In honor of World Cancer Day, we are sharing Patricia’s story of strength, gratitude, and hope. After ringing the celebratory gong once she completed chemotherapy at Memorial Cancer Institute this past January, Patricia was surrounded by the people who helped carry her through that moment that marked more than the end of treatment. It was a celebration of early detection, expert care, and the power of support.

A Breast Cancer Screening That Changed Everything

In July 2025, Patricia went in for routine breast imaging with no symptoms and no reason to think anything was wrong. It was during a breast ultrasound that her tumor was discovered, leading to a diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma. She credits the imaging team with saving her life and says she thanks God every day for that ultrasound. For Patricia, the message is clear and urgent. Early detection made all the difference in her journey.

“You always need to check because early detection will save your life,” she said.

That early diagnosis gave Patricia options, a plan, and a care team ready to guide her forward.

Finding Strength in Love

As a mom to her 11-year-old son, Matthias, Patricia knew she had to stay strong, not just for herself but for him. She was honest about what was ahead.

“I’m not dying, but I’m going to go through this treatment, and it’s going to help me,” she told him.

She says her son became the strength she needed to keep going, even on the hardest days.

Trusting Her Breast Cancer Care Team

From the start, Patricia felt she was exactly where she needed to be. While researching her diagnosis, she came across Erica Bloomquist, MD, breast surgical oncologist at Memorial Cancer Institute, and immediately felt a sense of confidence and connection. Her primary care doctor ended up recommending Dr. Bloomquist as well.

“Right away, I saw Dr. Bloomquist online and felt a connection,” Patricia said. “She explained everything to me. I was so strong but also so vulnerable and Dr. Bloomquist walked me through everything I needed to know.”

Patricia later continued her care with Adriana Milillo Naraine, MD, breast medical oncologist, and also received nutrition counseling with Layla Silverman, RD, registered dietitian and board-certified in oncology nutrition, to make supportive and practical changes to her diet throughout treatment.

Chemotherapy: Facing the Hardest Moments

Patricia underwent four rounds of chemotherapy. While she approached treatment with determination, some moments felt especially difficult.

“The day I lost my hair was the day it felt real,” she shared. “That’s when I felt like I had cancer. You feel exposed.”

Even then, she never felt alone. Patricia speaks with deep gratitude about the nurses who cared for her during each visit.

“I love all the nurses. I have no complaints. I’ve been truly blessed. I don’t know how these nurses do it every day.”

A Celebration Filled With Gratitude

On her fourth and final day of treatment, what was meant to be a small gong ringing to celebrate the end of her chemo treatment and the beginning of survivorship, turned into something much bigger. So many friends and family members came to support her that the celebration had to be moved into the lobby to fit everyone.

But Patricia made sure the moment was not only about her. She brought scarves from Ecuador, where she is from, as gifts for the team that cared for her. Her gong ringing became a shared celebration of healing, teamwork, and gratitude.

“I know it was a celebration for me, but I wanted to celebrate them,” she said.

Turning Experience Into Purpose

Now that treatment is behind her, Patricia is focused on using her voice to help others.

“My mission after this experience is to speak out, and if there’s any way that I can help women about what’s going to happen when starting chemo, I want to help,” she said. “It doesn’t have to be scary. Now I can share my story and say, see, it’s not so scary.”

Her advice to others who are just beginning treatment is grounded in honesty and hope.

“Be prepared physically and mentally. It is scary, but this is what’s going to save you. Trust your doctors and trust the treatment. A positive mindset is going to help you through this. Take one day at a time.”

Patricia describes ringing the victory gong as "the perfect celebration." She knows that not everyone goes through treatment with a large support system, and she does not take hers for granted.

Patricia's story is one of many, and you can help ensure more patients and families feel supported when they need it most. Join the Memorial Foundation in supporting those facing cancer through emergency assistance funds - so no one has to face the fight alone. Donate today.