Bringing Warmth and Comfort: Southwest Gas Employee Volunteers Assemble Chemo Care Kits

On Saturday, August 23rd, the Carson Tahoe Cancer Resource Center was filled with incredible energy and compassion as 30 dedicated volunteers from Southwest  Gas partnered with us to assemble 100 essential Chemo Care Kits. The event was part of Southwest Gas’ BLUE – Building Lives Up Everywhere program, which encourages Southwest Gas employees to volunteer their time to support local nonprofits and uplift the communities where they live and work. This heartwarming event exemplified community spirit, bringing together individuals committed to providing comfort and encouragement to those undergoing cancer treatment.

A Partnership for Hope: Southwest Gas employees proudly joined forces with Carson Tahoe’s Cancer Resource Center, understanding the profound impact that a little extra warmth and support can have during a challenging time. Both organizations contributed items, and together, we created kits designed to bring a sense of ease and care to patients.

What’s Inside a Chemo Care Kit? Each of the 100 kits was thoughtfully assembled, packed with items aimed at supporting patients both physically and emotionally. These items have been donated from CTH volunteers and BLUE. The contents reflect a deep understanding of the needs that arise during treatment, including:

• Hand Lotion: To ease dry hands, a common side effect of treatment.
• Handwritten notes of encouragement: Messages of hope and solidarity from the volunteers. (Volunteers also had the option to prepare these notes ahead of time!)
• Handmade port seat belt covers: to make car rides more comfortable
• Handmade beanies: For comfort during appointments and on the go.
• Handmade warm/cold packs and purchased cold packs: For soothing relief from aches and discomfort.
• Sudoku puzzle books: To uplift spirits and provide a gentle distraction.
• Stress balls: To relieve any hard feelings throughout treatment.

Every item included makes a tangible difference, and every kind word shared truly matters. The collective effort Southwest Gas employee volunteers, their family members, and Carson Tahoe staff brought strength and comfort to 100 individuals who need it most.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the wonderful Southwest Gas employee volunteers for their time, dedication, and generosity. This partnership underscores the power of community in making a real impact on the lives of our patients.