Patricia has called South Florida home her whole life. She grew up in Hollywood, FL, with deep ties to Memorial Healthcare System; her uncle was even one of its founders. So, when she needed cancer care, there was only one place she wanted to go.

"It's the only hospital system I'd ever want to go to," she said.

Patricia's confidence in Memorial didn't come out of nowhere. A few years before her own diagnosis, her husband was treated for throat cancer at Memorial Regional Hospital. She watched him get outstanding care from a team he trusted completely.

When Patricia was diagnosed with rectal cancer in 2024, she knew exactly where to go. She wanted the same wonderful care her husband had received, and that's exactly what she found at Memorial Cancer Institute.

At 87, Patricia faced her diagnosis with the support of a full team of specialists. Her care included Jesus Fabregas, MD, GI medical oncologist; Gabriel Ologun, MD, surgical oncologist; and Aaron Falchook, MD, radiation oncologist.

Together, this team guided Patricia through about a year of treatment. Today, she is completely free of cancer.

"The doctors are wonderful. Everyone is so caring and helped me get through that time," she said. "They had the best equipment; everything was so encouraging. They all made me feel like I was going to get through this."

After her surgery, Patricia’s recovery continued at home with help from Memorial Home Care, giving her the support she needed to heal in the comfort of her own space. Today, she is cancer-free and living her best life.