AS THE END OF THE YEAR APPROACHES, most of us tend to reflect on what we have accomplished over the past 12 months. These accomplishments also include the rough times that we have gone through and survived. Both the good and the bad deserve reflection.
As an organization, the same thing applies. We have been supporting local cancer patients for 13 years now! Who have we helped through their cancer journey and who have we lost this year? For me, the loss is more impactful. Perhaps because it sticks with me longer. Allow me to shed some light on our community impact by joining me for a moment to look back on two personal stories—out of hundreds—that took place this past year:
Vicki was diagnosed with breast cancer late in 2020, her second cancer diagnosis in two years! Not really sure what to do since she would be receiving chemo and radiation together, Vicki reached out to Cancer Connection of NWO for help in understanding her diagnosis. She was provided with a patient advocate through our Hand-In-Hand program who met Vicki at her oncology appointments, helped her find transportation to treatments, helped with the financial strain of new medications, coordinated appointments, and found financial assistance for her. As Vicki approaches the end of surviving yet another cancer, Cancer Connection of NWO makes sure that Vicki has everything she needs so she can focus on healing and getting stronger every day.
Kaylee was diagnosed when she was two years old with a neuroblas-toma tumor in her abdomen. After many chemo treatments, she was considered cancer free. However, as is common with neuroblastoma, it came back again when Kaylee was four. Once again, her family struggled financially. They were introduced to Cancer Connection of NWO and were provided much support through our Kids Konnection program, including financial assistance, meals, gas cards, clothes, Christmas gifts for the family, hospital visits, and more. After receiving numerous treatments and clinical trials, Kaylee was once again considered cancer free. In 2021, this beautiful little girl was diagnosed with cancer for a third time and the cancer was now in her brain. Kaylee turned seven years old in July and gained her wings in September, 2021.
My intention is for both stories to inspire you. Not only for all that we do in our community but, most importantly, for the strength and resilience of those around us. Let this also serve as a reminder that life is too short to be anything but happy. As this year ends, be sure to reflect on all that you have accomplished, all that you have endured, and especially all that you have to be thankful for.
Wishing you many blessings for the holidays and into the new year.
Jean Schoen is the founder and president of Cancer Connection of Northwest Ohio, Inc. (419-725-1100).
