I recently had the honor of attending the official launch of the 2026–2030 Colorado Cancer Plan, a statewide roadmap that guides cancer prevention, treatment, and support for the next five years.
The kickoff was held at the beautiful new Intermountain Health Saint Joseph Cancer Center, which opened to patients the very next day. We toured this state-of-the-art facility and gathered with leaders from public health, hospitals, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations from across Colorado. I am pictured above with Lt Governor Dianne Primavera, and with Michele Shimomura and Ella Meyer of Trailhead Institute/Colorado Cancer Coalition.
I’m proud to share that LifeSpark Cancer Resources is featured in the new plan. View the plan HERE.
And truly — this recognition belongs to you.
Why This Plan Matters
Every five years, Colorado brings together experts, clinicians, survivors, caregivers, and community organizations to create a shared vision for reducing cancer risk and improving care statewide.
The new plan outlines eight major goals that address the full cancer journey — from prevention and screening to treatment, survivorship, and quality of life.
One goal speaks directly to the heart of LifeSpark’s mission.
A Strong Commitment to Whole-Person Care
Goal 8 focuses on improving the physical, mental, emotional, behavioral, and financial well-being of people affected by cancer.
This is not a new idea — it has been part of previous cancer plans. What is powerful is seeing this commitment continue to grow, with clear strategies for integrating supportive care across Colorado.
Goal 8 calls for:
• Greater collaboration between hospitals and community organizations • Education about emotional and mental health during cancer • Increased access to supportive services that improve quality of life • Expanded use of evidence-based complementary therapies • Clear pathways to trusted local resources
In simple terms, the plan recognizes that cancer affects far more than the body. It touches every part of a person’s life.
Where LifeSpark Fits
LifeSpark’s work directly supports this vision.
Through free Reiki and Healing Touch sessions — both in person and remotely — LifeSpark helps individuals and caregivers experience:
• Reduced stress and anxiety • Greater emotional stability • Relief from pain and treatment side effects • A deeper sense of calm and resilience during an overwhelming time
These sessions are offered at no cost so that anyone, regardless of income, can access this support.
This is exactly the kind of community-based care the Colorado Cancer Plan calls for.
A Moment of Gratitude
At the launch event, we heard from Lt Governor Dianne Primavera, a cancer survivor and longtime advocate, Michele Shimomura, who leads the Trailhead Institute and the Colorado Cancer Coalition, and other statewide leaders.
They spoke about the importance of partnerships between hospitals, public health agencies, and community organizations to truly support people living with cancer.
LifeSpark is proud to be part of that network.
And we are deeply grateful to you — because your support makes this work possible.
What This Means Going Forward
Being featured in the Colorado Cancer Plan is more than an honor.
It means:
• Greater visibility for the importance of emotional and supportive care • Stronger opportunities for hospital partnerships • More referrals reaching people who need help • Continued momentum toward integrating whole-person healing into cancer care
It is a powerful sign that the work you support is recognized as essential across Colorado.
CLOSING CALL TO ACTION
If you are a health care leader, community partner, or supporter who believes in whole-person cancer care, we would love to connect. Together, we can continue expanding access to the calm, strength, and resilience that every person navigating cancer deserves.
Warmly,
Sandy Priester,
Executive Director LifeSpark Cancer Resources
