In May 2013, Teresa Walsh was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma in her jawbone and underwent treatment at The University of Kansas Cancer Center. Throughout her treatment and recovery, Teresa and her husband Tom experienced the impact of head and neck cancer, not just physically, but emotionally and financially. The Walshes recognized the real need in the Kansas City area, and across the country, to help head and neck cancer patients who may struggle with significant financial needs. In December 2013, they formed HNC Living Foundation to provide financial assistance for head and neck cancer patients to improve their treatment, recovery and quality of life. In July 2014, HNC Living’s 501(c)(3) application for nonprofit exempt status was approved and the Walshes hired the organization’s first executive director, Chris Uithoven, in June. Since September 2015, HNC Living has raised nearly $1,000,000 and helped more than 1,200 head and neck cancer patients.