Stewart’s Caring Place and Aunt Susie’s Cancer Wellness Center Announce Merger

AKRON, OH (August 29, 2024 — Stewart’s Caring Place is thrilled to announce the merger with Aunt Susie’s Cancer Wellness Center in Canton, OH. This strategic union, operating under Stewart’s Caring Place brand, marks a significant step forward in its teams’ shared mission to provide holistic, compassionate care to individuals and families navigating the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.

Aunt Susie’s Cancer Wellness Center was founded in Stark County, Ohio, in 2012 by Marlene Mason, in memory of Sue Nixon Darling, who succumbed to ovarian cancer in 2011. What began as a volunteer-driven initiative quickly grew into a beacon of hope for those affected by cancer, providing vital support services to countless individuals and families. To pay homage to its founder and history, its new name will be Stewart’s Caring Place: Aunt Susie’s Cancer Wellness Center and operations will continue seamlessly at its Canton location.

Similarly, Stewart’s Caring Place was born out of a deeply personal experience with cancer by Mimi Surloff in honor of her husband Dr. Stewart Surloff, a podiatrist from Akron who was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2001. Their vision of a supportive environment for those without a built-in support network led to the establishment of Stewart’s Caring Place in 2003. 

“With the full support of both Boards of Directors, we’re honored to have Aunt Susie’s Cancer Wellness Center part of the strong Stewart’s Caring Place community,” shared Sarah Vojtek, President & CEO. “By leveraging our collective expertise and resources, we are better positioned to meet the evolving needs of the cancer community in the counties we serve. Together, we can extend our reach and impact, serving more counties across Ohio and offering enhanced support to a broader community.”

The merger will enable the combined organization to provide an expanded array of programs and services, including wellness workshops, support groups, caregiver assistance, and companion programs, with new participants always welcomed and encouraged. Its holistic approach will continue to encompass emotional, physical, and practical support for cancer patients and their families, ensuring that no one faces this journey alone.  

“As a retired oncologist, I have referred countless patients to Stewart’s Caring Place over the years,” shared Dina K. Rooney, MD, current Executive Director of Aunt Susie’s Cancer Wellness Center. “When I approached them about this potential partnership, I emphasized how this merger would allow us to extend our resources even further, particularly in Stark County, and maximize the impact of the generous contributions we receive. Rest assured, the legacy and heart of what we’ve built together will remain intact, and we are excited to embark on this new chapter with your continued support.”

For more information about the merger and how you can get involved, please visit StewartsCaringPlace.org or contact Sarah Vojtek at 330-836-1772.