About Us

 

Hearing “you have cancer” is bad enough, but imagine wondering how you are going to continue to working to pay the bills, put food on the table, and even get to work! Cancer does not care, but we do and we are here to help.

Our Founders

Where It All Began

The Partnership for Gynecological Cancer Support had been a dream of its founding directors since their diagnoses of ovarian cancer. From the moment they began their “cancer journey” they knew that they did not want anyone to face the uncertain path that they found themselves on.

Debbie Torbett and Sue Sigmon-Nosach forged a 10+ year friendship because of cancer. Their friendship took them many places, allowed them to experience many things, meet many others quietly waging their own battles, and be a part of the indomitable spirit that says I will keep going.

Perhaps you met them… best known as the artistic team of 2 Broken Broads, they traveled the Southeast exhibiting their whimsical glass mosaics for all to enjoy while quietly raising awareness, educating others, and providing inspiration to all they met.

Although without her good friend, Sue continues to carry PGCS forward today by continuing their unique art form, raising awareness of GYN cancers, and assisting those in need.

Make a difference. Ease the burden.

DONATE NOW

Where the Money Goes

Hearing “you have cancer” is bad enough, but imagine wondering how you are going to continue to work to pay the bills, put food on the table, and even get to work! Cancer does not care, but we do and we are here to help.

Please take a moment to look over our stories to learn how you can make a difference in the lives of women and their families who are undergoing treatment. We hope that you will want to join in our effort and remember, your donation is 100% tax deductible.

PGCS Pretty Place

PGCS Pretty Place is a dedicated room within NGPG Gynecologic Oncology’s practice in Gainesville, GA. Here, the Partnership for Gynecological Cancer Support (PGCS) will continue its mission to help women undergoing treatment for a gynecological cancer by providing wigs, hats, and scarves to underserved patients at no cost to them.

PGCS donors have furnished the room in soft shades of teal, in French Country style. Women can visit the Pretty Place on their own or with a family member or- friend on a day they are already receiving treatment. Nursing staff in the chemotherapy suite identify patients and invite them to PGCS Pretty Place.

Northeast Georgia Medical Center is partnering with PGCS to ensure an adequate supply of wigs. PGCS also accepts donations of gently used wigs. Georgia l11stitute of Cosmetology will provide classes on wig and hair styling, as well as make-up, regularly.

PGCS Pretty Place will celebrate with a grand opening on Thursday, March 30th, 2023.

Opening the Pretty Place in the organization’s 10th year of operation has special meaning for PGCS founder and CEO, Sue Sigmon-Nosach. ”When I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2004, I felt ugly, broken and alone. I hope the Pretty Place will give inspiration to all women who have been diagnosed with a gynecological cancer.”

Making a Difference

Women Supported by PGCS

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

Since Inception

Interviews & Articles

Never ones to shy away from the subject, the Founders of PGCS and their Board and volunteers look for opportunities to raise awareness of the disease. Here is a listing of some interviews, reviews and articles.

For Sue Sigmon-Nosach, art imitates life (Pages 18-20)

Moxie Magazine | Fall 2016

Gainesville woman’s art, nonprofit offer tangible support to cancer patients

The Gainesville Times | September 20, 2015

Lanier Resident and Cancer Survivor Starts Business to Fight the Disease

Lakeside Magazine | August 2015

Savvy & Successful Women of the Northside

Points North Atlanta | November 3, 2014

"2 Broken Broads" Artists Form Ovarian Cancer Support Agency

The Gainesville Times | September 21, 2014
“I deeply appreciate your thoughtful gift, both for its monetary assistance & because it reinforced my life long belief that part of our job here on earth is to help each other as best we can. It was life affirming to know there are so many others that hold a similar belief.”
“We are thankful for wonderful organizations like PGCS.”
“Besides the concern of survival there is the burden of finances. Thank you for realizing this and doing something to help.”
“My family and I will always remember the love you showed us.”
“I know that faith and sheer determination can help anyone conquer their challenges after hearing her message.”

— K. Gerard

DEBBIE TORBETT 2/22/49 – 1/30/14

Co-founder and Vice President of PGCS – Debbie Torbett – succumbed to complications of ovarian cancer January 30, 2014. Hers was a 9 year battle punctuated by determination, grace, and dignity. Cancer did not define her, she simply embraced it as another “chapter” of her life and lived accordingly inspiring others, making new friends, and always smiling.

Debbie’s legacy is one of love and laughter…. and so much more….her beautiful family, her many friends, her art….and the Foundation she helped to establish to assist others that were traveling on the same path…..these – and so much more – were Debbie’s contributions to this world. To have met her and have been a part of her world was indeed, a privilege.

FAQ’S

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know that PGCS is a legitimate charity?
PGCS was formed as a 501c3 non-profit in 2013 and received their IRS designation in August of 2013. PGCS is a registered non-profit in the State of GA and all records are public. Our EIN number is available upon request.
Who does PGCS assist and how?
PGCS has aligned itself with the clinical nurse oncology navigators at NE GA Medical Center located in Gainesville, GA and the Northside Hospital Cancer Institute, Atlanta and Marietta, GA. These navigators select the patients whom they feel are most in need of financial assistance as outlined by PGCS guidelines. Assistance is given in the form of a gift card in the amount of $300; non-insured medications are also provided for those requiring assistance and one night’s lodging is given to those traveling over 100 miles for surgery.
Where does PGCS get money?
PGCS is a Non-profit organization that depends entirely on corporate grants, memorial gifts, general private and public donations, and one annual fundraiser to assist others.
Can anyone contact PGCS directly to receive assistance?
No. The nurse oncology navigators know those who need assistance and by their screening, the patient’s confidentiality remains intact.
Who runs PGCS?
PGCS has a Board of Directors consisting of a Chairman, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operations Officer, and a Secretary, all of whom have been touched by cancer. Terms are for a length of two (2) years. There is also an advisory Board who assists with various activities. The Board meets once a quarter in a calendar year or as necessary.