For Phil Zielke, adversity came at him in the form of stage 4B Hodgkin’s Lymphoma — not once, but twice. Diagnosed in April 2004, he endured aggressive treatments and tested free of the cancer by October that year. In April 2005, doctors told Zielke the cancer had returned. After another round of treatment — this time including a stem cell transplant — Zielke was again cancer-free by November 2005.
He emerged from the cancer with his health, with a deeper faith and with a greater sense of purpose for his life. He would help others through their own fights with cancer.
While still in treatment himself, Zielke thought of the things that gave him comfort — his family and friends, his faith. He envisioned a group of volunteers who would support cancer patients physically and spiritually. And he created Phil’s Friends.
Today, the faith-based outreach program has a network of volunteers who pray for those battling cancer, send over 9200 supportive cards per week, and put together and send care packages to patients. The care packages include items to occupy the mind and comfort the body as well as Bibles to be spiritually encouraging.
Some of the team at A&A Paving were honored to be among the volunteers at this incredible organization in the month of January. While there we assisted in sending hope in the form of care packages, along with love and laughter in the form of cards that will be sent out to 39 different individuals battling Cancer.
Patients or their loved ones can visit the organization’s website, philsfriends.org, to request prayers, cards or the care packages.
