More than a volunteer: Fifi’s lifelong gift of compassion

For more than 44 years, the Dana-Farber and Jimmy Fund community has been graced by the unwavering spirit of an extraordinary volunteer and friend: Phyllis, affectionately known as “Fifi.”

Those who have met Fifi know her as unforgettable, radiating warmth, joy, and inspiring resilience. But her journey with Dana-Farber was shaped by profound loss. After her beloved daughter, Susan, passed away from ovarian cancer at just 20 years old, and her husband soon after, Fifi transformed grief into a beacon of hope for others. For an astounding 44 years, she served at the Dana-Farber front desk, dedicating more than 50,000 hours to welcoming patients and their families. She became a steady source of comfort and kindness, her familiar smile often the first to greet those facing the most difficult days. Former Dana-Farber President Edward J. Benz Jr., MD, once remarked that the staff were the “special sauce” of exceptional patient care, a spirit which Fifi embodied every single day.

Fifi’s dedication extended far beyond the front desk. She became a beloved presence at every major Jimmy Fund event: the Jimmy Fund Walk, the WEEI/NESN Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon, the Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl, and the annual Pasta Party celebrating runners on Dana-Farber's Boston Marathon® team.

Whether cheering on walkers and marathoners, scooping ice cream, or offering a reassuring word to a patient, Fifi’s energy and generosity were endless. She witnessed the transformation of the Yawkey Center for Cancer Care from a campaign dream to a thriving reality, always ready to support the mission and brighten the lives of everyone around her. In loving remembrance of her daughter, Fifi established The Susan Swerling Visiting Scholars Lecture at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. More than a tribute to Susan’s life, this annual lecture has, for 45 years, championed academic excellence and inspired the next generation of oncologists. The lecture continues to advance cancer research and education, nurturing innovation in the field and keeping Susan’s legacy alive in every breakthrough and every life touched.

Now residing in an assisted living community, Fifi remains a cherished part of the Dana-Farber family. To celebrate her remarkable legacy, a heartfelt campaign set out to raise $5,000 to name a gene in Dana-Farber’s Gene Display in her honor—a lasting tribute to her boundless generosity and decades of volunteerism. Thanks to the outpouring of love from friends, family, and community members, Fifi’s giving page has already surpassed that goal, raising over $6,500. The Gene Display at Dana-Farber is a vibrant installation that recognizes those whose impact has helped advance cancer research and care. Having Fifi’s name included is a beautiful, lasting way to honor her contributions. After hearing the countless messages written to her, Fifi remarked, “You have no idea what this means to me. I enjoy doing it, that’s why. You all make my day, my week, my everything.”

To those who have known Fifi, and to all who are touched by her story, there are still meaningful ways to honor her legacy. Sharing her story, being inspired to volunteer, or finding your own way to give back are all ways to continue the ripple effect of kindness that Fifi began. Every gesture, no matter how small, will bring joy to someone who has given so much to others.

No matter the outcome, every message and every gift will be shared with Fifi to make her smile and remind her of the countless hearts she has touched. Her story is a testament to the enduring power of kindness, resilience, and community.

Join people like Fifi and support Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s lifesaving mission to provide compassionate patient care and groundbreaking cancer research for children and adults.

Since 1948, the generosity of millions of people has helped the Jimmy Fund save countless lives and reduce the burden of cancer for patients and families worldwide through community-based fundraising events and other programs that solely and directly benefit Dana-Farber. Learn more about how you can get involved at JimmyFund.org, and follow the Jimmy Fund on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram: @TheJimmyFund.