Your Story Matters: Friends Don’t Let Friends Fight Cancer Alone

In 2021, one of our Therapy Program Managers, Suzette, was diagnosed with cancer. Even while navigating her own treatment, she continued leading a weekly strength and balance class for the Independent Living residents in her community.

Barb, one of the residents who attended the class, noticed Suzette was losing her hair and a conversation ensued. Barb had just finished cancer treatment herself and fully understood the journey that Suzette was on. While Suzette was receiving treatment, Barb checked on her each week during the class. Barb became a source of strength and encouragement to Suzette while receiving strength and balance exercises. 

Through their weekly touch points, they discovered they had both received services from the Victory Center, a local agency that provides cancer wellness services to individuals and families who face cancer diagnoses. They also discussed the possibility of starting a support group for anyone currently going through treatment of any cancer, survivors, family members or friends. 

Suzette’s journey lasted well over 4 years with various treatments and surgeries due to lymphedema complications. A few months ago, Suzette and Barb made their conversations of the possibility of starting a support group become a reality. The support group is led by Suzette, Barb and Jason, the community's pastor.

In the short time the support group has been organized, it has been slowing growing through word of mouth. Thus, creating new meaningful bonds between residents that might not have been formed otherwise. The support group has already done good deeds to be supportive of others. This new support group underscores one of the logos Suzette used for a T shirt fundraiser for the Victory Center…..”Friends don’t let friends fight cancer alone”. Creating community to surround those experiencing the many challenges that cancer diagnoses can bring will provide strength to win!