Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation Marks 15 Years of Compassion and Community Impact

Bradenton, Fla., September 14, 2026 — The Florida Cancer Specialists (FCS)  Foundation will celebrate 15 years of helping cancer patients and their families across Florida at the 2026 Crystal Gala, an evening dedicated to honoring the Foundation’s legacy of compassion, community support, and life-changing financial assistance.

The Crystal Gala, themed “Reflecting on 15 Years of Compassion,” will take place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Armature Works in Tampa. The event will bring together physicians, community leaders, donors, corporate partners, volunteers, and supporters to celebrate the Foundation’s achievements and raise critical funds for cancer patients facing financial hardship during treatment. The evening will honor Lucio Gordan, MD, President and Managing Physician, Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute.

Since its inception in 2011, the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation has generated approximately $28 million in net revenue, including $15 million raised through its signature fundraising events, and provided financial assistance to approximately 12,000 cancer patients and their families, distributing nearly $20 million in grants and financial aid to help cover essential living expenses during treatment. These funds have helped patients pay rent or mortgage payments, utilities, transportation costs, and other necessities so they can focus on healing rather than financial stress.

Over the past 15 years, the Foundation has experienced remarkable growth. What began with annual revenue of approximately $184,000 has grown into an organization generating more than $3.3 million annually in support of cancer patients throughout Florida. The Foundation has processed more than 31,000 patient applications and nearly 47,500 assistance payments while building a network of more than 15,000 donors committed to helping families in need.

“The Crystal Gala gives us an opportunity to celebrate what our supporters have made possible over the last 15 years,” said Lynn Rasys, Executive Director of the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation. “Every dollar raised represents hope for a patient who is struggling to keep the lights on, make a car payment, or afford groceries while undergoing treatment. We are incredibly grateful to the donors, volunteers, physicians, sponsors, and community partners who have helped us impact thousands of lives across Florida.”

As the Foundation celebrates 15 years of service, its impact continues to grow through expanded patient programs and an unwavering commitment to meeting the evolving needs of cancer patients across Florida. More than 350 volunteers now serve patients in 62 Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute clinics statewide, while the Foundation’s Nourish Hope program has already provided grocery assistance to more than 600 patients and family members this year. In another milestone achievement, the Foundation recently increased its annual patient financial assistance benefit from $2,200 to $2,500 per calendar year, plus a $100 Nourish Hope grocery gift card. This enhancement reflects the strength of the Foundation’s donor community, responsible financial stewardship, and ongoing commitment to ensuring that patients can focus on treatment and recovery rather than financial hardship.

The impact of the Foundation is made possible through a unique model supported by Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute physicians, who cover all administrative costs so that 100 percent of donations go directly toward patient financial assistance.
As the Foundation celebrates this milestone anniversary, the Crystal Gala will serve as both a reflection on 15 years of service and a commitment to continuing its mission of ensuring that no cancer patient in Florida faces financial hardship alone.
To make a donation, volunteer, or learn more about the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation, visit FCSF.org.

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