setting the standard in cancer support since 1982

The mission of The Wellness Community-West Los Angeles is to ensure that all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action, and sustained by community.  All programs and services are provided free of charge. 

Dear Constituents of The Wellness Community – West Los Angeles (TWC-WLA):

I am writing to inform you that after more than 21 years of dedicated service to The Wellness Community-West Los Angeles and people affected by cancer, Ms. Michael States is stepping down as Clinical Program Director to pursue new professional opportunities.  Michael’s departure will be felt by all involved with our programs and services – from the participants who have had the pleasure of experiencing her in group or during guided imagery to the thousands of people who have benefited from the programs she created.  While she will be missed by many – her departure offers her the ability to explore new horizons and continue to fulfill her personal and professional goals. 

During Michael’s tenure, TWC-WLA has provided free, professional services for thousands of people affected by cancer, a great many of whom have benefitted directly from Michael’s special touch of care and knowledge.  Michael says, “Harold Benjamin, our founder, often said, ‘Nobody leaves The Wellness Community untouched.’  This truth applies to participants, staff, and anyone who walks through our doors.  For me, this is the greatest gift I have received from my years as a part of the TWC-WLA family.  I will be forever grateful to the participants and their loved ones who have allowed me to share their journey as they face the challenges and realities of lives impacted by a diagnosis of cancer has taught me how, despite a diagnosis of cancer, that life can be embraced fully.  To have been a part of the growth of the past and into the beginnings of new growth for our community as we move forward, is something I will treasure and carry into whatever lies ahead in the next phase of my personal and professional life.  I am grateful to the TWC-WLA Board of Directors for their support for and appreciation of my efforts to improve the quality of life for people affected by cancer.  I also want to thank all of the donors, staff,  and so many volunteers for your efforts on behalf of the participants, whose gratitude I hear daily and who would strongly wish for me to communicate their thanks to each of you for your part in making this cancer life raft possible.”

In addition to serving people affected by cancer, Michael has been instrumental in her work training staff throughout the network of worldwide affiliates.  Vicki Kennedy,LCSW Vice President, Program Development and Quality Assurance remarks on Michael's impact, "Michael States embodies the true passion of The Wellness Community, now the Cancer Support Community. Her commitment to ensuring that all people touched by cancer are empowered in their journey is profound. For nearly two decades, she has trained countless professionals in what it means to deliver the highest standard of care in community cancer support. Her legacy has changed lives and transformed a global organization and for that we are most grateful."  This sentiment is felt amongst Michael's colleagues.

We wish Michael well as she transitions into this new aspect of her life! 

Eric Salo, Chairman of the Board of Directors	Ellen Silver, Executive Director