This month, Brenda Librecz is soaking up the sunshine at Disney World, creating cherished memories with her 18-month-old grandson, son, and daughter-in-law. It’s a trip filled with joy, magic, and family moments—but just a few years ago, life was far from carefree.

“I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021, right in the middle of COVID,” Brenda shares. “There were no symptoms. It started with a routine Zoom call with my doctor, and that same day, I was sent for a mammogram. Things moved fast after that.”

Within days, Brenda was referred to SHN’s Centenary Hospital, where she underwent a lumpectomy followed by radiation treatment. Despite the overwhelming circumstances of a global pandemic, Brenda says she was met with nothing but compassion.

“The care was exceptional,” she recalls. “I was scared, but the staff treated me like gold. I’ll never forget it—during my biopsy, one team member held my hand while the other kept talking to me, keeping me calm. This was during peak COVID, when all were in full PPE. That kind of empathy stays with you.”

Now four years cancer-free and looking forward to her fifth-year scan, Brenda lives with gratitude—and a strong sense of purpose. That purpose found a home in Scarborough Women of Philanthropy (SWOP), where Brenda now serves as co-chair.

Leading with Heart

This year, Brenda’s co-chair is Denise Bacon, another longtime Scarborough resident and passionate community volunteer. The two have formed a powerhouse partnership built on trust, shared vision, and lots of laughter.

“I joined SWOP about three years ago,” Denise says. “I had helped with the annual Sip, Shop & Celebrate fundraising event, and when I saw the level of dedication among the women, I knew I wanted to do more.”

Like Brenda, Denise was introduced to SWOP by Marg Middleton. “She invited me, and that meant something. I saw a group of women making change—not just fundraising but advocating for better healthcare access.”

For Denise, what touches her most is SHN’s impact on real people and families. “Understanding the scope of SHN’s care across Scarborough makes you realize how urgent the need is. We all have a role to play in strengthening our healthcare system.”

Women Driving Impact

Women have always been caregivers, leaders, and community builders—SWOP powerfully combines those strengths.

“Women are a force for good,” Denise says. “When we lead in philanthropy, we lead with empathy, compassion, and purpose. That’s what SWOP is all about.”

Brenda agrees. “You don’t need to be rich to be a part of this. You give what you can—your time, talents, and treasure. And everyone’s contributions matter.”

Whether helping plan events, securing silent auction items, organizing logistics, or simply showing up—every act of volunteerism strengthens the SWOP mission. “And the friendships that form? They’re the icing on the cake,” Brenda says.

Join the Movement

Brenda and Denise are clear: they need more women to join them.

“We want younger women, women from all backgrounds, new voices,” Brenda says. “Scarborough is one of the most diverse communities in the country—we want our council to reflect that.”

This Volunteer Appreciation Week, we celebrate Brenda, Denise, and every member of SWOP for their tireless dedication to SHN and our community. Their stories remind us that healing doesn’t end when the treatment does—and that even after the hardest chapters, we can still write new ones full of hope, purpose, and, yes, even a little Disney magic.

Visit our SWOP website to learn more or email Brenda at thecommish60@hotmail.com or Denise at denisemarybacon@gmail.com.