The Judith C. Macko Cancer Resource Center, a support space for cancer patients and their families, has found a new home in the Freytag Cancer Center at the AdventHealth Palm Coast campus.
Previously located inside the hospital, the space offers free resources, including wigs, specialized bras, hats, and comfort items, to help patients navigate their cancer journey with dignity and support. Supplies for the center are supported by ongoing donations from the community to the AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation.
The center is named after Judith C. Macko, who passed away from breast cancer more than 20 years ago. Her husband, George Macko, a Palm Coast resident, donated the funds to build the center.
“We started quite a few years ago and wanted to do something in memory of my wife, who had suffered from breast cancer,” said Macko. “Cancer has affected our family so much. My mother, my dad, my sister, myself, and Judy. To see this new center here at Freytag Cancer Center is really unique and really moving.”
Macko shared his appreciation for the new facility and the team who worked to bring the vision to life.
“It blew me away. The size and the effort; the whole facility is gorgeous,” said Macko. “As our community grows, the need for our health care community grows too. This wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible volunteers. I can’t believe the job they’ve done to put this together.”
Lisa Bordis, senior manager of volunteer services and the gift shops at AdventHealth Palm Coast and AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway, played a key role in transitioning the resource center to its new location.
“It was a labor of love. Our cancer resource center provides our patients with things they may not have or can’t afford,” Bordis said. “Personally, taking on this task was challenging at times, but it is one of the most rewarding things I have been a part of during my eight years at AdventHealth. I think the community will enjoy having this space. It’s not something that is offered elsewhere.”
The Freytag Cancer Center, which opened earlier this year, provides both cancer treatment and primary care services and was designed to meet the growing needs of Flagler County and surrounding areas.
