For Rachael Maccio, attending this year’s Cancer Chomp marked a personal milestone in her recovery journey. Two years into remission from a cancerous brain tumor, this was her first time attending Cancer Chomp in person, and the experience was both emotional and empowering.
While she wanted to attend last year, Rachael didn’t feel ready. She was still recovering, both physically and emotionally, from her diagnosis and treatment. This year was different. Feeling stronger and more prepared, she decided it was time.
“It was a very positive experience,” she said. “Everyone was wonderful, and it felt great to contribute back to the UF Health Cancer Center.”
The 2024 Cancer Chomp, hosted by the Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy and the Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Florida, drew an impressive crowd despite the challenges brought about by Hurricane Helene. More than 200 participants came together for the event on Saturday, Sept. 28, raising over $50,000 in support of critical care for adult and pediatric brain tumor patients at UF Health.
“Cancer Chomp is of vital importance in ensuring adult and pediatric brain tumor patients can get the treatment they need at UF Health,” said Jennifer St. Clair, LCSW, OSW-C, a clinical social worker in the division of pediatric hematology/oncology. “Because of generous donors, our patient support fund is able to help assist with lodging expenses while patients undergo radiation treatment.”
Cancer Chomp continues to grow each year, offering patients, families, and supporters a chance to come together, celebrate progress, and fuel the ongoing fight against brain cancer.
Rachael’s journey to fight brain cancer began in 2022. She started experiencing worrying symptoms, including muscle spasms, hair loss, extreme sensitivity to light, numbness in all four of her limbs, and frequent fainting at home, leaving her unable to care for herself. Each morning, she would wake up at 3 a.m. with intense stomach pain.
“I felt like my intestines were trying to make their way out of my body,” she said. “You know you’re sick, but you don’t know why.”
Her condition remained a mystery. Through her persistence, and the support and encouragement of her primary care physician, Rachael’s brain tumor was discovered.
By the time they found her cancer, she had seen 10 doctors in four months.
Acting fast, UF Health neurosurgeon Patrick P. Han, M.D., took her case and explained that surgery was her best option. The surgery was a major operation. It was followed by four months of mandatory bed rest and eight months of rehabilitation.
Neurosurgeons at the Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery at UF are dedicated to providing leading-edge, compassionate care for children and adults while conducting unparalleled research for neurosurgical conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord and nerves.
UF Health Neurosurgery uses comprehensive treatment programs, including minimally invasive surgical options for the treatment of brain tumors, neurovascular diseases, functional disorders and other complex conditions. The highly trained neurosurgeons use a patient-centered approach. Because no two individuals respond the same to any treatment, the multidisciplinary team of specialists provides highly individualized diagnostics and treatment plans. The goal is to provide the optimal patient experience.
Rachael’s medical team, including her UF Health neuro-oncologist Ashley Ghiaseddin, M.D., has played a vital role in her journey to recovery.
“Having the support of UF Health during my illness, along with their high standards of care and research, played a huge role in my recovery,” she said.
As she looks toward the future, Rachael hopes her story can inspire others facing similar challenges and remind them they are not alone.
Though Rachael has made tremendous progress, she still faces some health issues. She recently had to step down from her job as a zoological specialist due to the side effects of her treatment. She’s now focused on finding a new career path that brings her joy. Despite the setbacks, Rachael is determined to move forward and “find the good in the small progress.”
Attending Cancer Chomp this year was a key part of that progress. For Rachael, it was more than just participating in a 5K or meeting other survivors: it was about feeling understood.
“Going to the event felt really good because I was surrounded by people going through similar situations. When you don’t have a chronic illness, it’s hard to understand how far behind it can make you feel in life. But being around others who face the same challenges — you finally feel seen,” she said.
The 3rd annual event was a celebration of community, hope, and the shared goal of removing barriers to care for patients. Families and community members participated in the 5K Run/Walk and explored a variety of attractions, including a Kid Zone, mini therapy horses, and even a high-spirited appearance by UF Gator mascots and basketball players.
UF Health extends our heartfelt gratitude to the generous sponsors who made the Cancer Chomp possible. Thank you to Abby’s Corner, Bartlett Custom Homes, Bouchard Insurance, Brandon Construction Company, Climb for Cancer Foundation, Coast Buick GMC, Earthscapes, Elizabeth Pooley, Flagship Bank, Flip the Hourglass Foundation, Gainesville Health & Fitness, Hockman Family, InterTech Group, Lelekis Ellis Kilczewski, Nelson Construction, Phoebe Louise Dooley Foundation, Sparkgood, TDC Entertainment, UF Health Cancer Center, Visit Gainesville Alachua County, and WCJB TV20 for your continued dedication to this cause.
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Your gift to Cancer Chomp supports UF Health and the Lillian S. Wells Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Florida.