Volunteer Spotlight: Marlene Bocanegra, 2024 Volunteer of the Year 

Meet Marlene Bocanegra, our incredible 2024 Volunteer of the Year! Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Marlene has dedicated 22 years to serving the community as a  nurse for the county. She and her husband recently discovered their love for pickleball, and it’s quickly become one of their favorite activities.   

In August 2022, Marlene’s life took a turn when she was diagnosed with colon cancer. During one of her infusion sessions, she asked about support groups, hoping to connect with someone who truly understood her journey. 

That’s when she found CanCare, and she describes it as “a blessing  to be able to talk and share our journeys with each other.”     

Now, Marlene has taken her experience and turned it into a mission of love and support. As a first-year CanCare volunteer, she has gone above and beyond, taking on many other volunteers and making a meaningful impact. Her kindness, faith, and personal story have made her a highly sought-after mentor, especially as one of our very few Spanish-speaking volunteers and a colon cancer survivor. She’s passionate about being there for others, sharing stories, and reminding everyone: “We are NOT alone.”

Marlene’s commitment to spreading the love of the Lord and supporting other cancer survivors has inspired us all. Thank you, Marlene, for your compassion, strength,    and dedication. You are truly one of a kind!

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