More about Barbara Riefle

It happens every year, in Chicago, Dallas or New York City. Elaine Holland, Harmony Hill Board Member, runs a marathon in honor of her friend, Barbara Riefle, raising funds to support Harmony Hill.

A former travel industry executive, Barbara Riefle was diagnosed with appendicial cancer in 1998. In her search for information on this very rare cancer, Barbara discovered Harmony Hill, where she "spent five nurturing days in October 1998."

Barbara was inspired by the possibilities that Harmony Hill opened up for her, and she and her friend Elaine decided in 2000 to launch an annual fundraising drive to benefit our programs. They solicited pledges for Elaine to run the New York Marathon and then donated all proceeds to Harmony Hill, earmarked as scholarship funds for our cancer retreats.

Barbara's amazing energy and spirit continued to inspire many to give of their own resources in tribute to her life and work. In recognition of Barbara’s extraordinary service and perseverance, the Harmony Hill Board has named our scholarship fund The Barbara Riefle Cancer Retreat Scholarship Fund, and all Chicago Marathon pledges become part of this fund.

Barbara's passing in 2001, Elaine has continued to raise funds via different Marathons throughout the country. We offer you the opportunity to help Elaine continue to raise funds that make the transformative cancer retreat programs at Harmony Hill available to those whose lives would otherwise not be touched. Fill out the online pledge form, or make a donation now.

You can also make a meaningful contribution by telling others who might also be inspired to make a pledge of their own.

With your help, we will be able to give others whose lives have been irrevocably changed by cancer a gift that transcends tragedy.