History

John Bargoot, MD with Lynn Hospital’s new linear accelerator, which makes radiation therapy a painless, 5-minute outpatient procedure.

Then

The Origins of Lynn Cancer Association

The Boston North Cancer Association origins date back to 1926, when Massachusetts launched the Cancer Control Program. This initiative aimed to establish clinics offering free care and educate the public about cancer symptoms. Citizens were encouraged to help organize educational efforts and raise awareness about the warning signs of cancer.

In April 1927, Lynn Hospital became the state’s second hospital licensed to have a cancer clinic. The Lynn Cancer Clinic operated weekly at no cost to the patient. The clinic’s Education Committee published numerous articles in local papers highlighting cancer symptoms and the importance of early detection.

By 1937, Mrs. Carolyn Engler led a campaign to raise $10,000 for the advanced deep X-ray therapy unit, resulting in its installation at Lynn Hospital in 1941—one of the first of its kind in the New England region.

Establishing the Lynn Cancer Association

In 1944, the Lynn Cancer Association was officially chartered as a charitable organization. Carolyn Engler became its first president, donating $30,000 to advance the organization’s mission. The newly formed Association focused on providing resources and support for cancer patients in the community, as well as funding social workers dedicated to cancer care at local hospitals.

During the 1950’s and 1960’s, the Association raised substantial funds to support hospital building projects, medical equipment purchases, and educational initiatives. Donations from private citizens and local businesses allowed the organization to expand its impact, enhancing cancer care and treatment options for local residents.

From the mid 1960’s to the 1980’s the 100% volunteer organization donated over $600,000 to cancer initiatives.

In 1966, the association made one of its largest single donations, funding a Cobalt-60 SuperVoltage Radiation Oncology Machine for Lynn Hospital. This machine, one of only two in Massachusetts at the time, marked a significant step forward in local cancer treatment capabilities and staying at the forefront of cancer treatment.

Expanding Advanced Cancer Treatment North of Boston

In the 1970’s, the Lynn Cancer Association continued to fund advanced medical equipment for hospital departments, including surgery, pathology, medicine, and radiology and funded educational programs for nurses, technicians, and social workers in oncology.

The Association contributed significantly to the construction of a new Radiation Oncology facility at Lynn Hospital, which housed a state-of-the-art linear accelerator installed in 1982. This facility brought cutting-edge radiation therapy to patients in the area, reducing the need to travel long distances for advanced treatment.

In the 1990’s, the Association prioritized funding for new screening technologies, including mammography and colonoscopy equipment at Salem and Lynn hospitals to improve early detection rates and standard of care available to local patients. It also supported programs designed to train medical personnel in advanced treatment techniques and initiatives that helped patients and families navigate the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.

In the 2000’s, the association established a Grant Program to support local groups, organizations and hospitals involved in cancer prevention, education, research, treatment, and care. Additionally, the association funded an Ultrasound and Prostate Therapy machine at Lahey Hospital in Peabody.

Now

Transition to Boston North Cancer Association

In 2011, the Lynn Cancer Association was renamed the Boston North Cancer Association, Inc. to reflect its commitment to serving communities North of Boston. The organization further expanded its grant program, awarding up to $50,000 annually, to GLSS Cancer Survivor Program, YMCA’s Live-Strong Programs, Care Dimensions, Detect Together, AYA Cancer Alliance and more.

Scholarship Program

In 2010, the association launched its Hope Begins Here Event, introducing three inaugural scholarships to support local students impacted by cancer:

The David J. Solimine Sr. Honorary Scholarship: Awarded to a high-achieving high school senior battling cancer.
The John F. Bargoot, MD Memorial Scholarship: Given to a medical school-bound student with a demonstrated interest in cancer treatment and prevention.
The Hope Begins Here Scholarship: For high school seniors affected by cancer, whether through personal experience or the loss of a parent.

In the years that followed, the scholarship program grew significantly, adding the Herbert H. Leventhal, MD Honorary Scholarship, Mary Barbuzzi Breast Cancer Memorial Scholarship, and Teri Hall Memorial Scholarship; and from the generosity of donor funded scholarships. In 2024, more than 20 scholarships were awarded.

Annually, Boston North Cancer Association presents the Hope Begins Here Award, to an outstanding leader and advocate for cancer treatment and prevention North of Boston.

Recent Milestones

In 2024, the Hope Fund, a new initiative aimed at providing support to local patients undergoing cancer treatment, started at Lahey Hospital in Peabody. The fund is established to help patients with a wide range of needs during cancer treatment.

Since its founding, the Boston North Cancer Association has remained 100% volunteer-run, ensuring 100% of every dollar donated goes directly to supporting our Scholarships, Grants and Hope Fund initiatives. Over the years, the organization has donated more than $2,500,000 to fund cancer-related medical resources, support services, and educational programs.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our generous donors for helping us fulfill our mission. Today, we remain steadfast in our commitment to making a positive and meaningful impact in the fight against cancer.