Making the world better for a woman who always did
Nancy Rick-Janis is one of the greatest people we have ever known. Her kindness and thoughtfulness was truly unparalleled. She cared deeply for those closest to her, her community, and also about societal issues as a whole, in hopes to empower and care for the marginalized and underserved. She believed that there was work to be done in every community that could improve the lives of people everywhere - and that everyone has a responsibility to do their part. As a nurse, she worked to help those at their darkest hour recover and to give peace of mind to their loved ones. As a nursing educator, she trained hundreds on how to provide care for countless thousands. As a mother, she was a caregiver and a pillar of the community while supporting many volunteer groups that helped many. As a woman, she was a vigilant proponent of justice, a citizen of the world, and someone who took it upon themselves to lift up anyone and everyone she could reach.
She knew the importance of being actively involved in the community, something she learned from her parents who were public servants and community leaders, who were the first couple in the history of Illinois to hold public office together. Art and Helen Rick would surely be proud of the legacy continued by their daughter.
Nancy's courage throughout every part of her life has inspired us, and her recent battle with cancer was no exception. She was loved by the doctors and nurses who cared for her and a friend to her fellow patients. She fought as hard as anyone could ask and she is finally at peace, and no longer in pain. We are devastated, yet we know that her soul will live on within each us and that the legacy of her compassion and good work is eternal.
She was endlessly in love with and curious about the world. She used her curiosity, intelligence, and compassion to appreciate and support a wide variety of organizations that she knew needed assistance to make the world a better place.
We will use these funds to donate to the following organizations. Nancy supported more than 25 organizations annually and was a strong advocate for so many that it was difficult for us to select just one.
Planned Parenthood (Provides vital healthcare services, including cancer screenings, and protects women's reproductive rights)
Paralyzed Veterans of America (Advocates for healthcare, research, benefits, and civil rights for paralyzed veterans)
People's Resource Center (Provides emergency assistance through food and rent assistance, and long term services like education, tutoring, and job training to residents DuPage County)
Wellness House (A support center for cancer patients and caregivers- Nancy benefited directly from programs at the Wellness House including support groups, yoga, meditation and reiki, a salon, and educational programs about cancer diagnoses)
American Cancer Society (We could rely on the information from ACS on her diagnosis, treatment options, ways to prevent infection, questions to ask our doctors, and more. She received a wig from ACS programs and we called the help line many times. Beyond these resources, research from ACS can help us move towards a cure)
Emily's List (Encourages women to be involved in their communities and in political leadership and supports female candidates as they run for office)
Sierra Club (Fights for environmental justice, clean air and water, and protecting the outdoors)
National Parks Conservation Association (Supports National Parks through advocacy, education, and protection of National Parks)
Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana (Girl Scouts prepares for a lifetime of leadership, success, and adventure in a safe, no-limits place designed for and by girls)
Thank you for all of your support - not only in the last several months, but for the years of friendship and love that you have shown our family.
Love,
The Janis Family
