On Wednesday May 20th, the Joe Andruzzi Foundation (JAF) made a visit to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, New Hampshire to surprise patients who are currently battling cancer. Co-Founder and Chief Engagement Officer Joe Andruzzi went around the infusion center in the cancer wing, chatting with patients, listening to their stories, and wishing them health and strength through this unfamiliar time.
JAF staff spoke with Wentworth-Douglass healthcare workers who helped arrange the special visit. We would like to thank Casey Carson, Social Worker and JAF Healthcare Council; Richard Visconte, Senior Director of Cancer Services; and Social Worker Angela Castonguay for being so helpful and welcoming. They guided Joe and JAF staff through various parts of the hospital, where they visited patients and briefly connected with several nurses along the way.
One family Joe spent time with during the visit had a particularly impactful story. Alex Clithero has been a patient at the hospital for the past 5 years as she continues her battle with breast cancer. JAF had the opportunity to speak with Alex and her ten-year-old son, Austin. Watching his mother undergo treatment inspired Austin to find a way to help others facing similar challenges. With support from his football team, he collected donations and assembled care packages to help make chemotherapy patients more comfortable.
As donations continued to pour in, Austin and Alex expanded the idea into a project called Hawks for Hope. Located in a storage closet within the hospital’s cancer wing, the donation-based store allows nurses to “shop” for items their patients may need. Stocked with everything from blankets to Girl Scout cookies, the small space is filled with donations designed to bring comfort, support, and a little brightness to patients’ days.
Alex and Austin had the opportunity to meet with Joe, talk about football, and share the inspiring story behind Hawks for Hope. What began as Austin’s desire to help his mother, has grown into a way for the family to support others navigating similar challenges. At the end of their visit, there was a heartfelt moment when Alex shared how the foundation’s assistance in February 2026 had brought much needed relief to her family during a difficult time. Families like the Clithero’s are at the heart of JAF’s mission – to provide them with help, hope, and a reason to smile when it is needed most.
Throughout the day, Joe connected with several families, exchanging smiles and laughter at every stop. The room became even more lively when he shared his Superbowl rings, letting patients and family members try them on and marvel at their substantial weight.
The most rewarding part of the day was watching patients connect with someone who truly understands what they are going through. Joe has faced challenges of cancer himself, allowing him to relate to patients in a unique and meaningful way. His willingness to share his experiences and offer support provides hope to those navigating not only the physical and emotional toll of cancer, but also the financial burdens that often accompany it.
JAF extends its sincere gratitude to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital and its staff for their warm hospitality and support throughout the visit. Their partnership made it possible for Joe to connect with patients and further the foundation’s mission. The impact of those conversations will not soon be forgotten.
