It was Valentine’s Day sixyears ago, and Hinsdale’s BobKlinger had just recovered from prostate cancer surgery. He eagerly anticipated his first post-op outing: Wellness House’s annual Valentine’s couples dinner. Mother Nature had another agenda. “It was a blizzard, so they called all the couples and said, ‘We might cancel the event,” Klinger recounted. “I told them, ‘I will crawl there in the blizzard because I need this.’ They said, ‘OK, well, I guess we’ll have it.’ That’s how much I needed (Wellness House’s) support at that time.” Klinger will continue his practice of returning the favor by participating in this year’s Walk for Wellness fundraiser on Sunday, May 7.
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35 Years of Hope: A Reflection from Our CEO, Lisa Kolavennu
As we mark our 35th anniversary, I find myself reflecting not just on how far Wellness House has come, but on the thousands of people who have walked through our doors seeking connection, understanding, and support. Since 1990, more than 52,000 individuals and families have participated in our programs, each bringing their own story and finding their own path forward.
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.
You Are Not Alone
For 35 years, Wellness House has stood as a leader in supportive oncology—providing thousands of people with free programs that address the emotional, physical, and social challenges of cancer. At the heart of this work are staff members like Michael Williams, Psy.D., whose dedication and expertise help transform our mission into meaningful, everyday experiences for participants.