The American Cancer Society is the leading cancer-fighting organization with a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. We are the only organization improving the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research, and patient support, to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Join us at our annual Hope Gala for a celebratory evening honoring the greatest leaders in our community; featuring live music, hors d’oeuvres, dinner, dessert, live auction, paddle raise and more!
Dr. Krista Andersen is a two-time cancer survivor, having faced both breast cancer and bone cancer. Her cancer journey is deeply personal—she lost her mother to the disease at age 17, and years later found herself relying on the support and comfort of Hope Lodge during her treatment for bone cancer. These experiences have inspired her to become a passionate advocate for others affected by cancer, and today she proudly serves as the American Cancer Society Hope Gala Event-Chair in support of the Salt Lake City Hope Lodge.
An accomplished entrepreneur, Dr. Andersen brings expertise in conflict resolution, mediation, and organizational leadership. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, a Master’s degree in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, and a Doctorate in Interdisciplinary Leadership. Her research focuses on workplace policies that support women’s well-being, the benefits of apologies, and the influence of self-care on work-life satisfaction.
As the founder and CEO of Fiksal, Dr. Andersen leads the development of innovative software that transforms digital communication by integrating emotional awareness with real-time risk prevention, enabling organizations to detect, correct, and inform before issues escalate. Fiksal inspires meaningful and socially responsible connections both inside and outside the workplace.
A mother of eight, Dr. Andersen is dedicated to supporting families in need and championing hope for those facing cancer. She is thrilled to be a voice for healing, advocacy, and community at Hope Lodge.
Leadership
American Cancer Society Hope Lodge® communities offer a home away from home for people facing cancer and their caregivers when cancer treatment is far away. Our 30+ Hope Lodge communities provide a free place to stay during treatment so people with cancer can focus on getting better. These communities provide comfortable guest suites with private baths, as well as inviting spaces with all the comforts of home, including a communal kitchen, dining area, laundry rooms, and places to gather or find a quiet respite – all at no cost to guests. Hope Lodge guests don’t just find a place to stay – they find a community of support and an emotional connection with others facing the same journey.
Mission Paddle Raise
For more than 10 decades, the American Cancer Society has been dedicated to pursuing better outcomes for every cancer, every life. Today, more people are surviving cancer than ever before, but there is still work to be done. Join us, support us, and help us end cancer as we know it, for everyone.
towards cancer research
winning scientists received research funding
through all patient support initiatives in 2024
