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Survivor Stories

Debbie Ball
Breast cancer survivor
From the minute I walked into the Breast Center terrified for my biopsy, everyone I came into contact with was as comforting and calming as a dear old friend, even though they had never met me. They have become family to me. From the first time I spoke with Mary Williams, I knew we could become good friends. Without her, I know that my experience would have been much different. While no one wants to hear the bad news, I can honestly say that there have been so many more positives than negatives as a result of my cancer diagnosis, in large part because of Mary and the Breast Center.

Candy Warinner
SJMC Breast Center Volunteer
Why St. Joseph Medical Center’s Breast Center? I chose St. Joseph Medical Center years ago for the birth of my children. St. Joseph was my choice for all the many breast biopsies I had over the 20 years prior to my breast cancer diagnosis. It was a no brainer. I would choose St. Joseph for my breast cancer treatment. Why?
 
It is simple. I knew I would receive the best medical care in the city and being a Catholic I knew I would see a crucifix in my room and I would be blest with the love compassion of Sr. Gabrielle, the Pastoral Care Staff and the good people who come to work here.
 
Lawanda Billings
Two-year breast cancer survivor
You all are my angels.
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Karyn Booker
Talbot’s event model
They supported me in moments of total weakness. They were always available when I called. They were patient with me always. They are my extended family and that says it all!
 
  
 
Jeannine Fox
Six-month breast cancer survivor and Talbot’s event model
I was blessed to meet Janie, a nurse navigator, on my first visit to the Breast Center. She took my medical reports and explained in simple terms what I could expect with my diagnosis. She empowered me with the knowledge and confidence to make the best decisions for my care. Everyone I’ve encountered has been positive, encouraging, supportive and loving. Receiving a massage from Kathy Mehlenbacher, LMT at St. Joseph Medical Center, just before surgery was a sacred time that brought me peace.
 
Carmen Guzman
21 year breast cancer survivor
A friend who was diagnosed with breast cancer urged me to have my first mammogram. I was 63 years old and had never felt a lump. That was 21 years ago. I had breast cancer.
I was shocked at the diagnosis but all the doctors and nurses at St. Joseph Medical Center were so wonderful and helped me feel more comfortable. And thanks to the good prayers of family and friends of everyone here I am now 84 years old and cancer free.
 
Sandra Huff
July 2010 operation for breast cancer
The staff at the Breast Center at St. Joseph Medical Center walked me through a dark time in my life. They helped to explain the things I had no clue about. The love that each and every one associated with the Breast Center showed me made my breast cancer journey bearable.
 
Valerie Martin
Five-year cancer survivor
The sensitivity that was provided around my care – You are going through an emotional whirlwind when you find out you have breast cancer. The people that work at the Breast Center at St. Joseph Medical Center are very personable. I often felt like I was talking with my best friend. Because of that I was able to share what I was feeling. They in turn, helped me find the resources I needed when I couldn’t think clearly.

I gained a lot of trust because of the way I was treated. Since then I have been able to help others which has been key to my successful recovery.
 
Bret Miller
Male breast cancer survivor
The Breast Center at the St. Joseph Medical Center has turned into a second family. All the nurses and doctors were so amazing. Most important was Candy. She acted as a second mother to help me through this wild journey. I am so thankful for the Breast Center at St. Joseph and don’t think I could have gotten through this without them.
 

 

 
 
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Voice of the Patient

  • “I enjoyed both the classes and the exercise. I seemed to get better with the exercise program the longer I attended, which, of course, is the whole point!”
  • “I admired the professionalism of the staff. They were all very cheerful and kept the classes lively and enjoyable. They all are a credit to the hospital.”
  • “Everyone who knows me and my exercise regimen, including my doctors, did not think I would find value in Cardiac Rehab, but I did and it was thanks to the staff.”
  • “The bond that develops between the class participants was an unexpected bonus!”
  • “The most helpful part of the program was the quality care provided by the five nurses. While running on the treadmill, I watched them work with and encourage each of the other patients. You have a great staff!”
  • “The entire program was excellent. The classes were great and the nursing staff was very knowledgeable.”
  • “This program is excellent; it was vital to my full recovery and restored health.”
  • “The program was outstanding. All of it was well planned and the staff was very professional; I appreciated their pleasant smiles and friendly voices.”
  • “The most helpful part of the program was clearly the nursing staff. They took time to clearly define and answer all questions and their working knowledge of anatomy was communicated in terms that all could understand. I especially benefited from the in-depth reviews concerning how the heart worked and how procedures and/or drugs could work to correct issues.”
  • “Thank you for your support and for guiding me through this difficult time. Words cannot express my gratitude for all you have done. Your kindness and compassion is greatly appreciated.”
  • “I was overwhelmed with your kindness and caring.”
  • “Thank you for your extraordinary kindness, guidance and support.”
  • “I could not have done this without you.”
  • “You all are my angels.”
  • “Thank you for your support in a time when I was freaking out.”
  • “The Breast Center put the care in health care.”
  • “I really did not have any comment about how it could have been better. I have been to (patient named 3 other area hospitals) and have had surgery at all three of those facilities. None of them even compare to St. Joseph. I’ve had very good experiences there. Your staff is very welcoming and if I have to have another procedure done. I plan on going to St. Joseph.”
  • “I think that the nurses did an excellent job in taking care of me – they were always there. They did just an excellent job-that’s what I really have to say. And the doctor too did an excellent job taking care of me. I found I got excellent care at St. Joe. I had a very good experience there and I highly recommend it. I had no problem whatsoever.”