Inspired by the pivotal research at UMass Chan Medical School driving breakthroughs in cancer treatment—and by the excellent cancer care she’s received close to home—Shrewsbury resident Debra Paciello is an enthusiastic, longtime supporter of the UMass Cancer Walk.  

Superheroes of the UMass Cancer Walk, team Smile ... There's Hope!, has raised more than $80,000 for cancer research and clinical trials at UMass Chan Medical School since 2009. The team’s fearless leader, Elaine Urban of Grafton, is a longtime childcare provider who believes deeply in giving back to her community. 

Nearly four years ago, Phil Berube received life-changing news: He had Stage 4 prostate cancer that had spread to the bones throughout his spine and neck. Thanks to transformative advances in cancer treatment, what could have been a devastating prognosis instead offered possibility for healing and renewal.