at Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers. She received her medical degree from University of Mumbai after which she spent several years in research at the Center for Immunotherapy of Cancer and Infectious Diseases at University... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am MST
SoHo Ballroom
  SoHo Ballroom

10:00am MST

Mat Pilates
Saturday April 11, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
Join Teri Friedland for a gentle Mat Pilates class focusing on exercises to help you become stronger, more flexible, and decrease anxiety.

Speakers
avatar for Teri Friedland

Teri Friedland

Founder, Pink Ribbon 360
Hi! My name is Teri Friedland. I am the creator of Pink Ribbon 360 and Pilates Arcadia. I was born and raised in New Jersey and graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy. After graduation, I lived in New England for a few years... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
  Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1

10:00am MST

Nutrition & Cancer
Saturday April 11, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2

Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Caraway

Jennifer Caraway

The Joy Bus
Jennifer Caraway is a seasoned entrepreneur and award-winning culinary leader known for creating scalable, heart-centered ventures that blend high-quality hospitality with deeply impactful community service. As the founder of The Joy Bus and The Joy Bus Diner, Jennifer has transformed... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 10:00am - 10:30am MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2
  Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2

10:30am MST

Managing Common Cancer Treatment Side Effects
Saturday April 11, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am MST
SoHo Ballroom

Speakers
avatar for Onyemaechi Okolo-Taku, MD

Onyemaechi Okolo-Taku, MD

Medical Oncologist, Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Dr. Onyemaechi Okolo-Taku joined Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers in 2021. She has been blessed with a multicultural and multinational upbringing, which has greatly influenced her everyday interactions, her cultural competency, and her work. She was born in Nigeria and lived there... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am MST
SoHo Ballroom
  SoHo Ballroom

10:30am MST

Yoga Nidra
Saturday April 11, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
Yoga Nidra is a guided meditation practice that supports deep rest and relaxation while remaining awake and aware. Often described as “yogic sleep,” this practice helps calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and create a sense of spaciousness and ease. Participants are invited to lie down or sit comfortably and simply be guided—no movement or prior experience is needed.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Martin

Jennifer Martin

Jennifer Martin is a certified life coach, mindfulness instructor, writer, and certified Yoga Nidra facilitator, as well as a graduate of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program. After being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis more than twenty years ago, she turned to... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
  Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1

10:30am MST

Neurographic Art
Saturday April 11, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2

Speakers
avatar for Erin DeJong

Erin DeJong

Sovereignty Coach & Mentor


Saturday April 11, 2026 10:30am - 11:00am MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2
  Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2

11:00am MST

Nutrition & Cancer: What the Science Really Says
Saturday April 11, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am MST
SoHo Ballroom

Speakers
avatar for Lauren Duda, RD

Lauren Duda, RD

Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Lauren was born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona and has lived throughout the Valley her entire life. She attended Arizona State University and graduated with her undergraduate degree in Nutrition (Dietetics) and a minor in Family and Human Development in December 2017. Lauren completed... Read More →
avatar for Brenda Gridley, RD

Brenda Gridley, RD

Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Brenda is originally from Los Angeles, CA where she attended California State University of Los Angeles for her undergraduate degree in Nutritional Science. She began her career with Kaiser Permanente in 2004. Throughout her professional development, she has worked in Cardiology and... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am MST
SoHo Ballroom
  SoHo Ballroom

11:00am MST

Time to Thrive Sound Healing: A Mini Sound Healing Experience
Saturday April 11, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
This gentle 30‑minute sound healing session offers a calming and restorative pause designed especially for individuals living with cancer and their loved ones. This is a preview of the monthly Time To Thrive Sound Healing class that is taught on 1st Wednesdays (2:00-3:30pm) at the Scottsdale location for Ironwood Cancer &Research Centers. This experience includes simple breathwork to help settle...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Spearin

Sarah Spearin

Certified Yoga Nidra & Sound Healing Practitioner, Syncing Into Bliss
It all started with my yoga journey in 2013. I was going through a difficult time, believing my life was lacking authenticity and purpose. Yoga served as a catalyst, leading me to obtain my 200-hour training from Rishikesh Yog Peeth in Rishikesh, India in 2013. I taught for four years... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
  Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1

11:00am MST

How to Talk to Your Family About Cancer
Saturday April 11, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2
This workshop focuses on building awareness about how to carry out conversations about cancer diagnosis and treatment. People impacted by cancer and their loved ones are invited to join us as we learn what kids know about this condition at different ages, how to talk about cancer, tips for answering common questions, ways to help your family, and additional resources.
Speakers
avatar for Mary Hald, LMSW

Mary Hald, LMSW

Clinical Program Director, Cancer Support Community Arizona
Mary Hald is a Licensed Master Social Worker and the Clinical Program Director at Cancer Support Community Arizona, where she has spent the past five years supporting individuals and families impacted by cancer. She provides individual therapy, facilitates support groups, and works... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2
  Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2

11:30am MST

Exercise Oncology: The Power of Exercise in Cancer Care
Saturday April 11, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm MST
SoHo Ballroom

Speakers
avatar for Chad Cherington, MD

Chad Cherington, MD

Medical Oncologist, Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers

Chad Cherington, MD
Medical Oncologist
Brain Malignancies
Director of Genitourinary Oncology
Skin & Sarcoma
"Dr. Cherington has given me a new lease on life and more time to watch my kids grow up after being diagnosed with a rare Sarcoma cancer last year. He has been an excellent phys... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm MST
SoHo Ballroom
  SoHo Ballroom

11:30am MST

Healing the Heart Guided Meditation and Breath
Saturday April 11, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
his session is open to everyone. Join us for 30 minutes of guided soft, supportive meditation and breath explorations. Sit on the floor and relax into an immersive heart opening healing meditation. Gentle breathwork to calm the nervous system will be offered to compliment the mediation experience.
Speakers
avatar for Andrea Hutchens

Andrea Hutchens

Andrea Hutchens is a Phoenix based yoga and meditation teacher with over 25 years experience. Currently based out of Buddha Bella Healing Center, her focus is on supporting the body through intentional movement, supportive breathwork and advanced meditation practices under the lineage... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
  Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1

11:30am MST

This is Living with Cancer
Saturday April 11, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2

Speakers
avatar for Kerri Hale

Kerri Hale

Key Account Director, Quality Division, Pfizer Oncology
Dedicated healthcare leader with 20 years at Pfizer, focused on partnering with cancer centers and advocacy organizations to improve the patient journey and overall care experience. Kerri works closely with care teams and advocates to help remove barriers, elevate patient voices... Read More →
Sponsors
avatar for Pfizer

Pfizer

Pfizer Oncology is at the forefront of a new era in cancer care. Driven by science, we are committed to accelerating breakthroughs to help people with cancer live better and longer lives. 
Saturday April 11, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2
  Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2

12:00pm MST

Nonprofit Exhibitor Booths
Saturday April 11, 2026 12:00pm - 12:30pm MST
Main Place Courtyard
Take a break and enjoy the fresh air as you connect with nonprofit organizations dedicated to cancer support and wellness. Each exhibitor booth will be showcasing their resources and programs. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with community partners, gather helpful information, and learn about services available to patients and caregivers.A boxed lunch will be served so you can relax and...
See More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 12:00pm - 12:30pm MST
Main Place Courtyard
  Main Place Courtyard

12:00pm MST

Lunch
Saturday April 11, 2026 12:00pm - 12:30pm MST
SoHo Ballroom
Enjoy a delicious lunch, then head to the courtyard to connect with nonprofit organizations offering free resources you may not have had a chance to explore earlier.

Today’s lunch is made possible by our generous sponsor, Breast Cancer Index. Thank you for your incredible support!
Sponsors
avatar for Breast Cancer Index

Breast Cancer Index

Biotheranostics, a Hologic Company
Breast Cancer Index is Biotheranostics's diagnostic tool that is backed by both NCCN and ASCO guidelines to help providers and patients determine how long an HR+ Breast Patient needs to be on endocrine therapy as well as her risk of late distant recurrence.
Saturday April 11, 2026 12:00pm - 12:30pm MST
SoHo Ballroom
  SoHo Ballroom

12:30pm MST

Genetics & Family Risk: What Patients & Families Should Know
Saturday April 11, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm MST
SoHo Ballroom

Speakers
avatar for Cassidy Pedraza, MS, CGC

Cassidy Pedraza, MS, CGC

Genetic Counselor, Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Cassidy joined Ironwood Cancer Center and Research Centers in February 2025. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in psychology from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and her Master of Science in Genetic Counseling from Arizona State University. During her training... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm MST
SoHo Ballroom
  SoHo Ballroom

12:30pm MST

Tai Chi
Saturday April 11, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1

Speakers
avatar for Roxanne Reynolds

Roxanne Reynolds

As an advocate for healthy living, I have enjoyed over 19 years of teaching Tai chi and Qigong to people of all ages. Seeing the benefits and wanting to share them, I also give fall prevention presentations to help promote safer and healthier lifestyles.
 
I have a background in nutritional counseling and am certified through the Institute of Integral Qigong and Tai Chi as an integral Qigong and Tai Chi teacher with 200 hours of training. I am a senior trainer of Tai Chi Easy Practice Leaders and also hold accreditation in Tai Chi... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
  Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1

12:30pm MST

3D Areola Restoration After Breast Cancer: What Patients and Providers Need to Know
Saturday April 11, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2
Breast reconstruction often ends before a patient feels fully restored....
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jayd Hernandez

Jayd Hernandez

Paramedical Tattoo Specialist & Educator, Studio Conceal
Jayd Hernandez is a nationally recognized expert in 3D areola and nipple tattooing, specializing in hyper-realistic restoration for breast cancer survivors post-mastectomy. With more than a decade in the field and over 1,000 client procedures performed, she is known for delivering... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 12:30pm - 1:00pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2
  Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2

1:00pm MST

Managing Fear: Tools for Survivors and Caregivers
Saturday April 11, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm MST
SoHo Ballroom

Speakers
avatar for Jodi Puhalla, BSW

Jodi Puhalla, BSW

Social Worker, Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Jodi Puhalla obtained her social work degree from MN State University/Moorhead. Most of her 30 year career has been spent as medical social worker in hospitals, long term care, hospice and most recently as an oncology social worker with Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers.

A native of Minnesota, Jodi moved to the Phoenix area in 2020 to be near her grandson. After living in Asia for 5 years, she developed a passion for meditation and the healing arts. She enjoys supporting others through life’s transitions and assisting with the discovery of their bo... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm MST
SoHo Ballroom
  SoHo Ballroom

1:00pm MST

Guided Meditation to Let Fear Go and Bring in Joy
Saturday April 11, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
We'll be guiding you in a gentle journey of Mindfulness breath awareness, emotional release and opening the Chakras (energy centers in your etheric field) to promote emotional wellness and remember how to welcome in simple joy.
Speakers
avatar for Robert Lonsdorf

Robert Lonsdorf

A resilient multiple myeloma survivor, Robert channels his healing journey into empowering others. He is a dedicated yoga and meditation teacher and a skilled sound healing practitioner, creating nurturing spaces that support physical, emotional, and spiritual well‑being.
avatar for White Star

White Star

Internationally Acclaimed Psychic and Healer
Rev. White Star is a Spiritual Intuitive Life Coach, interfaith minister, spiritual consultant, spiritual energy healer and gives deeply intuitive Spiritual Counseling. She teaches a variety of meditations and helps people all over the world with caring and compassion.
Saturday April 11, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
  Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1

1:00pm MST

From a Blender to a Better You
Saturday April 11, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2

Speakers
avatar for Lauren Duda, RD

Lauren Duda, RD

Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Lauren was born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona and has lived throughout the Valley her entire life. She attended Arizona State University and graduated with her undergraduate degree in Nutrition (Dietetics) and a minor in Family and Human Development in December 2017. Lauren completed... Read More →
avatar for Brenda Gridley, RD

Brenda Gridley, RD

Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Brenda is originally from Los Angeles, CA where she attended California State University of Los Angeles for her undergraduate degree in Nutritional Science. She began her career with Kaiser Permanente in 2004. Throughout her professional development, she has worked in Cardiology and... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2
  Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2

1:30pm MST

Caring for the Caregiver
Saturday April 11, 2026 1:30pm - 2:00pm MST
SoHo Ballroom

Speakers
avatar for Patricia Bolivar, LMSW

Patricia Bolivar, LMSW

Social Worker, Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Patricia Bolivar, LMSW joined Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers June 2025. She has been a social worker for over 20 years primarily in the medical setting – inpatient hospital Oncology and ICU as well as outpatient Oncology and Hospice services.

She has a bachelor’s and a mas... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 1:30pm - 2:00pm MST
SoHo Ballroom
  SoHo Ballroom

1:30pm MST

Mindfulness Workshop
Saturday April 11, 2026 1:30pm - 2:00pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
This mindfulness workshop offers a calm, compassionate space for individuals. Through gentle breathwork, body awareness, and guided mindfulness practices, participants are invited to ease stress, support emotional regulation, and reconnect with a sense of inner steadiness. No experience is needed—just a willingness to rest, breathe, and meet yourself with kindness.
Speakers
avatar for Debbie Chamberlain

Debbie Chamberlain

Founder, Myndfulness Matters
Debbie Chamberlain is a passionate educator with over 20 years in education and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She is a certified mindfulness instructor, trauma-informed yoga teacher, Yoga Nidra guide, an Amen University Certified Brain Health Trainer/Professional... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 1:30pm - 2:00pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
  Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1

1:30pm MST

From Label to Table: Smart Shopping for Cancer Survivors
Saturday April 11, 2026 1:30pm - 2:00pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2

Speakers
avatar for Lauren Duda, RD

Lauren Duda, RD

Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Lauren was born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona and has lived throughout the Valley her entire life. She attended Arizona State University and graduated with her undergraduate degree in Nutrition (Dietetics) and a minor in Family and Human Development in December 2017. Lauren completed... Read More →
avatar for Brenda Gridley, RD

Brenda Gridley, RD

Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Brenda is originally from Los Angeles, CA where she attended California State University of Los Angeles for her undergraduate degree in Nutritional Science. She began her career with Kaiser Permanente in 2004. Throughout her professional development, she has worked in Cardiology and... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 1:30pm - 2:00pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2
  Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2

2:00pm MST

Navigating Cancer: Survivor & Caregiver Stories
Saturday April 11, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm MST
SoHo Ballroom

Speakers
avatar for Taylor Reed, LMSW

Taylor Reed, LMSW

Social Worker, Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Taylor Reed is a Licensed Master Social Worker and an Arizona native. She earned her master’s in social work from the University of Kentucky and holds a double bachelor’s degree in social work and psychology from Northern Arizona University.

Taylor has dedicated her career to supporting individuals and families through hospice care, crisis intervention, and serious illness support. She has experience in grief counseling, care coordination, and connecting patients with essential resources. Her passion is to empower indivi... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm MST
SoHo Ballroom
  SoHo Ballroom

2:00pm MST

Somatic Breathwork: Breathing Into Your Health Journey
Saturday April 11, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
Breath is the first thing we enter this life with and the last thing we leave with.  It is a part of our life force.  Join this experience to tap into the world of Somatic Breathwork with information and exercises to allow the mind, body and spirit to release what does not serve their highest good.  Learn to activate the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems and support...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for James Patrick

James Patrick

Director of Yoga Education & Student Advisement, Southwest Institute of Healing Arts
James Patrick is in the business of identity.  It is his mission to fuel passion, expose purpose and motivate actions that inspire a new ways of living and thriving through interactive coaching, empowerment workshops and personal training.  His motto is to “Make SHIFT Happen... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
  Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1

2:00pm MST

The Part We Don't Always Talk About
Saturday April 11, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2
Talking in a raw, authentic manner to caregivers, patients and health care professionals about the after.  When the winds calm.  When the treatment schedule quiets.  When everyone expects you to return to "normal", and you first realize that your former normal may not exist.
Speakers
avatar for Paul Wayne Pennington

Paul Wayne Pennington

Business Consultant / Adjunct Law School Professor, Author, Gut Punch: A Caregiver's Life After Normal
I wrote a book I never wanted to write.  It shines a light on a part of cancer almost no one talks about: what happens to the caregiver after the crisis appears to end.  Let's start a conversation.

Paul Wayne Pennington is the author of Gut Punch: A Caregiver's LIfe After Normal, a memoir chronicling the emotional collapse and steadfast resilience of a caregiver during his loved one's battle with aggressive cancer.  A law school graduate and entrepreneur, Paul has started c... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm MST
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2
  Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2

2:30pm MST

Closing Ceremony
Saturday April 11, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm MST
SoHo Ballroom
Courtney Fox will lead us through a closing ceremony with a gentle blend of mindful movement, calming breathwork, and guided intention setting. Designed to support healing and inner resilience, this practice offers space to release, restore, and reconnect with the body’s natural wisdom. Participants will be invited to set a personal intention they can carry forward as a reminder of strength,...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Alyssa Gofonia-Dinowitz

Alyssa Gofonia-Dinowitz

Founder & Executive Director, Chemo Companions
Alyssa Dinowitz is the Founder and Executive Director of Chemo Companions, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing love, compassion, understanding, and hope to patients undergoing cancer treatment.
Inspired by her mother, Marriann, and the experiences Alyssa witnessed during her treatment, Alyssa recognized a critical gap in emotional, practical, and holistic support for patients. What began as a deeply personal mission has grown into a compassionate community effort rooted... Read More →
avatar for Heidi Rula, MD

Heidi Rula, MD

Medical Director of the Supportive Care Services Department, Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers
Dr. Heidi Rula joined Ironwood in 2018 to launch the Integrative Oncology program. She is board certified in family medicine and fellowship trained in Integrative Medicine. Dr. Rula has been a practicing physician in the Phoenix area for over 20 years and has been recognized by her... Read More →
avatar for Courtney Fox

Courtney Fox

Courtney Fox Yoga

As an Arizona Native, Courtney cherishes the opportunity to teach and inspire people in her hometown. Courtney found yoga about 15 years ago, and the practice has transformed her life both on and off the mat. As a former competitive gymnast, she understands the importance of balancing wor... Read More →
Saturday April 11, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm MST
SoHo Ballroom
  SoHo Ballroom
 

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Saturday, April 11
Main Place Courtyard
SoHo Ballroom
Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2
  • Main Place Courtyard
  • SoHo Ballroom
  • Valley Ho Ballroom 1 - Breakout Room 1
  • Valley Ho Ballroom 2 - Breakout Room 2