Special
Feature
The 1ST Annual Pink Pioneer List
Ann Fonfa, was diagnosed with breast
cancer in Jan.1993 while suffering from
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity. She chose
not to have chemotherapy or radiation in
order to remain at her healthiest. She sought
and found many alternative treatments,
founding the Annie Appleseed Project to
share it all. This all-volunteer nonprofit hosts
Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Cancer Therapies aka CAM for Cancer
conferences. Their eighth event will be held
in West Palm Beach, FL in 2014.
“I believe there are many paths to wellness but ALL of them involve eating more fruits
and veggies, being physically active, learning to relax and enjoy life, perhaps a little
detox, and certainly some dietary supplements. I founded an organization devoted to
providing information on all of this.” —Ann Fonfa
Maria Gemma Corcelli is the eldest daughter
of Gloria Gemma, for whom the Foundation is named.
Although she received a B.A. from Providence College,
she believes her best education came from her upbringing,
and the strong work ethic her parents instilled in her and
her eight brothers and sisters. Maria Gemma Corcelli is
the executive director of the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer
Resource Foundation in Rhode Island. She co-founded the
foundation with her youngest brother, Anthony and Rebecca Gamage. Maria’s mother was diagnosed with stage-4
breast cancer in 2001 and her passing led to the creation
of the foundation in 2004. The Foundation has a Resource
& Wellness Center with numerous programs and services
for people living with breast cancer, including funding
programs at area hospitals. The Foundation also fulfills its
mission with the Hope Bus—a 38-foot long residential-style
vehicle (RV), providing awareness, education and support
to underserved populations in Rhode Island.
“There is not a day that goes by that I do not feel blessed
to be carrying on the mission of the foundation, in my
mother’s memory. I feel her spirit in every person that we
are able to help.” — Maria Gemma Corcelli
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THE PINK PAPER
Fall 2013
www.thepinkpaper.com