UPMC Installs ‘Hope Bell’ for Those Facing Cancer in Infusion Centers Across Central Pennsylvania

HARRISBURG, Pa. (Oct. 2, 2024) — The UPMC Pinnacle Foundation recently installed seven “Hope Bells” in UPMC Hillman Cancer Center infusion centers in central Pennsylvania, an alternative to the traditional end-of-treatment bell that allows patients to celebrate various miles in their journey, from regaining appetite to attending family events. The Hope Bell was conceptualized by Aleecia Munchel, BSN, RN, a UPMC infusion nurse, in collaboration with her late patient Barbara Gutshall, who passed away after a courageous fight with breast cancer.  
 
“The Hope Bell gives voice to the small victories that mean so much to our patients,” said Munchel. “It’s a symbol of resilience and joy in the face of incredible challenges. The bell represents a milestone, a moment of triumph over adversity. It is a reminder that even in the toughest times, there is hope and strength within us all.” 
 
The Gutshall family funded the installation of the Hope Bell at UPMC Community Osteopathic in Harrisburg, where Barbara received her treatment. Inspired by the initiative, the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation further funded the installation of Hope Bells in all UPMC Hillman Cancer Center infusion centers across central Pennsylvania, extending the reach of this meaningful project. 
 
A dedication ceremony was held at UPMC Community Osteopathic, honoring Barbara’s memory and the generous donation from her husband, Don Gutshall. The event was attended by family, friends, and the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center infusion team. 
 
“You are all the real heroes,” said Don Gutshall. “For all that you do, for the countless hours you spend, and for the compassion you show to all those patients and families that you take care of, we are deeply grateful. Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and your impact is immeasurable. Thank you for being the pillars of strength and hope in our community.” 
 
The installation of the Hope Bells symbolizes the unwavering support and compassion that UPMC Hillman Cancer Center provides to its patients and their families. As these bells ring out in celebration of each milestone, they echo the enduring message that hope and courage are ever-present. 
 
To recognize her visionary Hope Bell project, Munchel was awarded the prestigious HOPE Award for 2023-2024 by UPMC. 
 
The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa. had approximately 40,000 patient visits for medical oncology and infusion in 2023, averaging close to 100 appointments per day. It is one of just 56 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the country, which provides cutting-edge treatment and access to hundreds of clinical trials. For more information or to schedule an appointment at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa., visit UPMCHillman.com/CentralPA 
 
Photo Cutline 
Hope Bell 1 – Don Gutshall with Aleecia Munchel photographed in front of the Hope Bell at UPMC Community Osteopathic in Harrisburg 
 
 
About UPMC     
UPMC is a world-renowned, nonprofit health care provider and insurer committed to delivering exceptional, people-centered care and community services. Headquartered in Pittsburgh and affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, UPMC is shaping the future of health through clinical and technological innovation, research, and education. Dedicated to advancing the well-being of our diverse communities, we provide nearly $2 billion annually in community benefits, more than any other health system in Pennsylvania. Our 100,000 employees — including more than 5,000 physicians — care for patients across more than 40 hospitals and 800 outpatient sites in Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland, as well as overseas. UPMC Insurance Services covers more than 4 million members, providing the highest-quality care at the most affordable price. To learn more, visit UPMC.com  
 
About UPMC Pinnacle Foundation 
The UPMC Pinnacle Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that coordinates charitable giving to support community benefit and education programs, the needs of seven hospitals, and resources that improve access to, and quality of, care throughout UPMC in Central Pa. With nearly 100 different funds that benefit the hospitals as well as the community, UPMC Pinnacle Foundation invests locally in the resources and people that continually make the life-changing medicine of UPMC in Central Pa a reality. All money raised by the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation remains in central Pennsylvania to support programs and services at UPMC in Central Pa. For more information, visit upmcpinnaclefoundation.org.