I am taking this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to the Saint Francis/Mount Sinai Regional Cancer Center at Saint Francis. My husband Ron was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer in November of 2005. He was agressively treated for three years, which allowed us to enjoy our grandchildren and travel for the time we had left together.
During this time, I witnessed so much love and care from his nurse Gloria and Dr. Dinadio. The level of compassion was unmeasurable during such a devastating and emotional time. I knew after his passing that I had to do whatever I could to give back. Nine months later I became a volunteer at the Cancer Center and am now on five years.
Every week, when I walk on that Cancer Floor, there is a positive atmosphere. The nurses are upbeat and it gives the patients hope and positive energy that fills the center. I hear patients say all the time how friendly and warm the staff is, and how much compassion they have. We laugh together, we cry together, but most importatnly I try to make them feel they are not alone.
One conversation I will always remember, was when a patient I saw regularly said to me,“it takes a village to care for a cancer patient, and you’re part of that village.” I was overwhelmed with emotion and how my small efforts made a difference in her care.
For many years my family has been associated with Saint Francis. The level of care and compassion led me to my dedication to volunteering my time to help others.