JANET BURKLEY

Janet Burkley Founded in 1987, Common Cares began as a local Dallas support group for individuals dealing with the onset of cancer, as well as those who are cancer survivors. Janet Burkley, a breast cancer survivor, is the founding member of the organization and provides facilitation for the organization's support groups. Affiliation with Nancy Brinker and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation initiated Ms. Burkley's long-term involvement in health awareness. She received the Jill Ireland Award for Individual Volunteerism of the Year in 1991 from the Komen Foundation.

Common Cares Support Groups are geared to give cancer patients and survivors a sense of inspiration, hope and independence; which helps them to normalize their lives during cancer treatment and recovery. A primary goal of the organization is to empower cancer patients and survivors to take responsibility for educating themselves about their illness, various treatment options and finding the non-medical tools necessary to make the best decisions for continuing their lives, as cancer survivors, in a productive and positive manner.

In the late 1990's, a small group of supporters joined with Ms. Burkley to launch a planning and visioning effort which resulted in forming a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization in August of 2001. In the early years, the late 1980's – early 90's, support groups were essentially for breast cancer survivors. Survivors of all types of cancer are now involved in the caring strength of these common care groups. Additionally, support groups for the caregivers and/or family members have been formed.

The mission of Common Cares Cancer Foundation is to provide support, education, and motivational goal setting for cancer patients, spouses, and families. Emphasis is placed on bilingual facilitation when needed and special assistance to the indigent.