Fundraiser For Cancer Fight Honors Late Evergreens Staffer

Mary Ellen Ross was an inspiration to everyone around her.

Even after she was diagnosed with breast cancer in Nov. 2007, and even after she lost her fight with it in Aug. 2008, she remained a source of pride and strength for those who remembered her.

“The measure of Mary Ellen’s life lies within her character and the legacy she has left,” said Doug Halvorsen, president and chief executive officer at retirement community, where Ross served as vice president of health services. “Her optimism, her joy, her humor, her courage, her passion and her love—these are all things we miss now that she is not part of our daily lives. But these are also things we will always remember about her.”

To commemorate her spirit, and raise money to battle the disease that took her life, supporters of the “Ross’ Racers”—a group of Evergreens staff members, family and friends who take part in the America Cancer Society’s “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” Walk—will be holding a benefit car wash from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at The Evergreens.

The car wash is the first in a series of fundraising events being held at the retirement community to raise money for the Ross’ Racers. The team’s goal is to raise $7,500 this year.

At the onset of her illness, friends said Ross was always thinking about how her experiences could make things better for others. She participated in cancer awareness events and openly discussed her experiences.

“The strength which Mary Ellen displayed throughout her illness has been an inspiration to us all at The Evergreens,” said Dakia McMillian, director of health services, nursing and privacy, in a release about the event. “It’s through Ross’ Racers that we here in the community are continuing her fight.”

The car wash is priced at $5 per car. Special activities will be provided and refreshments will be available for purchase.

The Evergreens is located at 309 Bridgeboro Road.

For more information about the Ross’ Racers, visit the team’s website at http://makingstrides.acsevents.org or contact Lauren Coleman, director of recreation and wellness at The Evergreens at lcoleman@evergreens.org or 856-439-2052.

The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk will be held on Oct. 23 in Pennsauken.