News & Stories

In 2023, my world stopped. The words “stage 3 triple-negative breast cancer” hit me like a wave, leaving me breathless, terrified, and unsure of what the future held. At the time, I was a mother proud of my son’s accomplishments and his drive to achieve more, a small business owner working hard to make a name for myself, and a mother-in-law grateful for my daughter-in-law’s admirable work ethic and unwavering loyalty. Suddenly, everything I had built—everything I had hoped for—seemed uncertain.

Faced with the hardest decision of my life, I turned to MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper. I had heard nothing but incredible stories about Cooper, and from the moment I walked through the doors, I knew I had made the right choice.

More Than Just Treatment—A Family

The care I received at Cooper was unlike anything I could have imagined. From the warm greetings at check-in to the compassionate nurses during blood work and chemotherapy, every person I encountered treated me with kindness, dignity, and respect. They weren’t just professionals—though they were some of the best. They treated me like family.

I actually looked forward to my treatments—not because chemo was easy, but because I got to see the incredible people who had become such an important part of my journey. They knew me. They cared. And that made all the difference.

I will forever be grateful to Dr. Hussein, his nurse practitioner Katie, Dr. Flannery, and Dr. Fahey—as well as every nurse who took the time to listen, to comfort, and to make my battle just a little easier.

Relief in the Midst of Uncertainty

One of my biggest fears, aside from the cancer itself, was how I would afford my treatment. The weight of medical bills on top of everything else felt unbearable.

That’s when Lisa Mclaughlin, Clinical Lead Social Worker, stepped in. She didn’t just help me fill out applications—she became a lifeline. She constantly checked in, updated me on grants I qualified for, and made sure I had the financial support I needed. Because of her dedication and the generosity of donors, a significant portion of my treatment costs were covered.

I cannot put into words the relief I felt. Instead of worrying about how I would pay for the care I needed, I was able to focus on healing.

A New Outlook on Life

Since completing my treatment at Cooper, my life has changed in ways I never expected. Yes, my hair has grown back—but more importantly, I have a renewed sense of purpose, gratitude, and joy. I don’t take a single moment for granted anymore, because I know how quickly everything can change.

To those facing a similar battle, my advice is simple:

➡ Go to MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper.

➡ Lean on their programs, their support groups, and their incredible team.

➡ Hold onto your faith and never give up.

Your Support Makes Stories Like Mine Possible

Every day, people like me hear the words “you have cancer.” But thanks to Cooper—and the generosity of people like you—those words don’t have to mean the end of hope.

Your support provides life-saving treatment, compassionate care, and financial assistance to patients who need it most. You helped give me a second chance at life. Please, give others the same opportunity.

Make a gift today—because hope starts with you.

Every day, people like Roxanne face the unimaginable. But with your support, they don’t have to face it alone. Your generosity ensures that every patient receives the best care, the strongest support system, and the greatest chance at a second life. Make a gift today—because hope starts with you.