Sailing Heals Organization Returns to San Diego to Host the 6th Sail for Cancer Patients & Families

BOSTON - April 18, 2016 - PRLog -- Cancer is a reality that has become far too common for many people and their families. Recent statistics have shown that currently each year over 12.7 million people discover they have cancer and 7.6 million people die from the disease annually and the numbers will only continue to grow until a medical cure is found. As many know, a cancer diagnosis not only affects the patient but, it can take a serious toll on their families and caregivers.

While many clinical researchers are committed to finding a cure and promising steps are made every day, some are also dedicated to improving the experience for patients and families during this highly-sensitive time in their lives.

With the goal of providing more joyful experiences along the way, a Massachusetts-based non-profit was chartered several years ago with support from the Italian high-end watch brand Panerai, as a community tie-in to its classic yacht regattas that are hosted annually in New England. The result is Sailing Heals, a 501c3 that provides days of healing and relaxation for patients and families (called "VIPs") undergoing a serious health setback, such as cancer.

Since beginning in 2011, Sailing Heals -- with support from Panerai, Eisai Pharmaceuticals and private donors -- has hosted seaside lunches and yachting events in over 20 ports in nine different states for nearly 1,900 VIP guests.

On April 23^rd Sailing Heals is pleased to partner with Host Captains from San Diego Yacht Club and UCSD Moores Cancer Center to offer its 6^th healing sail in the area, the last five being at San Diego Yacht Club.

Time: 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Location: San Diego Yacht Club, 1011 Anchorage Ln. San Diego

The 2-hour sail comes with a complimentary lunch, courtesy of CJ Charles Jewelers of LaJolla.

Moores Cancer Center CEO, Dr. Scott Lippman, said this about the organization, "Sailing Heals and the Host Captains from San Diego Yacht Club offers our patients who are going through one of the greatest challenges in life a chance to get away from it all and simply enjoy a healing day out on a beautiful boat on the water with family and friends. The joy and memories that result can last forever. Several patients have come back with so many great stories that I've even began "prescribing" a day with Sailing Heals to some. And, one of the best things about the program is that it is free!"

Invitations to participate in the Sailing Heals program are by word-of-mouth through medical personnel.

"Cancer took a back seat that day; we had the time of our lives." - L. Duff, VIP Guest

For more information or to do a feature, please visit www.sailingheals.org or contact:

Media Contact:

Cathy Cardenas


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About Sailing Heals

Sailing Heals is a 501(c)(3) organization which offers enjoyable sailing experiences to VIP patient guests, their caretakers and staff who would benefit from a memorable and healing day on the water. Originating in Marblehead, MA, its mission is to give people in need an "escape for a spirit-lifting day at sea." Its second aim is to bring the great sport of sailing and the healing properties of the sea to people who might not ordinarily be exposed to its benefits; and its third aim is to be the charity of choice for sailing and boating enthusiasts who are keen to give back to others and share their beloved sport. Sailing Heals is supported by generous donors and sponsors, such as Founding Sponsor Officine Panerai, (an Italian-designed, Swiss-made fine watchmaker which is the title sponsor of the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge), Eisai Inc., an active Board of Directors, over 170 Host Captains, Donors and Volunteers. For more information, visit www.sailingheals.org.