Our Story

Patricia Meyer

Patricia MeyerThe day I found out I had cancer I ... Called my family and my daughter cried but I had dealt with cancer since I was 11 years old since my mother died of breast cancer at 49. I was concerned but I had faith I would be ok.

Telling my family was ... I had a concern but I wasn't that worried or excited, I didn't have any fear since I had dealt with it with my mother. My greatest fear was having to lose my hair and the unknown of the treatments.

The first day I felt hopeful was... the day they told me. It's the unknown I think that really gets you, not knowing what your treatments are going to be, having to set up your next appointment. Meeting new doctors and trusting what they tell you that you are going to be alright.

Thoughts and people who kept me positive...my faith. Paul, the love of my life who also died of cancer 3 ½ years ago and trusting the treatment.

One of the most wonderful things that was said to me was... that Dr. Paz at City of Hope could do the surgery the day as the Dr. in my hometown. That I was in Stage I and it was the early stages and curable. The 2nd time, 9 years later I heard a voice in the shower say “I'm back” and Dr. Paz's phone call that I had 3 tumors stage II. I knew when I heard the voice in the shower that I had to do surgery, chemo and radiation and that I could use the experience to help others. I am a volunteer for the American Cancer Society, Road to Recovery Program for the last 12 years.

One of the most wonderful things that was done for me was... being able to get my treatments at City of Hope. All the love and concern was shown to me through the doctors, nurses, pastoral care department and the many friendships I have developed over the years. City of Hope gave me the gift of life 2 times.

Here's one of the things I've learned about myself...That my faith and prayer from my friends at church will see me thru. My Paul was with me the 2 times I had cancer and the day I was told I had the Broca II gene. I know can depend on my faith to see me thru.

Here's one of the things I've learned about my family (or friends)... My church family and my family are behind me 100%. I have two young men who have taken over for Paul, who watch over me very closely. They were big supporters when I went through cancer the second time. They could tell in my voice when I needed to go for a delicious dessert. They would pick me up, treat me to a goodie and bring me home.

What emotions did I feel when I was diagnosed and through the process. I've cried, felt grief and lots of love through family, friends and my faith. Volunteering at City Of Hope and being able to give back to someone who has given me the gift of life twice.

Anything funny happen to you during this experience? I named by breasts. The right one is droopy snoopy and the left one is Miss Perky. I lost half a breast the first time, and the second time Dr. Pog came out and told Paul, Marshall, and Sherry that I would like this one much better that it was perky...so I named it Ms. Perky.

The things people said to you that were helpful and weren't helpful... People were very kind and supportive. I had no one being negative towards me. All the staff at City Of Hope are kind, loving and very supportive. Paul was my biggest supporter. When I lost my hair the second time he said he loved my head just as it was.
 
What do you want people to know....That with early detection they can cure almost all cancers. Ladies be sure to have your yearly pap smears and mammograms. These can save lives. Join us for the breast cancer walk at City Of Hope every year. Help raise monies to keep research going. I know someday they will tell us there is a cure for all CANCER...and men have their PSA on a regular basis.