2023 Cancer Wellness Center - WHAT IS YOUR WHY?
My sister and I joined the Associate Board of the CWC as a way to honor the memory of my mother and her battle with breast cancer and lymphoma. She was a dedicated philanthropist throughout her life, and I know she is smiling down now on the work we do to support people affected by cancer.
From Andrew Westfall
What is my WHY:
April 23, 1999, changed my life forever. My mom had been having some nagging discomfort in her abdominal area for several months; she was 57 years old, therefore it first it was attributed to menopause. None of the prescribed remedies helped alleviate her pain; in fact, it was getting worse. Her doctors suggested she go in for exploratory surgery so they could get a better look inside. None of my life experiences had led me to think they would find anything major; she was a healthy, vibrant, hard-working, active woman in her fifties. On the afternoon of April 23, 1999, my dad called from the hospital. When the doctors had a chance to get a better look, they discovered C-A-N-C-E-R, Ovarian Cancer Stage 3C. The doctors were creating a treatment plan, but the diagnosis was terminal. That did not stop my mom from fighting; she fought and fought hard but ultimately succumbed to the cancer. I promised not to let her fight be in vain; I have been sharing her story and the subtle early symptoms of OVCA ever since. I run for my hero, Lillie Ann Bentsen, and for all of the researchers and medical professionals tirelessly working to cure all cancer forever.
From Barb DeCesare
The CWC loved my husband, Jim Shinker, for many years. First as a carpenter, then as a friend, then as family, finally as a patient. Cancer took my husband away 27 months ago. He was only 60 years old. Our son has almost completed nursing school to become an oncology nurse to honor his father. Our son participates to honor his wonderful father. I participate in memory of my sweet, funny, kind, beloved husband Jim (Leo) Shinker.
Judy Shinker
From Judy Shinker
On November 18, 2018, we found out my father, Ramon Acosta, had a uncurbable brain cancer (glioblastoma) that would sadly take his life away exactly two years later on November 18, 2020. Throughout his battle, my dad was always was so positive. He completed all his radiation and chemo treatments with a smile on his face. All his doctors and nurses called him the perfect patient. He never complained and always would tell us to have faith. As his daughter, I can truly say he was an amazing father. He was always putting his family before himself. God must have needed him in heaven since he was gone so soon. Daddy, you will never be forgotten and your legacy of love and faith will forever live with us. We miss you so much!"
From Yadira Rivera
