people giving back | greg olsen

people giving back

Greg Olsen

For more than 30 years, retired commercial banker Greg Olsen has been involved in the South Sound community. Since 2004, he’s been an active member of Rotary Club of Tacoma #8, and he’s also served on the Economic Development Board for Tacoma-Pierce County.

But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Greg’s volunteerism was briefly put on hold when his health took a turn. Two years ago, he visited his MultiCare primary care physician (PCP) and was alarmed to learn that he had prostate cancer.

To navigate his diagnosis, Greg began diligently researching his treatment options to find what best fit his goals, values and wishes.

“I reached out to people I didn’t even know; more people are touched by cancer than I ever realized,” Greg recalls. “I talked to many people, and I was amazed so many people were so willing to share their experience and what they went through.” After getting advice from his care team, friends and colleagues, Greg ultimately made the decision to move ahead with a prostatectomy. On December 22, 2021, he went in for surgery, spending two nights in the hospital. Throughout his stay, doctors, nurses and other staff brought peace-of-mind.

Inspired to give back, just 60 days after his procedure, Greg was back doing the things he loved, such as golfing and participating in Rotary. And he’s happy to report that his PSA numbers have fallen to an undetectable level.

Following his procedure, a new project called Rotary CARES presented an opportunity to pay it forward and lift up local hospital staff for their critical work during the pandemic and beyond. Starting in January 2022, Rotarians across Pierce County made weekly visits to the Emergency Departments at local facilities, showing staff their gratitude with a card and a gift of appreciation. The Rotary Club's continued support of South Sound healthcare workers is a reminder of the commitment that medical teams make every day, helping our South Sound friends and neighbors—like Greg—heal.

“I’m so grateful for the care we get,” Greg says. “We get world-class care right here.”

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