about the fund

The Dana G. Smith Fund was created in March 2006 to assist those in their fight against cancer.  Oftentimes, because of poor insurance coverage, missed work, multiple co-pays, doctor visits and travel, those battling cancer find themselves unable to pay basic bills such as rent and utilities. To date, the DGS fund, operating under the auspice of the Piedmont Hospital Foundation, has been diverse in its ability to assist those in need. It has helped with mortgage payments, rent and utilities. It has repaired vehicles for patients enabling them to transport themselves to treatment, paid COBRA insurance premiums and dental care required needed because of side effects of chemotherapy. With help from those touched by Dana, her story and her cause, the fund has lifted weight off shoulders, elevated spirits and lengthened lives.

The Dana G. Smith Cancer Assistance Fund was was borne out of Dana Smith's desire to help those struggling in their fight against cancer.  Dana Smith lost her battle in July 2006 but her legacy of generosity, strength and determination continues to live on through the many helped and touched by the fund.   

Dana was blessed to have the resources and insurance coverage necessary for travel to several clinics across the country, and receive multiple, cutting-edge treatments. While receiving treatment at MD Anderson in Houston, Dana encountered a woman of similar age battling a similar cancer. At the time, Dana was experiencing significant success with a new cancer-fighting drug. In talking, Dana learned that this new drug was unavailable to the woman due to her current insurance and financial resources. It was after this conversation that Dana declared that any money raised in her name would be dedicated to helping others get the treatment they needed.


Hence, the DGS Fund was created to permeate Dana's limitless energy, strength and vivacity into the lives of others, joining their battle.

Dana G. Smith