Read inspiring stories of strength, perseverance, and hope from those we’ve had the privilege of caring for at the Helen G. Nassif Community Cancer Center.
In the early months of 2021, Lynda Haddy of Cedar Rapids, an avid biker who spends a lot of time on sunny trails in summer, noticed a new spot on her leg. At first, she didn’t think much of it.
As a retired radiographer, Paula Allison of Springville, IA, certainly understands the importance of receiving an annual mammogram to screen for breast cancer and has one done every year. This past year was no exception. She went in for her
A cancer diagnosis can impact a person’s life in many ways, both during treatment and beyond. Cancer survivors may deal with a wide range of effects as a result of their treatment including stress and anxiety, body image and sexuality
Alanna Sion of Cedar Rapids was diagnosed with breast cancer in September of 2020. Surgery and radiation treatments followed, which caused some side effects, as well as general disruption in Sion’s routine. “I felt overloaded. There was an overall imbalance
Michele Frederick is a fighter. Diagnosed with cancer more than two decades ago, Frederick continues to receive treatment for a brain tumor. But she is determined to stay strong. A key player helping Frederick on her journey is Matt Schmitz,
At the Nassif Community Cancer Center, the phrase “Fighting Cancer Together” is more than just words on billboard or a t-shirt. They’re words we live by. Our way of saying we take a collaborative approach to cancer by providing coordinated
In June 2022, Molly Jordan of Marion, went to St. Luke’s Breast and Bone Health for her annual mammogram. She hadn’t been experiencing any symptoms and expected it to be routine. However, results showed a questionable spot, and she had
In July 2019, Adrienne Douglas of Cedar Rapids was thrust into a role not many 25-year-olds are asked to take on: being a caregiver for her 39-year-old husband Zach following his stage IV colon cancer diagnosis. Adrienne walked alongside Zach
A cancer diagnosis not only affects the patient, but the patient’s loved ones as well. Often a loved one becomes a caregiver and walks alongside the patient through the cancer journey. Adrienne Douglas served as the primary caregiver for her
“NED.” Three letters that every cancer patient wants to hear from their care team. It’s an acronym which stands for “No Evidence of Disease,” and that’s exactly what Stage IV colon cancer survivor Phil Decker heard from his care team
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