A Spirit of Hope message from Sister Judith Ann Duvall, O.S.F.
“Our Sisters have found such comfort in the Spirit of Hope Mass for Cancer that has been celebrated at St. Mary Cathedral for the past several years each fall. “This year’s event is even more special for our Sisters because of the recent death of our dear Sister Diane Marie McGrew, O.S.F.” – Sister Judith Ann Duvall, O.S.F.
“Once again it is being planned for Saturday, October 5, 2024 with a concert by the tenor, John McDermott, beginning at 3:30 p.m. followed by Mass with Bishop Tylka at 4 p.m. We will be praying for all those who are on the difficult journey of dealing with cancer and their families who are in need of our support.
“This year’s event is even more special for our Sisters because of the recent death of our dear Sister Diane Marie McGrew, O.S.F., who fought bravely for five years a diagnosis of ovarian cancer and died on June 9, 2024.
Sister Diane Marie McGrew, O.S.F. (June 24, 1966 – June 9, 2024)
RESEARCH FOR THOSE WITH SIMILAR CHALLENGES
“Sister served as President of OSF Healthcare right up to her death and championed our OSF Cancer Institute, especially its engagement in research, that others facing similar challenges may benefit from new discoveries and new treatment modalities.
“Following her death, the Sister Diane Marie Gynecological Cancer Research Fund was established within the OSF HealthCare Breakthrough Treatment Center that was created to support all aspects of research that pertains to prevention, treating, and curing gynecological cancer.
“Our Sisters are so grateful for Dr. James McGee, radiation oncologist and Founding Director of the OSF Cancer Institute, whose vision brought this center to life.
At the 2023 Spirit of Hope Mass, John McDermott (center, back row), poses with (from left) Franciscan Sisters M. Faustina Chesnut, Teresa Paul Selamat, Theresa Ann Brazeau, M. Angelita Van Hoey, Judith Ann Devall, and Rose Therese Mann. Dr. James McGee is on the far right. (Sister Diane Marie McGrew was unable to attend due to her illness.)
“We are also so grateful for Mr. John McDermott who comes each year all the way from Canada and shares his beautiful voice to support this most worthy cause.
“We hope many will join us for the Spirit of Hope Mass for Cancer so that together, with God’s grace, we will lighten the hearts and lives of our brothers and sisters on this difficult journey.”
Sister Judith Ann Duvall, O.S.F.
Major Superior, Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis
Chairperson of the Boards, OSF HealthCare
