Founded on the belief that there is more to cancer than chemotherapy and surgery, Stewart’s Caring Place gives cancer patients hope, helps them thrive and supports their entire families

By Laura Briedis

It’s been said that where flowers bloom so does hope. At Stewart’s Caring Place, hope is in full bloom and at the heart of all it does.

Founded on the belief that there is more to cancer than chemotherapy and surgery, this cancer wellness center gives cancer patients hope, helps them thrive and supports their entire families.

Inspired by Dr. Stewart Surloff’s struggles and triumphs during his cancer journey, his wife, Mimi, created Stewart’s Caring Place in 2004 to provide other cancer patients, their families and caregivers a relaxed and caring environment that offers supportive services and programs, from holistic care and fitness classes to support groups, nutrition consultations, art and music therapy, and a wig and beauty room—all at no cost.

Annual Hope Walk
To gather everyone together and show support for families touched by cancer, Stewart’s Caring Place is hosting its 16th Annual Hope Walk on Saturday, April 30, from 9 a.m. to noon.

“This year we are offering two options,” says Sarah Vojtek, chief development officer. “We are excited to host an in-person event at our center for a two-mile walk, along with activity stations and tours of our facility. And to make it convenient for all, participants also can pledge to do a virtual walk anywhere they want during the week.”

In the past, there have been participants from across the country walking on a beach, hiking up a mountain, or strolling around their own neighborhood.

“This is a fun family activity so we encourage anyone who wants to help us raise funds to walk as an individual or form a team,” says Sarah. “We are looking forward to growing this fundraising event, as we are now serving 18 counties throughout Ohio and helping more families on their cancer journey. The money we raise goes to supporting the more than 150 programs and services we offer at no cost for individuals and their families affected by cancer.”

Hope-Themed Art Exhibit
When Stewart’s new building opened in the fall of 2020, it was designed to provide a comfortable and relaxing home-away-from-home environment. Though it exudes a sense of calm, bright pops of color and artwork also make you feel energized.

A large mixed-media painting of a butterfly adorns the wall of the lobby when you walk in and sets the tone for the rest of the spaces in the wellness center.

“New this year we are showcasing local artists’ artwork in the hallways,” says Sarah, noting that first featured artist is Katie Mongoven, a fiber artist who focuses on abstract, geometric embroidery. “Our spring exhibit’s theme is hope and our fall exhibit’s theme will be transformation.

“We want to bring more vibrancy to our center while supporting local artists,” she adds. “We invite the community to come see the beautiful artwork.”

Spring Party: Sunday, April 10 , from 2 to 4 p.m.
Hop on over to Stewart’s Caring Place for some egg-citing activities, treats and more for the whole family. Reservations are required. Contact Allison Bailey at allison@stewartscaringplace.org to make a reservation.

16th Annual Hope Walk: Saturday, April 30, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. noon

Walk as an individual or sign up a team to help raise money to support families affected by cancer.

Meet at Stewart’s Caring Place in Fairlawn and loop around the center for a two-mile walk and partake in other fun activities. Or if more convenient, you can do your own virtual walk by your home or wherever you like.

Cost: $20 for individual walkers, which includes a Hope Walk T-shirt; $15 for virtual walkers. Sign up online at StewartsCaringPlace.org.

Stewart’s Caring Place is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The center is located at 3501 Ridge Park Drive in Fairlawn. For more information, call 330-836-1772. Check out StewartsCaringPlace.org for a comprehensive list of programs and services.