If you’ve never heard of Chemo Buddies, you’re not alone. For those who have, recognizing the name is one thing, understanding the support they provide is another. That gap in awareness is exactly what Chemo Buddies is working to change, because what happens in treatment rooms, waiting areas, and the quiet in-between moments deserves to be seen.

The beginning is always a great place to start. When Karen Wilhite Williams first received her cancer diagnosis, her thought was simple: "I can do this on my own. I don’t want to bother anyone." Somewhere between appointments, and the reality of what those long hours actually feel like, that mindset shifted. Sitting in a treatment room is one thing, sitting there alone is something else entirely. When Karen's cancer returned, her sister, Jill Kincaid sat beside her during chemo treatments. In the middle of fear, uncertainty, and the steady hum of machines, the two talked, not about what was happening, but what could be different? What if the chemo room could feel less intimidating and clinical? What if it could feel, even in the smallest way, more human, and hopeful? 

Today, Chemo Buddies is a nonprofit organization that provides emotional support, comfort, companionship, heart and humanity to people undergoing chemotherapy and other cancer treatments.

In the video below, Jill shares their journey and the idea that became Chemo Buddies.   

When Karen passed in 2011, the grief was profound, but it was through that loss that her legacy began to take shape in ways no one could have imagined. 

Just three weeks later, without a roadmap for growth or thoughts of reaching hundreds, Jill founded Chemo Buddies with a simple hope of making a a difficult journey a little softer for those walking it. Jill was determined to turn compassion into something tangible for those who needed it most. 

The growth of Chemo Buddies has been phenomenal. Fifteen years later, Chemo Buddies serves around 300 patients every weekday across the community. When a volunteer walks into a treatment room wearing that signature yellow apron, it means something simple, but powerful; someone is there! Chemo Buddies volunteers bring more than snacks and blankets, they bring companionship, comfort, and hope. Someone who is fully present, ready to sit beside you in the hard moments, and a steady reminder that no one has to face cancer alone. Chemo Buddies volunteers help turn even the hardest days into ones that feel just a little less heavy.

    "Because no one should ever have to go through chemo alone."        Karen Williams

What about life outside the treatment room? I'm so glad you asked. Chemo Buddies provides a variety of programs including but not limited to: Shuttle Buddies (Provides Rides for Cancer Patients), The Mermaid Squad (A community of women survivors and caregivers who gather for fun, connection, and shared experiences), Man-Up to Cancer (A supportive community where men can connect, share experiences, and find strength together), Parent Buddies ( Encouragement and support for parents diagnosed with cancer who have young children. and Karen's Wig Shop (Offers free wigs and accessories to women experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatment).

Milestones matter, even the quiet ones and that is why Chemo Buddies is also there to help with things people don't always think about until they need them, like skincare, that first bit of makeup for the day you're ready to step back out into the world again, professional photos offered along the journey, and so much more.  

HOPEFEST

15th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

5k FOR HOPE

Through every story, every smile, and every moment, Chemo Buddies is there to provide hope, connection, and steady support every step of the way. Learn more at chemobuddies.org

Until Next Time ~ Sip~Laugh~Repeat