Our Story

Life with Cancer was founded in 1987 at Inova Fairfax Hospital, when a man named Nando DeFilippo lost his wife to cancer.  Nando and his family, in need of information and support, searched throughout the country for resources to help them understand and cope with their emotions and their changed life. Ultimately, they were disappointed by the lack of available resources. Nando was determined to create an outlet for those dealing with cancer to turn to; with education, support and information to live with a cancer diagnosis, treatment and its affects. He made a generous donation to develop a program within Inova Health System solely devoted to the support of patients and families facing cancer, planting the roots for Life with Cancer. Over the past 20 years, Life with Cancer has grown and expanded its staff base, works with a team of more than 90 volunteers, serving patients and their loved ones in each of Inova Health System’s five hospitals, and in its new 16,000 square foot, multipurpose Dewberry Family Center.

Our Mission

To enhance the quality of life of those affected by cancer by providing education, information and support.