The Renzi Cancer Center at Guthrie Cortland Medical Center Receives $10K Donation

July 20, 2026
From left to right: Sheila Ossit, Director of the Cortland Memorial Foundation, with Frieda and Gary Weeks of Hope for Heather.
From left to right: Sheila Ossit, Director of the Cortland Memorial Foundation, with Frieda and Gary Weeks of Hope for Heather.

The Renzi Cancer Center at Guthrie Cortland Medical Center is proud to announce a generous $10,000 donation from Hope for Heather. 

The funds were provided in support of patients at The Renzi Cancer Center who have been diagnosed with ovarian or other gynecological cancers. 

Hope for Heather is a Syracuse-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing ovarian cancer research, promoting education and awareness, and providing comfort and support to women and families impacted by a cancer diagnosis. 

It was founded by Gary and Frieda Weeks in memory of their daughter Heather Weeks, who passed away from cancer at the age of 24. 

The check was presented to Sheila Ossit, Director of the Cortland Memorial Foundation. 

“Every time I meet with Gary and Frieda, I am in awe,” Ossit said. “The work they do to help others in their daughter’s memory is just incredible and inspiring. I am honored to know them, and so grateful that they have expanded their reach and generosity to the Cortland community.”

The partnership between Hope for Heather and the Cortland Memorial Foundation began in July 2024 and has since provided over $17,000 in assistance to patients in the Cortland community.