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Chemocessories Reaches 10,000-Set Milestone

Jul 08, 2021 08:16AM ● By Mb News Staff
The Manhattan Beach-based Chemocessories nonprofit, which provides free sets of scarves, turbans, and jewelry to women going through chemotherapy, has distributed its 10,000th set of accessories.

Chemocessories, founded by Iris Lee Knell, L.C.S.W., after her own battle with breast cancer, has reached women from Maine to Montana over the past ten years.

“When I started this nonprofit ten years ago my goal was to bring joy to women and lift spirits during their tough times dealing with cancer and chemotherapy treatment," said Knell. "I’m thrilled that we have been able to do that for so many and reach this awesome milestone of 10,000 sets. It would not have been possible without the fantastic support of our community.”

Chemocessories is 100% volunteer run and relies on a committed network of volunteers, donors and local business partners. Key volunteers include several members from the Neptunian Woman's Club of Manhattan Beach, who meet weekly at Chemocessories headquarters to assemble the sets. Passionate supporters from around the country have contributed new and gently used scarves and jewelry as well as much appreciated cash donations.


Local business partners include Patterson Cleaners, which offers complimentary dry cleaning along with Manhattan Repro, which donates printing services.

One recent recipient, Sheila C., expressed her gratitude this way: “I received my Chemocessories package in the mail yesterday and wanted to say it uplifted me so much. I have been diagnosed with breast cancer and completed 6 rounds of chemotherapy…Your package was so thoughtfully put together… I love the little heart sticker, the gold paper… the turban, scarf, the necklace, the bracelet… I love the stones with messages of, Strength, Courage and Hope. I just want to say thank you. Have a blessed day, and thank you for being a blessing to me.”

Chemocessories accepts donations of money, accessories, and time. It also accepts requests for those who want to send a set to a woman going through chemotherapy. To learn more, visit Chemocessories.org.

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