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Sally and Joe Jenkins’ latest gift pays tribute to the compassion of nurse advocates

Joe Jenkins’ first experience with VCU Massey Cancer Center was 25 years ago when his brother was diagnosed with colon cancer. Though his brother was treated out of state, Massey physicians helped connect him to the treatment he needed.

That kind of dedication to patients’ well-being impressed Joe. And though treatment was ultimately unable to save his brother’s life, Joe and his family recognized the promise that research held in the cancer field. That hopeful vision inspired him to say ‘yes’ when his friend and Massey volunteer Mike Gracik invited Joe to join him on the Massey Advisory Board. 

Now, for over two decades, Joe has passionately volunteered for Massey to ensure that Central Virginia cancer patients don’t have to go out of town, as his brother did, but can be treated locally and receive the best care available. 

It’s a calling shared by his wife, Sally, who has devoted many volunteer hours to Massey. For many years, she served not only as treasurer of the Massey Volunteer Program (MVP) – purchasing water and supplies – but also personally delivering these to patients being treated in the center’s Stony Point clinic.  Sally also represented MVP as a member of the Hospital Auxiliary and wrote their newsletter.

“It’s very important for patients to go to a cancer center that offers multi-disciplinary, coordinated care,” says Joe, who retired from his role as chief financial officer of an NYSE furniture company 24 years ago. “I’m proud that Massey can offer this level of treatment in Richmond.” 

That local access became even more important a few years ago when Joe’s own health issues led him to seek care at Massey. Physicians confirmed he would need surgery and – as he prepared for the procedure – he was introduced to patient advocate Denise Lynch, RN. “Denise was a lifeline, helping me navigate VCU Health and get the best possible care.”  

Recently, when a new health issue prompted the need for additional care, Denise’s colleague Sarah Shelton, RN, stepped in to assist. “Sarah is wonderful!” says Sally. “Sarah is always there for you when you need her, even on the weekends.” 

In addition to volunteering with Massey, Joe and Sally are longtime donors to the cancer center, having given more than $200,000 over the years to advance cancer research. This year, they wanted to use their gifts to show appreciation for the care they’ve received from these two caring nursing professionals. With a pair of generous $25,000 gifts, the Jenkinses elected to support brain tumor research – an area important to Denise – and lung cancer research, a disease that Sarah has helped Joe navigate.

“We have great admiration for all nurses at VCUHS – and especially for how Denise and Sarah have gone the extra mile for us,” says Sally. “We are so pleased to have the opportunity to honor their dedication and compassion with a gift that will help Massey advance research and treatment in two vital areas.” 

For Denise and Sarah, the tribute gifts are especially meaningful.

“These gifts to Massey Cancer Center and cancer research impact our work as well as the patients we serve by providing hope,” says Sarah, who’s wanted to be a nurse since she was a little girl. “It’s hope for these patients and their loved ones who are currently on the journey, battling cancer. It provides hope for those who will face it in the future. It is also hope for the providers and health care team caring for these patients. We all want to defeat cancer.”

Sarah Shelton, RN, and Denise Lynch, RN, have won the gratitude of many patients for their compassionate care.

Sarah and Denise have walked alongside the Jenkinses on good days and bad days. From sharing photos and videos of their dogs to discussing necessary appointment details, the nurses have understood the couple’s thoughts, feelings and concerns. It’s provided them the insight to know, “This lovely couple wants to help our providers and researchers find a cure to help others who may find themselves on this same path,” says Sarah.

Through both their service and generosity, the Jenkinses serve as an encouragement for Massey nation. 

“Sally and Joe Jenkins' longtime support and commitment to Massey Cancer Center, its patients and its caregivers are extraordinary – in the scope of their volunteer hours, their commitment to bringing financial partners and their own resource investment – to enhance the experience of researchers, patients and staff,” says Becky Massey, an advisory board member and advocate for the center. “Their commitment to the center continues to inspire and uplift us all!”

Written by: Erin Lucero