Every month, on the third Tuesday, we pause to acknowledge the things we’re grateful for – from the subtle shifts in the seasons to the joy of our pets, or even a simple, beautiful flower encountered on a walk. We encourage you to find your own moments of gratitude today.

This week, we shine a spotlight on Joyce Graves, a dedicated member of the NMCC Foundation board and a long-standing volunteer.

Joyce’s journey with cancer is deeply personal. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 1993, she has navigated surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and two subsequent cancer diagnoses.

Driven by a desire to support others, Joyce began volunteering with the cancer community almost immediately. In 1994, she became a “Reach to Recovery” volunteer with the American Cancer Society.

“I was raised to ‘give back’ and help other people,” Joyce explains. “We were taught to seek ways to contribute beyond monetary donations, using our talents, time, and energy. This principle has guided me throughout my life.”

Through the “Reach to Recovery” program, she provided one-on-one support to women facing breast cancer. Her commitment deepened in 2000 when she joined the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life, an event she continues to support. Additionally, since the opening of the New Mexico Cancer Center clinic in Gallup in 2007, she has been a dedicated volunteer.

The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted in-person volunteer activities, but following vaccinations in early March, Joyce and many others returned to the NMCC. For Joyce, returning to the NMCC felt like coming home.