Meet the Boss

          “I like to create environments; I find great joy in creating environments where things can grow. We try to create an environment of peace so when someone comes in here, just full of unanswered questions, not knowing the future…they might find peace here at the Hope Lodge…if everything is in a state of excellence, people can relax.”

Danny Sheltz, Director Hope Lodge

            These are the words of the director of the Hope Lodge, Mr. Danny Sheltz.  He’s been in the director’s position at the lodge for about two and one half years now and feels as though he has found his calling in this world.  How he came to be here is an interesting story which I will briefly share with you.

            In 2010, his wife, Tammy,  went in for an annual physical.  At the end of the session, the doctor asked if there was anything else she needed to be aware of.  She responded, “well, yes, I have this tingling sensation here on my left side; but it’s no big deal….”  As the doctor examined her a strange quiet came over the room and the doctor immediately ordered a CT scan.  Called in the next day, she was informed that she had cancer!  Time stood still. 

            There was a softball sized tumor growing off the kidney and the fear was that it would attach to other organs. At this time, the Sheltz’ did not know the American Cancer Society (ACS) existed.  While visiting his local coffee shop, Danny engaged in conversation with the owner and he said, “Hey, my wife works for the ACS and I’d like to give you some numbers to call.  The support and information the Sheltz received from the ACS was phenomenal. 

            During the process of her becoming cancer free, Danny kiddingly said, “Hey Honey, when you get better, I’m going to quit my job at the church and get a job with the American Cancer Society.” 

            They still had to go through the anguish of waiting for surgery dates and treatments. Many were the nights his wife cried herself to sleep.  They felt very secure with their doctor who subsequently performed a five hour surgery.  He came out and said, “I got everything and was able to leave half the kidney.  The anxiety and anguish disappeared in a second. 

            Danny tried to return to the work he’d known for 22 years with youth and his heart was not in it any longer.  He gave the church four –months’ notice and quit his job with nothing lined up; until the same coffee shop friend told Danny that the director’s job at the Hope Lodge was available and maybe he should think about applying.  His skill set seemed ideal and the rest is history and he’s now been the director at the Hope Lodge since May 2011.

The American Cancer Society and the Hope Lodge seek these three goals:

Provide no-cost lodging to help alleviate the strain of travel and long-term treatment.

            Estimated savings of $2, 293,200.00 to guest in 2012.

Provide a strong support network and access to cancer information, resources and programs designed to enhance the quality of life of cancer patients and caregivers.

            99% of guests said that Hope Lodge provided a supportive, homelike environment.

Offer meaningful ways to stay involved with the Hope Lodge for the community, area survivors and former Hope Lodge guests.

            280-300 former guests returned to celebrate life at the 14^th Reunion of the Hope Lodge in Atlanta.

            This place works.  It is truly a blessing to stay here and to draw upon the commonality of experience from the other residents.  Their stories are similar yet different. When you say, I’m having a really bad day, they understand.  And they’re more than willing to listen.

            If you’re looking for a worthwhile cause, I unequivocally recommend the American Cancer Society and particularly, the Hope Lodge.

            Muggy and I walked back to the Candler Mansion this afternoon and then found a pretty waterfall. 

Nice crib huh?

           And, it was graduation night again this evening.  The longer we are here, the more difficult it becomes to say good-bye to our friends.  But, they are anxious to return to their families, friends and lives.  We will miss them.  And, the pot luck dinner was amazing!! 

the Grads tonight, Alex, Janet, Carolyn & Dick