Our Work

Relief Today, Hope for Tomorrow

At Ray of Hope Cancer Foundation, we ensure that Coloradans facing cancer never have to choose between life-saving treatment and life’s essentials. Through direct financial assistance, we help patients cover critical expenses like housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation. Our mental health support program connects patients, caregivers, and families with licensed professionals—offering emotional strength and stability during an incredibly difficult time.

Since 2002, Ray of Hope has awarded more than 11,000 grants, provided over $7.1 million in assistance, and supported patients in all 64 Colorado counties.

Our Mission

To respond to the urgent needs of Coloradans with cancer by providing financial assistance

and mental health support with dignity and humanity.

Our Story

It was 2002 when Raymond Wentz first visited Dr. Schrier, suffering from night sweats, fever, and weight loss. Ray was quickly diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and started chemotherapy. At only 17-years-old, Ray was a special case. His mother had passed away, his father lived on the streets, and he and his sister struggled to pay rent for their apartment—students at Sheridan High School working at King Soopers to pay the bills and buy groceries.

Ray always had the brightest smile on his face and never complained.

One morning, after months of treatment, Ray called the doctor’s office with a 103-degree fever. Despite nurse’s orders to come in immediately, Ray didn’t arrive until 4 pm—pale, weak and still running a high fever. When pressed by the nurse why he hadn’t come in right away, he simply replied, “I did. I had to ride my bike.”

Raymond and Michelle

Ray was admitted to the hospital and seen by multiple specialists over the course of a 60-day stay. It was apparent that Ray wasn’t suffering from an infection or complication of chemotherapy; unfortunately, he was experiencing the progression of his cancer. It was at this point Dr. Schrier met with Ray’s 19-year-old sister, Michelle, about Ray nearing the end of life. With the same grace her brother showed throughout life, Michelle responded, “I want to take him home.” Dr. Schrier looked around the room at the numerous IV poles and at 76-pound Ray and asked, “Are you sure you can handle this?”

Michelle replied, “Yes. The only thing we have to worry about is food.”

Those words both haunted and motivated Dr. Schrier. He was moved to create the Foundation and make a difference in the lives of needy cancer patients throughout Colorado. We are proud to be named for Ray – a courageous teenager who inspired those around him with his bravery and grace. The work we do today allows his positivity and light to shine on.

Patient Testimonials

"Thank you so very much for supporting me in a time when I felt very defeated. I am someone who enjoys helping others, and now I know how it feels to be on the receiving end of help when you really need it. It’s difficult to receive, and not as enjoyable to have to ask for help! At a time when I felt very small, weak, and vulnerable, it helped me believe in myself to know that someone else, who doesn’t even know me, believes in me. The “Ray of Hope“ Cancer Foundation is a great name! That is exactly what this grant gave me… A ray of hope… Which is really all that I needed to pull me through this! Thank you again for believing in me and supporting me."

"I faced every challenge imaginable within a month after being diagnosed. I was no longer able to work and barely able to walk most days. My heart broke every time I saw my kids and all I could do was pray I things were gonna be okay. When I received the grant from Ray of Hope, I was able to catch up my rent, insurance, and utilities. I was even able to take my kids to see the new Avengers movie for a little fun! Thank you from the bottom of the heart for the incredible generosity. Receiving this grant is a true blessing, and having that support has made it easier to get through this difficult time. My family can't express how much it meant to have the support you've given!"

"Words truly cannot capture the depth of gratitude we feel for the assistance provided through your generous support. During a time when our family faced multiple daunting challenges with TJ's health and the accompanying financial strain, Ray of Hope stepped in as a beacon of support and relief. Your contributions have not only helped alleviate the financial burden but also provided us with invaluable peace of mind, allowing us to focus on what truly matters—being present for TJ and ensuring he receives the best possible care. This grant has been more than just financial aid; it has been a lifeline, reminding us that we are not alone in this journey. Your kindness, compassion, and generosity have made a profound impact on our lives, and for that, we are eternally grateful."

"To get through this time, it’s just such an unknown and you want to give it your all in terms of the treatment, but you also worry extensively about the cost. And so, I thank my supporters with Ray of Hope for their generosity and for helping me in my recovery of cancer, though I’m still in treatment I know that the day will come that I will have recovery. Thank you for making the journey easier for me and my family. It meant so much because I really truly would say that you just don’t know. You don’t know what you’re going to need. How much it's going to be and the extent of it all it’s so overwhelming. I hope Ray of Hope stays around for a long time for people like me because I know there are many, many people with cancer. To have this type of support is so important to each family and individual. Thank you so much."

Our Impact Over the Years

2024 Impact Report

923 Patients Served | $625,330 Awarded
45/64 Counties Served

Read the full report here

2023 Impact Report

885 Patients Served | $770,000 Awarded
63/64 Counties Served

Read the full report here