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Giving Back: In Memory of Carol Green

Carol Green took life by the reins. Everything she took an interest in, from painting to cooking to horseback riding, she did to the fullest. As such, it came as no surprise that after learning she had colon cancer, she took an avid interest in learning more about the disease. Among her findings, she learned how preventable this disease was if only people got screened. When she realized many people could not afford screening, she wanted to help those in need. It was through her research that she discovered the Colon Cancer Alliance and its support services. She knew her gift would help strengthen awareness and screening programs and play a key role in preventing others from having to suffer with colon cancer. Carol’s early diagnosis was instrumental in helping her ultimately beat the disease.

Sadly, unrelated to colon cancer, Carol’s journey came to an end at the young age of 60 years. Her life was filled with accomplishments…far beyond her years. She was a successful businesswoman, entrepreneur, and world traveler. She took great joy in traveling, both alone and with friends, and took great pleasure in exploring exotic locales such as China, Africa and the Fiji Islands. She was always the adventurer.

Carol was also a recognized community leader. She believed that the St. Helena Hospital in St. Helena, California was an excellent institution that didn’t get the recognition or support it deserved. To raise the profile of the hospital within the community, she helped develop the President’s Forum through the St. Helena Hospital Foundation. The goal of the Forum was to provide health and wellness knowledge within the community and to increase funding for much needed health care programs. Through her hard work and dedication, she was instrumental in raising more than $40 million to support and develop new programs at the hospital.

One of her biggest passions was for horses. She loved horseback riding and learned from professionals on how to train and care for them. She loved everything about them. In fact, Carol pictured the perfect end to her life…when the time was right, she wanted to get on her horse, take her final ride into the vineyards…and have her horse come home alone. Upon Carol’s passing, her step daughter, Beth Green, said it best – “Carol got on her horse on September 9th. I know she’s out riding in the vineyards, enjoying the last light of an autumn sunset.”

Carol lived life to the fullest, did extraordinary things but always kept sight of what was important…giving back. And she did just that.  Late in 2010, the Colon Cancer Alliance learned of Carol’s death, and the gift she had left to the CCA. She believed in helping people and was an ardent supporter of ensuring screening was available to everyone, regardless of their financial status. With her extremely generous donation, we can help carry on Carol’s vision by increasing funding for colon cancer awareness and screening programs.

Because of Carol and her giving spirit, many lives will be saved. We at the Colon Cancer Alliance are truly grateful to Carol Green for what she’s given the organization. Her gift will leave a legacy of hope for colon cancer advocates and survivors for years and years to come.

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