Stage4Hope Launches to Transform Advanced-Stage Cancer Care
We are pleased to announce the official launch of Stage4HopeTM, a 501(c)(3) public charity! We have a powerful mission: to improve the lives of individuals diagnosed with advanced-stage cancer by accelerating access to world-class cancer care, providing financial and emotional support, and investing in cutting-edge research in precision oncology.
Founded by Stacy L. Carter—a mother, entrepreneur, and non-smoker diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer in 2023—Stage4Hope was born out of her own journey and the urgent need to bring hope, clarity, and purpose to others facing similar diagnoses.
“I started Stage4Hope because I know what it’s like to hear the words ‘stage IV’ and to have my whole world fall apart,” says Stacy. “What carried me forward was finding purpose in the midst of the pain. Now, we’re building a place where patients can access expert care quickly, find emotional healing, and rediscover hope and purpose—even in the middle of the storm.”
News: Explore Our Website
We are proud to launch our new website—Stage4hope.org—an informative space created to support individuals living with advanced-stage cancer.
Stage4Hope is accelerating your path to world-class cancer care by removing barriers, offering connection, and walking alongside you with dignity and support.
From no-cost retreats and informative resources to financial assistance and clinical trial guidance, our site provides tools that help patients and families navigate this journey with greater clarity and care.
At the heart of everything we do is a belief worth repeating:
“Our vision is to show those living with advanced-stage cancer that life doesn’t end with a diagnosis. There is still hope. There is still purpose. And there is still a life worth living.”
We invite you to explore the new website, share it with others, and return often as we grow our services and community.
Ferngrove Stays: Arriving Late 2025
Coming in late 2025, Ferngrove will offer a serene sanctuary for individuals facing advanced-stage cancer—nestled just outside the vibrant town of Highlands, North Carolina. Renowned for its world-class hospitality, Highlands is home to two of the nation’s top 10 bed-and-breakfasts, alongside a charming downtown filled with exceptional restaurants, galleries, and boutique shops—all just five minutes from the stillness of Ferngrove.
Guests will stay at no cost in thoughtfully designed private cottages, each with sweeping mountain views and calming forest surroundings. These cottages feature open, vaulted living spaces with cozy fireplaces, designer kitchens, and spa-inspired baths complete with soaking tubs, walk-in showers, and private decks overlooking the national forest.
Ferngrove will offer a quiet peacefulness—a place to think, reflect, and simply breathe. Here, the noise of treatment and uncertainty can begin to fade, and healing can start with stillness. Stays will be flexible and self-guided, with optional offerings such as emotional health sessions, integrative wellness tools, and a signature six-week guided program focused on processing grief and building resilience.
Check back soon for photos and more information as we prepare to welcome our first guests in late 2025.
