The Haarlow Family — A Legacy of Hope Across Generations
For more than three decades, the Haarlow family name has been woven into the story of Wellness House. Their involvement began before our doors officially opened—around kitchen tables and early planning conversations with founders like Dorothy Ernest. What started with Blair and Lauren’s parents offering their support soon became a family tradition that shaped the future of Wellness House.
“Once Dad was involved, we were all involved,” Blair recalled. As a young graduate returning to Chicago in 1992, he joined the staff—working side-by-side with leaders like Bill Walker and Jeannie Cella. He hosted events, produced newsletters, stuffed envelopes, and forged lifelong friendships with board members and volunteers who shared the same passion for helping people with cancer find strength, knowledge, and community.
Blair went on to serve multiple board terms, eventually stepping into the role of Board Chair. Later, he joined the Foundation Board, where former board presidents helped guide the long-term financial stability of Wellness House. “I served whenever they asked,” he shared. “And I thoroughly enjoyed every minute.”
For Lauren, Wellness House was a constant presence growing up—Walks, Balls, celebrations, and countless moments spent at the House as a family. She remembers sitting in Blair’s second-floor office as a child, watching the work firsthand. By the time she volunteered during the 20th Anniversary year, she was ready to help strengthen Wellness House for the next generation.
Co-chairing major events throughout that year—including the Walk, the Ball, and a volunteer reunion—she helped usher in a new era of engagement. Lauren also played a pivotal role in the Wellness House rebrand, working with colleagues from Leo Burnett to develop the beloved “You’ll Feel Better Inside” identity that still resonates today. As Board Chair, she guided the organization through transformational change—including the transition to a new Executive Director and the extraordinary shift to online programming during COVID-19.
“It was incredible. Between a Friday and Monday, everything went online. Wellness House truly became Wellness Beyond Walls.”
The Haarlow family’s commitment deepened through their leadership of the Haarlow Legacy Circle, named in honor of a meaningful bequest made after Bob Haarlow’s passing. Their vision—and their belief in the power of planned giving—continues to strengthen the Foundation and ensure a sustainable future for free cancer support.
As we celebrate our 35th anniversary, we honor the many Lifetime Trustees, donors, volunteers, and supporters whose dedication has shaped Wellness House from the beginning. Blair, Lauren, and their parents exemplify this spirit of community—leaders whose decades of involvement reflect the collective commitment that makes our mission possible. Their story is one of many that demonstrate how shared generosity and compassion have sustained free cancer support for 35 years.
For 35 years, families like the Haarlows have helped thousands feel better inside. Their legacy reminds us that hope grows strongest when shared across generations—and that together, we can make sure Wellness House continues to change lives for decades to come.
Learn more about the Haarlow Legacy Circle.
