Impact
The Beyond the Rainbow Fund: Anne-Marie Viviano Builds a Legacy of Giving Back to Local Cancer Patients
The Beyond the Rainbow Fund was founded in 2002 by Anne-Marie Viviano, a former Exeter Hospital patient and resident of Hampton, NH. After being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer at the age of 30, Anne-Marie attended support groups at Exeter Hospital while receiving cancer treatment. During this time, she met many individuals who struggled with meeting expenses related to their care. Realizing the importance of relieving individuals of stressors so that they could better focus their energy on healing their bodies and minds, Anne-Marie created The Beyond the Rainbow Fund to help provide financial assistance and additional support to local cancer patients in need.
Since its inception, this fund has become a valuable resource to cancer patients at Exeter Hospital. The Beyond the Rainbow Fund has provided air conditioners for lung cancer patients; assisted with rent and fuel payments; purchased canes, walkers, and wigs; and provided assistance with other practical needs that may become unmanageable for patients and their families during treatment. As a result of ongoing community support, The Beyond the Rainbow Fund now helps provide integrative therapy, such as massage and wellness/fitness programs, that further assists patients in their fight against cancer. Anne-Marie strongly believed in the power of the mind and body over one’s healing.
In May of 2009, Anne-Marie passed away after a 14-year courageous battle with breast cancer. Her remarkable journey, courage, and resilience of spirit continue to give hope to many people. Her vision and commitment to give back to the local cancer community continues through The Beyond the Rainbow Fund. Today, many of Advancement’s community events, as well as donations from caring community members, benefit The Beyond the Rainbow Fund.
Dan Smith: Grateful for the Support of the Beyond the Rainbow Fund
Dan Smith of Hampton was diagnosed with cancer in 2019. A type 1 diabetic, he ended up in the emergency room with ketoacidosis and a subsequent x-ray revealed cancer all over his body. His wife Carolyn likened the image it to “shotgun blasts.” He was immediately started on immunotherapy, but following his first treatment, he suffered a stroke and limb paralysis.
While all this was happening, Carolyn realized they were behind in major bills, including their mortgage. After being approached by Exeter Hospital’s Center for Cancer Care staff about The Beyond the Rainbow Fund, they filled out an application and received a grant that saved their home from foreclosure.
Dan and Carolyn were so grateful for the support from BTR that they are now committed to helping families like theirs. We are happy to embrace them as part of our Beyond The Rainbow Fund family.
Kathy's Story: I Have to Give Back
When Kathy Kerrigan was diagnosed with cancer in 2007, her focus was on her health and her family. As a mom to four boys, cancer and its complications were a frightening challenge. She knew she was in the hands of highly-trained experts, but her care at Exeter Hospital impacted more than just Kathy’s health. One by one, each person she encountered throughout her treatment showed genuine compassion and friendliness that put her at ease. From the doctors to nurses to the person who would push her wheelchair, she felt an entire hospital rally behind her.
“The good I saw, and the humanity I witnessed during my diagnosis and treatment was overwhelming,” says Kathy. It compelled her to act. “I have to give back. What I can do?” In 2008, she launched Kathy for a Cure, a day-long exercise event. Proceeds benefitted a number of causes at Exeter Hospital, including women’s wellness initiatives that provided funding for mammograms and cervical screenings to women who couldn’t afford them.
Today, Kathy focuses on The Beyond the Rainbow Fund in the memory of Anne-Marie Viviano. Beyond the Rainbow provides financial assistance to Exeter Hospital cancer patients who may need help with expenses during their treatment. Over the last eight years, Kathy has rallied the community behind Exeter Hospital and its cancer patients, raising nearly $80,000 for The Beyond the Rainbow Fund. “It gives me chills,” Kathy says of the community’s response to the cause and its participation in the many fundraising events she organizes. “I realize now this is what I was meant to do.”