A Symbol of Hope at Roswell Park Cancer Center
October 3, 2026
In challenging times, sometimes those who bring the most hope aren’t the doctors or nurses, but someone waiting outside, like Jon Avery, a valet at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, New York.
Jon and Kimberly / Credit: Sweet Buffalo
Jon Avery is known for his unwavering positivity and encouragement as he greets cancer patients, often donning his Buffalo Bills hat. His interaction extends beyond just handling their vehicles, offering words of encouragement that make a significant difference for those facing challenging appointments and treatments.
Breast cancer survivor Kate Fink experienced this support firsthand. Jon’s constant encouragement with phrases like “You got this” helped change her mindset. “Yeah, it’s just your mindset just kind of changes,” Fink said.
Kimberly LaRussa, founder of Sweet Buffalo, also recalls a transformative encounter with Jon. On a particularly difficult day, Jon’s simple request for her to “have a good day for me, OK,” uplifted her spirits and shifted her focus from frowning to smiling.
Jon’s aim is to create meaningful encounters, as he articulates, “have a meaningful encounter that’s not hollow.”
Fink, wanting to express gratitude for Jon’s impact, remembered his aspiration to attend a Buffalo Bills game. With help from her colleagues at West Herr Automotive Group, they arranged tickets, field passes, and even a signed jersey from Josh Allen for Jon.
Comments on Facebook from people who met Jon
The gesture left Jon thrilled, even though he never sought any recognition. “I serve people, that’s what I do,” he said. “And if I don’t got nothing else in the world that means anything to anybody, I know I can live in service.”
Jon’s consistent kindness and service offer a moment of solace to patients before they head inside for treatment, showing that compassion can come back in unexpected ways.
