Breast Cancer Survivor Finds Care, Thanks to Charitable Flights
Unexpected Struggle
2008 was a year of unexpected events. For middle-aged Cora, this was especially true. It was the year her health began to deteriorate, after finding out she had a rare form of breast cancer. By the time doctors found the cancer, it was already in an advanced stage. Worse, it was beginning to spread to other parts of Cora's body.
Aggressive Treatments and Aftermath
The doctors prescribed Cora a powerful drug that targeted her rare breast cancer, along with radiation. After finishing up the aggressive treatment, there was good news and bad news. The good news: Cora was finally cancer free, and would just need checkups and scans every now and then to make sure she stayed that way. The bad news: the radiation had damaged her lymphatic system, leading fluid to collect in her left arm and hand.
Needing Surgery
Cora tried just about everything to relieve the painful swelling caused by lymphedema. All the solutions were short-term at best. It soon became clear that her best option was to see a surgeon who specialized in lymphatic plastic surgery. This surgeon could drain the excess fluid, and help restore the appearance and function of her arm and hand.
From Battle...
Cora's research showed there were very few of these specialist surgeons in practice. She figured her best bet would be one in Columbus, Ohio. Unfortunately, Cora lives in a small town in Arizona. There was no way she could afford airfare, even though it was medically necessary. She had entered a whole different level of battle. How would she make it through?
...To Blessing
That was when Cora discovered Mercy Medical Angels. Mercy Medical Angels and the Hogan Family Foundation teamed up. Together, they planned and covered Cora's medically necessary travel. Now, she was able to see the specialist in Ohio. Cora was starting to get her life back.
"Gives Me a Sense of Hope"
Cora has since returned home to Arizona, and she's doing better than ever. She said of Mercy Medical Angels: "Having assistance planning the travel, along with the financial assistance, made a big difference for me." She continued: "Often, I carry my battle against cancer alone. To reach out and know that there are caring people gives me a sense of hope."
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