Suggestions
Felice Apolinsky
Founding Program Director at Gilda's Club Middle Tennessee
Felice Apolinsky, LCSW, is a dedicated social worker with over 22 years of experience providing emotional support to families affected by cancer. Her profound commitment to serving the community has made a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals coping with the challenges of cancer. As the founding Program Director of Gilda's Club Middle Tennessee, which is an affiliate of the Cancer Support Community, Felice has played a pivotal role in creating programs and services that focus on providing psychosocial support to those impacted by this disease. Under her leadership, Gilda's Club has evolved into a vibrant center that offers a range of services including support groups, healthy lifestyle classes, expressive arts workshops, nutrition and cooking classes, educational lectures, and access to valuable resources—all provided free of charge. This makes Gilda’s Club an invaluable asset to the Middle Tennessee community, helping to educate and inspire hope among men, women, young adults, teens, and children at various stages in their cancer journey.
In her professional journey, Felice has utilized her academic background and real-world experiences to shape her approach to social work. She earned her Master’s of Science in Social Work with a focus on Clinical and Medical Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin, where she gained essential skills and knowledge crucial for her future roles in the field. Additionally, she obtained her Bachelor’s degree at the prestigious University of Massachusetts Amherst. The combination of her educational background and her extensive experience enables Felice to provide empathetic, informed, and personalized support to those navigating the complexities of a cancer diagnosis. Her tireless efforts in advocating for individuals and families dealing with cancer have garnered her respect and admiration from peers and community members alike.
Felice's leadership at Gilda's Club demonstrates her deep understanding of the importance of community, support, and mental well-being. The programs she has developed not only address the emotional turmoil associated with cancer but also emphasize the importance of healthy living and the power of expressive arts as a form of healing. Felice has been instrumental in facilitating workshops and classes that empower participants to take an active role in their health and wellness, fostering a sense of community among those coping with similar challenges. Through her work, she has transformed lives, providing hope and fostering resilience among individuals and families dealing with the effects of cancer.
