Richard Deming, M.D
Founder & Chairman

Dr. Richard Deming is medical director of Mercy Cancer Center in Des Moines, Iowa. He received a bachelor’s degree at South Dakota State University and his medical degree at Creighton University. Dr. Deming is known in the community for the compassionate care he provides cancer patients and their families. He is involved in many national, state and community organizations and is the recipient of numerous awards. He was awarded the Lane Adams Award by the American Cancer Society for excellence and compassion in patient care. He is the recipient of “the one hundred” Award by Massachusetts General Hospital for his work with cancer survivors. He was awarded the Iowa Cancer Champion Award for his tireless efforts in the field of advocacy. He is dedicated to the principals of human dignity, social justice, and compassion. His greatest ambition is to encourage others to pursue lives of meaning, purpose, passion and compassion.

Mary Van Heukelom
Health & Fitness Director

Mary Van Heukelom co-creates and leads the Optimal Living for Cancer Survivor Programs, in partnership with the YMCA.  She trains, educates and coaches cancer survivors to reduce the chance of relapse, and enhance recovery, through the implementation of holistic personal wellness programs that address all aspects of healthy living.   Mary is a Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Wellness Coach (MA, CPT-CET-ACSM, RRCA) who leads the Total Training Class, a small group personal training program for survivors at the Wellmark YMCA of Des Moines, teaches Mindfulness Meditation, and facilitates book club and bike club.  She guides the Adventure Fitness Programs to promote healthy engagement outdoors. Mary trained, trekked and led Cancer Survivor teams to the Base Camp of Mt. Everest, Summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, and Huayna PIcchu, participated in Coast to Coast for Cancer and co- coached Above + Beyond Cancer’s 2012 Race Across America cycling team. Her professional life purpose is to inspire others to discover their Optimal Health, of body, mind and spirit.  She loves adventure, the outdoors, and time with her teens, Anna and Luke.

Kelsey Parker
Development Director

Kelsey Parker is a fundraising professional with over 10 years of experience in nonprofit management. She has experience in nonprofit programs, operations, grant management, fund development, special events, volunteer supervision and nonprofit board organization. Kelsey is driven by a passion for connecting and is inspired to improve community members’ lives through philanthropic support and volunteerism. She is a graduate of Iowa State University and pursued continuing education courses at the University of Indiana Center Fundraising School. Kelsey volunteers with the Parent Teacher Organization at Waukee Elementary and the local library. She resides in Waukee with her husband, Dave and three children, Abi, Bryce & Ira along with their 3 fur babies.