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| Save the Date Coaches vs Cancer Night - January 30, 2026 |
Providing accurate and timely information about what matters in Franklin, MA since 2007. * Working in collaboration with Franklin TV and Radio (wfpr.fm) since October 2019 *
Friday, January 23, 2026
Save the Date Coaches vs Cancer Night - January 30, 2026
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Hockomock Area YMCA Announces healthy living programs starting in January 2026
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| LIVESTRONG is a no-cost, 12-week program designed for cancer survivors |
At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility.The Hockomock Area YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities they are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information visit hockymca.org.
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
You can help this family facing eviction
Hello
My name is Melissa.
My good friend, Dawn Megna, and her husband Rick of Franklin, MA are currently facing eviction. They are both out of work because of a diagnosis of lung cancer. They were both diagnosed within 15 months of each other.

Donate Now to Save the Megna Family from Eviction!
They’re good hearted and hard working people who are in the midst of the most challenging time of their lives. They desperately need assistance and I’m reaching out to anyone who could help me get the word out about their current predicament.
I just created a GoFundMe. Is there any way that you could write an article about them to increase publicity for the GoFundMe campaign? Is there anywhere on your newspaper’s website where I could post the link? Can I post the link to your Facebook page?
They also have a teenage daughter Ashley who is medically disabled. It’s a tough situation all around and I’m trying to do my part to help them. Any help, advice, or guidance you could provide would be greatly appreciated!
GoFundMe https://gofund.me/4482e15ab
Sincerely,
Melissa Varin Somuyiwa
(401)451-5666
Sunday, October 12, 2025
Remission Commission fundraiser calendar for November 2025
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| Remission Commission fundraiser calendar for November |
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Franklin residents to participate in annual Jimmy Fund Walk Oct 5, 2025
59 residents from Franklin will participate in the 2025 Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai on Sunday, October 5.
Pamela Vickery, Kellie Bobola, Colleen Devereaux, Barbara Scardino, Thomas Lynch, Peter Sullivan, Anne Calligan, Brock Leiendecker, Chidvilasini Garimella, Harriet Rauffenbart, and 49 other Franklin residents, along with thousands of other walkers, will participate in the iconic annual event that will unite the community to raise funds to support all forms of adult and pediatric care and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The Jimmy Fund Walk will aim to raise $9.5 million this year in the effort to prevent, treat, and defy cancer.
Mark Lewis will participate as a Jimmy Fund Walk Hero. Walk Heroes are Dana-Farber patients who provide inspiration and motivation to walkers along the course. Heroes are matched with Jimmy Fund Walk teams who walk in their honor. Mark was diagnosed with Stage IV GI cancer. He walks on his match team, The Rak Pack. 
Franklin residents to participate in annual Jimmy Fund Walk Oct 5, 2025
"To me, Dana-Farber means living!" Mark writes. "I am four and a half years into my journey because of Dana-Farber. They have allowed me to see milestones in life that I may not have seen without their care!"
"For 36 years, the Jimmy Fund Walk has been a cornerstone of support for lifesaving cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber," said Caitlin Fink, vice president of The Jimmy Fund.
"Every participant contributes directly to advancing lifesaving research and critically important cancer care. Walk Day is more than just an event—it's a celebration of hope and the shared commitment of the Jimmy Fund community."
One Walk, Four Distances, For All Cancers
The Jimmy Fund Walk takes place along the famed Boston Marathon® course, and participants have the flexibility to choose from four distance options: 5K walk (from Dana-Farber's Longwood Medical Campus); 10K walk (from Newton); Half Marathon walk (from Wellesley); and Marathon walk (from Hopkinton). Walkers who prefer to participate virtually can complete their chosen distance from any location.
Whatever route participants choose, they will be supported by hundreds of volunteers and treated to refueling stations with refreshments throughout the course. Walkers will be motivated by poster-sized photographs of Walk Heroes that appear along the course as inspiration. All routes will conclude at the Jimmy Fund Walk Finish Line Powered by Schneider Electric at Boston Common, by the corner of Charles and Beacon Street. Finish line activities will include a celebration with food, entertainment, and more.
To register for the Walk (#JimmyFundWalk) or to support a walker, visit www.JimmyFundWalk.org or call 866-531-9255. Registrants can enter the promo code NEWS for $5 off the registration fee. All registered walkers will receive a bib, medal, and a Jimmy Fund Walk T-shirt. You can also sign up to volunteer on Walk day.
The Jimmy Fund, established in Boston in 1948, is comprised of community-based fundraising events and other programs that, solely and directly, benefit Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's lifesaving mission to provide compassionate patient care and groundbreaking cancer research for children and adults. The Jimmy Fund is an official charity of the Boston Red Sox, the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, the Pan-Mass Challenge, and the Variety Children's Charity of New England. Since 1948, the generosity of millions of people has helped Dana-Farber save countless lives and reduce the burden of cancer for patients and families worldwide. Follow the Jimmy Fund on Facebook, X, and Instagram: @TheJimmyFund.
About Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is one of the world's leading centers of cancer research and treatment. Dana-Farber's mission is to reduce the burden of cancer through scientific inquiry, clinical care, education, community engagement, and advocacy. Dana-Farber is a federally designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School.
Dana-Farber provides the latest treatments in cancer for adults through Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center and for children through Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. Dana-Farber is the only hospital nationwide with a top 5 U.S. News & World Report Best Cancer Hospital ranking in both adult and pediatric care.
As a global leader in oncology, Dana-Farber is dedicated to a unique and equal balance between cancer research and care, translating the results of discovery into new treatments for patients locally and around the world, offering more than 1,100 clinical trials.
Saturday, August 30, 2025
Support Haymakers For Hope for Pediatric Cancer - Sep 18 at La Cantina Winery
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| Support Haymakers For Hope for Pediatric Cancer - Sep 18 at La Cantina Winery |
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
Cyclists Alert: PanMASS Challenge to ride through Franklin Saturday, Aug 2
PanMASS Challenge to ride through Franklin Saturday, Aug 2 "The annual Pan-Mass Challenge will bring thousands of cyclists through Franklin this Saturday, August 2, 2025.Officers will be placed at strategic locations to assist PMC riders and motorists on Prospect Street, Washington Street, and Forest Street.Motorists are urged to use caution when passing PMC riders and follow the traffic plans!"
Thursday, June 12, 2025
If you missed the PMC Kids ride this past weekend, you can still contribute to the cause!
Wednesday, June 4, 2025
Reminder: PMC Kids Sunday, June 8 at Jefferson School
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| Reminder: PMC Kids Sunday, June 8 at Jefferson School |
Contribute to the cause -> https://kids.pmc.org/franklin
Saturday, March 29, 2025
Hike for a Cure Saturday, March 29 at 11 AM at DelCarte
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| Hike for a Cure Saturday, March 29 at 11 AM at DelCarte |
via the FHS Hiking Club & the FHS Cure 4 Cancer Clubs:
"Franklin residents! Bring your friends and pets to this fun event Saturdaytomorrowat 11:00 at Del Carte and support a good cause!!"
Thursday, March 27, 2025
Saturday, November 23, 2024
U.S. Reps. Auchincloss, Boyle, and Lawler Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Designate November 2024 as Lung Cancer Awareness Month
U.S. Representatives Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), Brendan F. Boyle (D-PA), and Mike Lawler (R-NY) introduced a bipartisan resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives to designate November 2024 as Lung Cancer Awareness Month. The initiative aims to draw attention to the importance of prevention, early detection, and research to curb lung cancer, which remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. In the United States Senate, the resolution is led by Senator Tina Smith (D-MN).
"Lung-cancer screening saves lives. The difference between early and late detection of a tumor is often a matter of life and death," said Rep. Auchincloss. "Washington needs to do more to advance awareness of screening and to support research and clinical care."

Bipartisan Resolution to Designate November 2024 as Lung Cancer Awareness Month
"Lung cancer impacts families and communities across the country. This resolution is an important step in raising awareness, encouraging preventative measures, and supporting groundbreaking research to save lives," said Rep. Boyle. "By coming together, we can ensure more Americans have access to the tools and resources needed to combat this devastating disease."
"Lung cancer is the deadliest and one of the most common forms of cancer," said Rep. Lawler. "We simply must do more to raise awareness and combat this deadly disease. That's why I'm joining Congressman Brendan Boyle in introducing a bipartisan resolution recognizing November as National Lung Cancer Awareness Month. One life lost to lung cancer is too many. Together, we can build a future where the devastation of lung cancer is no more."
The resolution highlights the need to increase public awareness campaigns, expand access to screening programs, and invest in life-saving research through federal agencies like the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
Franklin residents to participate in Boston Marathon® Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai - October 6
The Jimmy Fund is comprised of community-based fundraising events and other programs that, solely and directly, benefit Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s lifesaving mission to provide compassionate patient care and groundbreaking cancer research for children and adults. The Jimmy Fund is an official charity of the Boston Red Sox, the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, the Pan-Mass Challenge, and the Variety Children's Charity of New England. 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. Follow the Jimmy Fund on Facebook, X, and Instagram: @TheJimmyFund.
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is one of the world's leading centers of cancer research and treatment. Dana-Farber's mission is to reduce the burden of cancer through scientific inquiry, clinical care, education, community engagement, and advocacy. Dana-Farber is a federally designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School.We provide the latest treatments in cancer for adults through Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center and for children through Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. Dana-Farber is the only hospital nationwide with a top 5 U.S. News & World Report Best Cancer Hospital ranking in both adult and pediatric care. As a global leader in oncology, Dana-Farber is dedicated to a unique and equal balance between cancer research and care, translating the results of discovery into new treatments for patients locally and around the world, offering more than 1,100 clinical trials.
Saturday, September 14, 2024
Bo finds Pennies from Heaven on his "CaCaCancer" journey (audio)
FM #1280 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1280 in the series.
This session shares my conversation with Franklin resident and volunteer Bo Kinney conducted in the Franklin Public Radio Station on Tuesday, August 27, 2024.
Bo tells the story of his kidney stone which led to a discovery of prostate cancer and the journey he has been on and how he has dealt with it. This is his “public service announcement” on his lessons learned.
The recording runs about 59 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1280-bo-kinney-pennies-from-heaven-08-24-24/
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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.
This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.
How can you help?
If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors
If you don't like something here, please let me know
Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.
For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news
If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com
The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana" c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.
I hope you enjoy!
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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"
Monday, September 2, 2024
Jen decides to run the half marathon again for @1NickStrong18
Remember that time I said I would never run the B.A.A Half Marathon again?Shared from -> https://x.com/FHSTrainingRoom/status/1829541937680138317
fund raising for @1NickStrong18
I guess I lied 🤷🏻♀️
Find out why I will be running the Boston Half Marathon AGAIN with Team @1NickStrong18 here:
https://t.co/2B0Zhh72dO
#CancerSucks https://t.co/wNVOEuuWST
Monday, August 12, 2024
Hockomock Area YMCA Announces healthy living programs starting in September
Bernon Family Branch45 Forge Hill RoadFranklin, MADay & Time: Mondays and Wednesdays: 6:15pm-7:45pmDay & Time: Wednesdays and Fridays: 10:45am-12:15pmInvensys Foxboro Branch67 Mechanic StreetFoxboro, MADay & Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays: 10:30am-12:00pmDay & Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays: 6:00pm-7:30pmHurley Family Branch300 Elmwood StreetNorth Attleboro, MADay & Time: Mondays & Wednesdays: 10:30am-12:00pm
Where Cause Meets Community. At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility.The Hockomock Area YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities they are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information visit hockymca.org.
Monday, June 17, 2024
Give it "A Shot For Life"
"A shot for life is looking for players or non players interested in participating in the event this fall on November 9th and 10th.
Anyone is encouraged to participate in this amazing event so if you have any questions or would like to sign up you can message Olivia Quinn through her instagram —> @oliviaquinnn
We hope you will consider this opportunity!!"
Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/C74UQP4OMDY/
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| Give it "A Shot For Life" |
Sunday, June 9, 2024
Oliva Quinn is recruiting for "A Shot for Life"
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| "A Shot for Life" |
Via Olivia Quinn:
"Hey!! My name is Olivia and I am an intern at A Shot For Life! I am reaching out about our biggest event of the year called our ASFL gauntlet.
All funds go to Mass General brain cancer research and it is a super fun event for all ages and skill level!!
Please pm me with any interest/questions!!"
Saturday, June 1, 2024
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
Get your tickets now for the Nick Strong Foundation event scheduled for The Shed - May 21
Nick Strong Foundation to directly fund groundbreaking research for germ cell tumors.We are beyond excited to announce groundbreaking research, being conducted by the Jackson Laboratories, that could potentially find treatments for germ cell tumors. Pediatric oncologist Dr. Ching Lau is a professor at the lab, which is a nonprofit biomedical institution committed to basic research discoveries that will change the landscape of cancer detection and care. Dr. Lau and his lab team have developed a first of its kind assay that can accurately diagnose germ cell tumors using spinal fluid obtained from a less invasive procedure such as a spinal tap. The Nick Strong Foundation has decided to directly fund these tests that cost about $2,000 per test. They have about 50 samples ready to test and our goal is to fund these samples and keep going from there! We are honored to be a part of this research in Nick’s memory.Proceeds from your participation in our upcoming events (The Shed event, our first Golf Tournament) will go directly towards this funding - THANK YOU!!!
Visit the Nick Strong Foundation online -> https://nickstrongfoundation.com/














