Tarpon Glen Resident Changes Lives with Volunteer Efforts

Gertrude Zukin, a Tarpon Springs resident, has dedicated the past 27 years to helping others. 

Gertrude, affectionately known as Dolly, moved to the Tarpon Glen community with her two sisters in July of 1986. 

More than ten years later, Dolly’s sister, Lil, was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. During her treatment, Lil was given a teddy bear named “Walker,” which was donated by an organization called the “SoJourn Bears," an organization focused on making cancer more “bear”able. Her sisters were touched by the gesture, and volunteered to help make and distribute the bears. 

Since becoming involved in the SoJourn Bears organization, Dolly has lost two of her sisters to cancer (in addition to fighting – and beating – cancer herself). Throughout all of the hardship she has endured, Dolly's passion for the cause has never wavered.

To this day, Dolly delivers 16 bears to Florida Cancer Affiliates in New Port Richey at the beginning of every month. At the midpoint of each month, Dolly delivers 16 bears for patients at the Florida Cancer Specialists in Clearwater. Dolly also donates 8 bears to Ladies First Choice in Clearwater and to the Florida Cancer Specialists in Largo. 

Dolly works with her neighbors in Tarpon Glen and her friends across the state to produce these unique, lovable bears for those diagnosed with cancer. She’s a hero in our community, and a true live saver for her fellow cancer survivors.