our participant stories

In February 2009 I was in the emergency room. After countless hours and numerous tests, Rick and I were told I had stage-four cancer. We were in such shock that the only thing we could say was that we needed a second opinion and time to think. Thus began my battle with cancer. Six days later I had emergency surgery. Although the surgery was successful, the prognosis was not good.

While I worked on recovering from the surgery, Rick searched the Internet to seek information and resources. This is how we found the Cancer Support Community Central Ohio. We participated in the Welcome to Wellness where we learned about all their many cancer wellness programs and services offered at no cost. We were also introduced to several other participants who made u feel very welcomed and comfortable. All the facilitators and participants were so encouraging which gave use hope for the first time since I was diagnosed.

Rick and I started attending activities at CSC. While the doctors were telling me that I could not survive, everyone at CSC was helping us to believe that I could. Rick read in the Cancer Support Community book that "every cancer has a survival rate." That quote has been a lifeline for us.

The Cooking for Wellness classes showed us new healthy eating options as well as an enjoyable evening. We have learned about Mindfulness Meditation and how Chi can help relax and heal the body. Each facilitator, participant, volunteer, and staff member has listened to our concerns, shared their own experiences and has always encouraged us to believe in my healing. The community at the Cancer Support Community has become a key part of our community of support.

We have recently gotten to know Bev Soult, Cancer Support Community Central Ohio, President/CEO much better and what a kind person she is. She has taken CSC to a new level and her dedication to sustaining the Cancer Support Community is invigorating. She is an excellent steward of the organization and we're proud to be a part of the growing community. We recently joined others from CSC on an NBC Call 4 Panel, for the Stand Up To Cancer news special. We had the privilege of speaking with people who had questions and concerns about their or loved one's cancer. We were able to pass on the hope and the encouragement that CSC gave to us.