Although there are several foundations that grant charitable wishes for terminal adults, the Zeuner Foundation is unique in its recognition that cancer affects the primary caregiver and families too, not just the cancer patient.
The reality is that the caregivers often stop caring for themselves while focusing on the loved one. As a result, a caregiver may suffer from exhaustion, anxiety and depression. This is where the Zeuner Foundation can make a difference. By including the caregiver in its support efforts, it helps them ease the stress of tending to a loved one. The Foundation provides moments of restorative rest and buoyant pleasure outside the daily routine of providing care.
We believe that by supporting the caregiver in our efforts we are also boosting the quality of life of the terminal cancer patient. The benefits are immeasurable, as the destination or event helps shift the focus from the disease to creating memories and taking joy in life.
The inspiration for The Zeuner Foundation is its founder Robert Zeuner. Robert was diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic colorectal cancer in 2004. He was 39 years old. The foremost medical experts gave him 2 years, but he lived for 9. Robert’s love of God, family, and life, combined with his tenacious spirit and positive attitude fueled his determination to live life fully while he could. His strength was fortified by the love and support of family, friends, colleagues and his medical team.
Robert endured countless surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation as well as recurrent bouts of cancer throughout various organs of his body. On April 9, 2013, Robert lost his courageous battle with cancer. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, brother, son, friend and police officer whose life was cut tragically short.
It was Robert’s goal to become a living example that a terminal cancer diagnosis is not an immediate death sentence. Living a robust life is possible. Robert, for example, was an avid sports fan. Through the generosity of friends he was able to fly in a private jet to a Super Bowl game, watch the Knicks in courtside seats, meet NY Jets owner Woody Johnson, and attend games of his other favorite sports teams, the Mets and Rangers. He was able to take a cruise, attend Broadway plays and renew his marital vows in his church. His life embodied the motto of the Zeuner Foundation: “inspire, dream, live”
The Zeuner Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3). Our client referrals come from physicians at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and we are seeking to form a new relationship with a New Jersey cancer hospital.