When Rhonda Couto was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, she knew she wanted to help others facing this challenge. She became involved with the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition and began educating and advocating for this cause, determined to shed light on a disease that affects 1 in 87 women.

After a courageous battle, Rhonda passed away in 2015. Her husband Kenny and close friends, Deborah and Mark Menard, were inspired by her legacy. Striving to continue Rhonda’s work in education and advocacy, they began an initiative to support cancer patients and created the Rhonda Couto Comfort Fund. The fund supports the purchase of radiation robes, port shirts, lymphedema supplies, and more to keep oncology patients comfortable during treatment. Their efforts have also supported many fundraisers and even inspired a yearly golf tournament in Rhonda’s honor.

Recently, they donated teal sports-inspired scarves, the color of ovarian cancer awareness, to the Southcoast Health Cancer Center in Fall River and Fairhaven. These scarves provide warmth and comfort to our patients and are a symbol that no one is alone in their cancer journey.  

The Southcoast Health Cancer Center providers, staff and patients are deeply grateful for their generosity. Together, we honor Rhonda’s memory.

Those wishing to contribute and make a meaningful impact through the Rhonda Couto Comfort Fund please visit https://host.nxt.blackbaud.com/donor-form/?svcid=tcs&formId=f40c90bb-354d-449d-81fd-a4b9b8f211f4&envid=p-ErWNnLTD3UGBHCAEwe1t7Q&zone=usa