FACES of Cancer

By VENUE Magazine Lisa Boushay-Ownby Renie Melcher Penne Ferris Jay Ballinger David Jordan Jim Thorn Juan Quintero Brett Moser Wendy Thomas Cynthia Dano John Gamboa Lacey Radel

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Faces of Cancer

Samaritan Hospital

(509) 765-5606 801 E. Wheeler Road in Moses Lake

Samaritan Clinic

(509) 793-9770 1550 S. Pioneer Way in Moses Lake

Samaritan Parkview Pediatrics

(509) 766-9450 615 S. Division in Moses Lake

Samaritan Urgent Care

(509) 793-9790 1550 S. Pioneer Way in Moses Lake

www.samaritanhealthcare.com

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Faces of Cancer

Melea Johnson - Publisher

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he personal stories within are carefully chosen and shaped by the teller, in hopes of opening gateways to understanding the reality of living life with cancer. The people and their families featured, have had to learn to live with the vastness of what they do not know, and what they cannot control.

Yet, a great determination washes over them and they somehow fight when cancer is tearing at their very core, even when doing so it seems, unbearable or simply impossible.

In their honesty and vulnerability, they will tell you, they are scared. And worried. But, they will also tell you, LIFE is worth fighting for. Their heart touched in moments of the awareness of what is most important in their lives, challenged each of them to somehow find answers within themselves and with that which is larger than themselves. Unfolded in the telling, they speak of life that looks different to them now, and they inspire each of us to think about what

is truly important, with a congruent response being: family, faith, close friends, and a caring community.

These heroic people put careful focus on living each day, fully. With purposeful contemplation, they know the value of each new morning. They have approached the cancer that demands the attention of their whole family and in concert with a team of cancer-care professionals, have mapped out the territory of their own private journey with deliberate effort to fight it. They have gone through recommended treatment, because frankly, the alternative is a non-option. They have endured pain and sickness for the chance to feel normal down the road. The have experienced the moments of misery in order to be completely present in moments of progression.

So, along with the treasured love and support of family, close friends, caring professionals, and the spirit of the human heart, they have stood, or are still standing, in the very center of a fierce battle, and have fought, or are continuing to fight, against a destructive and underhanded enemy. With all they’ve got.

As a community, we offer up earnest hope for the wellness of these warriors. ~Melea Johnson

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Robin L. Green - Chief Photographer

Joe LaRosee - Creative Director / Design

had the experience of working on this very involved project spotlighting people in the Columbia Basin affected by cancer. I did the photography for it, for all of their very unique and individual stories. One shoot after another with cancer at the core.

You might think this would have been depressing.

My personality is such that I soak things up and carry emotions deeply. But the really cool thing that I found during this photo project was that I took something from each person that they had no idea they even gave away. Something positive and full of light.

I realized with crystal clarity the value of even a single uneventful day. And maybe it’s not going how you had planned, but the value of it still remains. I am lucky to have been given this gift of insight into others’ experiences. It has a way of sorting things out and making the sky extra blue.

had no idea going into this project how affected I would be. I have seen what cancer can do to people I love. I have seen friends, and friends of friends fight the battle and win. I have read the news of famous people losing their fight. I have been shocked to see young people... very young people right in our own community diagnosed with the news you never want to hear.

We are surrounded by cancer. It may sound dark and pessimistic, but it is true. We are surrounded by the fear that it could be us, our kids, or our husbands or wives.

But I have found that we are surrounded by so much more. We are surrounded by fight. We are surrounded by love. We are surrounded by unconditional support. We are surrounded by survivors who are tough as nails, yet value every precious second they have been given on this earth, even if it is just to sit with a friend in silence.

We are surrounded by cancer. But to me, that no longer sounds “dark and pessimistic.” It gives me hope that if I should ever have to walk that path, I am surrounded by many faces. Strong, loving, and supportive faces of cancer.

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~Robin L Green

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~Joe LaRosee

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Faces of Cancer

Cynthia Dano - Project Originator

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hen I was given the cancer diagnoses I was afraid...afraid of dying. When I stepped back and suspended the fear, what I realized was I felt an immense loss of control. And while none of us can control the “when” of the inevitable, I realized I could control so much else. I could educate myself about the disease, I could choose treatment and what kind, I could become an advocate for my health... I could help someone else. Perhaps I could help someone with cancer...manage, recover or potentially even help prevent her/him from getting cancer. That sounded like the most rewarding thing I could imagine.

A lot happened when I shifted my attitude. A healthier, happier me happened. A new career journey as a health coach happened. “Faces of Cancer” happened. I owe so much to my friend, Melea, who so willingly took the idea of creating this magazine and worked graciously to bring it to fruition; and to my friend, Robin, who brought the stories to life in such a compelling way; and to Joe for paginating all efforts into an artistic design.

The stories, like the people, are inspiring and I am thankful to each of them for sharing a part of their lives, their stories and their wonderful attitudes.

I would like to dedicate this to the loving memory of Ashtyn Osborne. ~Cynthia Dano

Jan Thacker - Copy Editor

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hat an honor it was to edit the personal accounts written by these precious people who have struggled, or are still struggling, through cancer. Their stories have touched my heart, made me cry, left me emotionally drained, and created in me an enormous respect for their ability to journey down these paths that were eroded with pain, heartache, suffering, but, sometimes, joy. Most amazingly, every single person received something of immense value while traveling through this darkness - be it recognizing the value of time and family, or discovering an overwhelming triumph of faith.

Normally, editing is an easy task but this time I read each story carefully, searching for clues and advice and wisdom. Why? Because my 20-year-old grandson has melanoma cancer and been through two extensive surgeries on his neck and face. By the time you read this he will know if the last biopsies will declare him cancer-free or if he faces chemotherapy and possibly more surgery.

Life is precious. Family and friends are precious.

May we all better behold the beauty that surrounds us, hold those we love more tightly, relish each and every day, and uplift the Creator who, with grace and love, grants us these blessings. ~Jan Thacker

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Where it began

By Melea Johnson ourage is found in the most unlikely places. On a day in February, one year ago, I saw the face of courage at the Thorp Fruit Stand outside of Ellensburg.

Walking in I spotted Cynthia Dano's husband, Brian, meandering through the foods on the main floor. When he saw me, he pointed upstairs where Cynthia was scouting for vintage salt & pepper shakers to add to her eclectic collection. I hurried to see her. I will never forget the moment I reached to hug her...she stopped me because she had recently received an implanted port in her chest, which was necessary for the type of chemo treatment she was about to begin. Her hesitancy to receive a hug was the moment it became real to me. My friend has cancer.

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I drove home to Moses Lake with a sorrow that reveals itself when something is so real. Her friends, me included, know Cynthia as a person who lives life to the fullest-a captain of her own ship sort of gal. So now what?

A few days later she called me with an idea. She wanted to meet for lunch to discuss it-we did. We talked about her vision to make something good out of a bad situation.

She wondered..." Could we bring awareness to ALL types of cancer...and the faces that go with that cancer? Could we provide a platform for their stories to be heard? Could we give hope to someone who has cancer? Could we encourage people to go see their doctor before it was too late?" Yes, my friend with cancer....we can.

FACES of CANCER magazine is a collection of stories written about heroic people in our community. People who fight an enemy that has waged against them. Cancer. Some of the faces featured are in the trenches right now struggling to find hope, and some are experiencing the victory hoped for. We invite you to know them better and be inspired by their courage.

VENUE MAGAZINE

February / 2016

Published by: Venue Media Group, Inc Publisher: Melea Johnson Director of Layout & Design: Joe LaRosee Photographer: Robin L. Green Copy Editor: Jan Thacker Sales: Melea Johnson, Sue Tebow, Contributing Writers: Melea Johnson, Robin L. Green

Venue Magazine, PO Box 820, Moses Lake, WA 98837 509 431-3573 Melea Johnson / 509 760-0503 Sue Tebow info@thevenuemag.com / thevenuemag.com /

By VENUE Magaz

ine

Lisa Boushay-O wnby Renie Melcher Penne Ferris Jay Ballinger David Jordan Jim Thorn Juan Quintero Brett Moser Wendy Thomas Cynthia Dano John Gamboa Lacey Radel

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Faces of Cancer

A walk e roses through th W

estmont Park Roses is like stepping into something straight out of the movies. Just past the two giant walnut trees that stand guard as nature’s gate keeper, paradise can be visited. A perfect outing for you and your loved one. A perfect setting for a special occasion.

The grounds are located on a two acre private home in Soap Lake that blooms with one acre of the most fragrant, garden fresh roses. Each of the nearly 1500 rose bushes, specially selected by owners John Martin and Robert Leonard Salmons, are chosen with fragrance, and beauty in mind.

The lush surroundings involve your every sense.

Visually the color of the flowers, reminds you of the romance of the rose, against the deep green walls of sculpted arborvitae, that serve as dividers between

gardens. At every bend, you are met with hints of fragrances that work with the rest of nature as if you were surrounded by essential oils, which serve as subtle reminders of things like your grandmother’s Rose Mild and guide you back to those memories of a more simple time. A place to simply stop and smell the roses.

Used for hundreds of years to convey messages without words, the rose stands alone in its rich symbolism conveying warmth, and affection. The rose speaks of love silently, in a language known only to the heart. Fragrant garden fresh roses – by the stem or arranged in an individually customized bouquet is a beautiful gift to share.

Roses available during the growing season June through September. Garden Tours also available June through September. Please contact us to reserve grounds for special occasion or event.

Westmont Park Roses / Hawthorne at Road 20 / Soap Lake, Washington / 509 398-ROSE (7673)

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] s n o [ Not Just Ribb

The tractor is an International and is 1957 circa. There were only 1400 of them produced. Â

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Plowing a Path for a Cure

In 2004, Northwest Farm Credit Services CFO Michal Armstrong lost his battle with breast cancer.

Several other Northwest FCS employees and customers have or are currently fighting the battle, as well.

In the spring of 2013, Northwest FCS and AgDirect employees teamed up to create

“The Pink Tractor.�

This tractor travels throughout the Northwest, attending community events, customer appreciation days, agriculture shows and cancer races - raising thousands of dollars for breast cancer awareness and research. We are dedicated to the cause and will not stop until a cure is found.

1501 E. Yonezawa Blvd., Moses Lake, WA / 509-764-2700 / 800-443-0988 / northwestfcs.com

David Jordan

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Favorite Quote “Experience is not what happens to you; it’s what you do with what happens to you.” ~Aldous Huxley

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s a kid, David Jordan enjoyed the simplicity of life and not having to worry about anything.

With a favorite childhood memory being one where he is fishing with his dad, he notes that his family and hard-working people have, and continue to, inspire him daily.

Today, David is a production supervisor at Takata in Moses Lake. His parents live in Othello, and he has a little brother who lives in Australia. Describing

himself as a simple person who enjoys the company of good people, visiting with him also exposes his desire for action in his world. Already he has crossed sky diving off his list, and is still looking to drive a Ferrari on a race track. Racing motocross around the Northwest with one of his best friends growing up has continued to be a large part of who he is.

This action slowed down when he experienced pains in his stomach for about a year. It took some

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"Look for an orange motorcycle, he will be riding a motorcycle."

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look into the hot summer sun at the top of the hill, and on the horizon a spot of orange rounds the corner, rider low to the bike, helmet hiding a bald head. He comes straight at me on the bike.

I know he will be young. He removes the helmet and there is this young, handsome fellow with a friendly smile and deep soulful eyes. Wisdom in those eyes...more wisdom than years. He extends his handshake. I feel like I know him already. I do not know anything about his cancer. At this moment I don't want to only because I want to photograph this young person in his prime, without the dark shadow of illness hanging over our shoot. The bike. A rocket on two wheels to speed him through the troubles that follow. I think to myself: this is so unfair. But I don't see that in David's face. Nope. I see so much more than cancer. I see a warrior on an orange motorcycle. ~ Robin Green, Photographer

time to discover neuroendocrine cancer. Shortly after the diagnosis, the cancer had spread to three quarters of his liver, causing the liver to be enlarged to more than twice the normal size. Chemotheraphy and radiation was recommended.

“Sometimes I feel like it’s all a bad dream and eventually I’ll wake up and everything will be fine,” shares David. “Some days are harder than others. I try to carry on like normal, but I do rely on the support

of my family and friends. It can be overwhelming.

My parents and my girlfriend, Cassie, go with me to all major doctor appointments and chemotheraphy treatments.

I am very thankful to have had friends drive a couple hours out of the way when I have been really sick to come help me out. I have had co-workers deliver me meals, as well. This whole experience has changed my outlook on life. I am grateful for good people.”

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John Gamboa

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y name is John Gamboa. I am 76 years old. I grew up in Edinburg, Texas, where my favorite pastimes were going to school, playing with friends and being in a large loving family with brothers and sisters and parents who inspired me to live life to the fullest. I still love to visit there.

The most incredible and rewarding accomplishments in my life are my marriage and my two children. If I was to ask an artist to paint a picture to represent my life with my family as I see it, it would be a canvas of blue skies.

As a barber by profession, I have learned to be a very good listener. I enjoy visiting with the customers who come through my door. Everyone has

Favorite Quote “Take one day at a time.�

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is face says so much about him.

Kind, witty, full of life and love.

And wouldn't it just figure the guy in the chair has been getting his hair cut for over 40 years by this man. Longer than many marriages. I watch him and imagine how many haircuts he has to have given over the years. How many discussions, consultations and confessions have centered around a sharp pair of scissors and surgeon-like hands. Barber shops are so All-American. So steady in the stream of busy workers and downtown life. I had not met Mr. Gamboa before my shoot. I left so glad I had met him-this man ordinary beyond measure-so much that there is nothing ordinary about him.

their own story, and I listen to them. A perfect day to me is to be able to do the things I do.

Not many people know of my cancer. I was diagnosed with liver cancer in January of 2014.

Chemotherapy was recommended, so I completed three treatments and a MRI every three months.

I think the thing that has changed for me the most in the battle I am in is that I understand things a lot better and I see life differently than before. I know the Lord is my strength. My family is my inspiration. And, with that solid foundation of hope, I made the determination to simply take one day at a time.

~ Robin Green, Photographer

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Renie Melcher

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y name is Lorene Melcher, aka Renie. I am 61 years old. I grew up in Ephrata with no real worries. I always felt loved and protected. My favorite childhood memory is going to Montana every summer for a family two-week vacation. To live and laugh was certainly the lesson I learned from the unconditional love of family and friends.

Today, it is that unconditional love I had in my childhood that I still pull my strength from. My mother and father have both passed, but will be forever in my heart. The most incredible accomplishment I feel I have experienced in my life is the love of family. My husband and I enjoy three beautiful daughters and four awesome grandsons.

I work at Moses Lake Family Dentistry as a front desk receptionist and scheduling coordinator. Meeting and greeting the patients and helping them feel comfortable is a favorite part of my job; letting people know they are important, not just a patient.

Travel is on my list of things I wish to do. I would love to take a Viking Cruise; visit Germany, Paris, the Hawaiian tropics, or go to a beautiful ocean beach house. And of course, experience a zip-line! For now, a perfect day consists of waking up next to my

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husband, a cup of coffee, Jazzercise at least three or four times as week... and giving thanks for a new day.

In January, 2013, I was diagnosed with liver cancer cells under a large brain tumor. It was discovered when I had a CT scan and an MRI. Surgery and radiation was recommended and I began the cycle of treatment. For the first six or seven months I was not allowed to drive, so I pretty much stayed at home.

My treatment is now done.

I have had great reports since completing my treatment. I do a lot of praying before an appointment. The hardest thing for me has been getting my stamina back. I am motivated to fight because of the inspiration of my family, grandchildren, friends, and the faith I have in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Today, I focus on the silver linings of my diagnosis, including the really amazing people I met during my treatment- some of them patients, and some of them technicians. I do not take things for granted and I know my hiccup in life was for a reason. Because of this, I try to make the best of every day that is given to me. My faith has grown stronger and I know now the real power of prayer.

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FAVORITE QUOTE:

“Live, Laugh, Love & Pray.”

Faces of Cancer

If I could speak to thousands

of people about reducing the risk of cancer in their life, I would say this: “Listen to your body; go to your doctor annually for routine check-ups; eat healthy; exercise regularly; and give thanks to Jesus every day.�

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oft as a butterfly she humbly shows me the photos of her head after surgery. After they cut it open and took what did not belong there. This tiny little woman with such a big, big scar. What do you really love Renie? Of course her family. Again, over and over one story after another family has been key in making it through these journeys.

But she mentions the outdoors-love of outdoors. I think to myself: So, that is how I see you Renie, a butterfly with wings spread and hovering over all that is beautiful...making it more so.

I asked her to raise her wings to the sky. She did.

It was with gratefulness that she did this....

~ Robin Green, Photographer

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Lisa Boushay-Ownby Faces of Cancer

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y name is Lisa Boushay-Ownby. I grew up in Cashmere, Washington. As a kid, I loved long summer nights that did not get dark until 9:30pm. Sleeping outside in the backyard under the stars being the best thing to do...other than ride my bike! I grew up with a family that loved me (and still do) unconditionally.

I do not remember a particular moment that inspired me to follow my dreams, yet at a young 21 and in love, I left Washington and moved to Southern California for eighteen years.

In 1998, I was living alone in Southern California when I was diagnosed with melanoma. I went to my gynecologist for an annual exam. I had a mole on my abdomen and I was referred to a dermatologist. When she saw the mole, she said, “My eyes don’t have a microscope in them, but I can tell you...you have melanoma.”

I had no family near and with plenty of alone time, I had a lot of anxiety and depression from my chemo treatments. I remember thinking, I don’t know if I can go through that treatment again.

I couldn’t even look at my medical bills without having an anxiety attack.

My mom was so strong for me, she came down to California from Washington to help me get it all together. My two best friends came to help me also.

The hardest thing I have ever had to do was to act like everything is fine/ normal. The one thing I will NEVER say to another person who is ill or has cancer is ‘you will be

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fine.’ You don’t know what the outcome is in another person’s journey. Don’t think you do.

Although it has been fifteen years since I’ve had treatment, it seems like just yesterday and a lifetime ago, all at once. Now, if I were asked what I would say to a crowd of thousands, my words would be: USE SUNSCREEN! STAY OUT OF TANNING BEDS! STOP SMOKING! I now live in Moses Lake and I am married to Ray Ownby. I enjoy my stepson and daughter in law, grandchild, our four cats Maddie, Kaos, Walter and Gracie, and our chocolate lab, Murphy. I so appreciate the people in my life and the small things we do for each other.

My work at Studio 4 Hair Design consists of helping my clients look their best - a rewarding career to say the least. Every day is instant gratification in seeing another person feel good about their appearance. It is a great feeling, one that can change the course of one’s day. That is important to me.

“USE SUNSCREEN! STAY OUT OF TANNING BEDS! STOP SMOKING!”

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punky. I can tell. Haircut says it all. Cancer would have to give this one a real run for her moneyshe'll be all over it. You want a fight cancer? You got it. Lisa is fun. I enjoy taking her pictures.

Let's do this... Ok. Let's do that... Ok. Do the Edward Scissor Hands for me... Ok. Ride a bike against the setting sun... Ok. Fight cancer till cancer turns tail and runs... Ok. Yeah, that was Lisa.

Then we talked about her cancer. A sidenote really. She is very busy living her life. I watched the sunset over Moses Lake knowing Lisa was very busy, very spunky and happy to just be living her life.

~ Robin Green, Photographer

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All I can say, is that it is an absolute honor. When a client has to make such a difficult choice to cut off their hair to preempt the inevitable, it is humbling to be the one asked to facilitate that.

I want to say to them that it is temporary.

I want to say that it will grow back.

But all I can say is, that it is an absolute honor.

- Jenny Treutle

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ello-I am Robin-I will be taking pictures here this morning.

They seem a little nervous. Beautiful girls nervous about pictures? I seek out the one I know gives head shaves to those losing their hair. I think to myself: She is kind. I can see that. If I need to have my head shaved I will come to her to have it done. She cares. She feels. She will run the clippers as if she is laying hands on someone. Yes, she cares that much.

~ Robin Green, Photographer

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Cynthia Dano

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“For today, I try to live and love fully, be grateful for all be happy for every pain free day and not take anythin 32 Faces of Cancer

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elea: Who inspired you the most when you were young?

Cynthia: As an adult looking back, I realize that my parents were the most inspirational and influential...instilling empathy, compassion, gratitude, the importance of giving back, love of nature and the outdoors and a good work ethic.

M: What did you love to do as a child?

C: I had a great childhood! We went camping, hiking and lots of road tripping. I had a horse and was a ballet dancer.... I still love all those things.

M: Tell us about your current family?

C: I am so grateful that both my parents are still living! I also have a sister and 2 brothers, each of whom have children. I have been married to

the love of my life, Brian, for 20 years. I have two children, Alex and Shaun and Brian has three children, Michele, Adam and Elliot. They are scattered from here to California to Texas, so visiting them is fun! Alex and Adam are each married and Alex, Adam and Michele have blessed us with a total of 6 grandchildren. Being in the delivery room last year to welcome our newest grandchild was one of the most amazing experiences of my life!

M: What cancer are you battling?

C: I was diagnosed with a rare type of ovarian cancer in Dec 2014. I underwent extensive surgery followed by chemotherapy.

M: When reports come back that frighten you, where does your strength come from?

the blessings I have, ng for granted.”

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C: First and foremost from the love and support of my family and friends. I just try to take one day at a time and not “awfulize” or project too far ahead. This isn’t always easy...but taking a few deep breaths and focusing on the moment helps keep me grounded.

M: Although, never thankful for cancer, can you think of any silver linings to your diagnosis?

C: So many! Except for the pesky cancer part, getting cancer may have been one of the best things to happen...I have mended relationships, made more time for family and friends, become a better friend, taken less for granted, am more grateful, want to help others more, appreciate simple things, have become more patient and less stressed about things, realize so much really doesn’t matter and thankful I still have time to do things and be a better person. I am more at peace now than ever in my life. It has been a wake up call...I realized I only get one body and I wasn’t treating it very well. It fights for me everyday...the least I can do is take care of it and treat it with the respect it deserves and hopefully give it the tools to fight this cancer and let me have an extended future. And of course, carpe diem! Oh yeah, and the no shaving for months!

M: What promptings would you give to others about reducing the risk of cancer in their life?

C: Ovarian cancer has few symptoms and can be mistaken for common ailments. Listen to your body...if there is anything unusual and it persists for 2 weeks-SEE A DOCTOR and be PERSISTENT! That advice goes for anything, not just cancer. So many chronic diseases are lifestyle-driven so stop smoking, exercise, eat right, reduce stress- make time for selfcare and fun! Prevention is the best thing.

Taped to my wall above my desk is a quote my mother gave me long ago:

“The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. … It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company...a church....a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past...we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude...I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it…

-Charles R. Swindoll It is my reminder that, to a very large degree, I can choose and create my life, in spite of my circumstance.

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he answered the door. Same bright smile that spreads across her entire face. Same face; same beautiful face. She is without hair and I notice how soft and shiny the cap of her head is. How bright the eyes. Same Cynthia Dano.

Years ago I thought to myself how I wished I were more like her. So comfortable in her own skin, so confident in anyone's world. She moves with grace. She can laugh at herself. Unafraid. Nothing seems to have changed; but I know it has for her. No more long dark locks of hair falling down her back. Inside her body has told her it has changed.

But for me watching her, she is still Cynthia. I am thinking to myself: I wish I were more like her.

~ Robin Green, Photographer

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y name is Lacey Radel (Hoffman). I am 32 years old. I grew up in Moses Lake. A perfect day for me is being able to spend time with my family and friends. I have been married to my husband for ten years. We have a great relationship and enjoy spending time with each other.

I loved boating as a child, and I still love it today. If I were to ask an artist to paint a picture of my world, it would be abstract with wavy lines and the colors would be blues-to-greens. The blues and greens would be similar to what the ocean or lakes can look like at different times of the day or different times of the year.

My grandparents inspired me the most when I was young. They helped me learn to always be genuine. I have always been a Christian and believe God had a plan for my life before I was born. With that being said, an “aha” moment happened during my third year of fighting cancer when I finally had peace with whatever God’s plan was for me. Even if that meant I was going to die.

I remember a particular moment in my life that inspired me to follow my dreams. It was when I was in the hospital getting treatments for cancer. I would watch the nurses and ask them questions. After enduring everything I went through, I decided I wanted to become a nurse. So I did.

Today, I am a registered nurse. The favorite part about my occupation

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is being able to care for my patients the way I would want to be cared for. In addition, I love the nurse/ patient relationships that are developed. I will never forget many of the patients I have cared for.

The cancer I have battled is Hodgkin’s lymphoma. I was diagnosed in the fall of 2000 when I was at dance/ drill team practice and I couldn’t breathe. I was taken to the walk-in clinic and an x-ray revealed a tumor between my heart and lungs. From there I had to have a biopsy to confirm the cancer diagnosis.

The first year, the treatment recommended was chemotherapy and concentrated radiation to my chest. During my second year, the treatment recommended was an autologous stem cell transplant.

To do this, the doctors extracted the stem cells from my body and then, after receiving very potent chemo, the extracted stem cells were introduced back into my body. The third year the doctors could not at first find a treatment for my very aggressive form of Hodgkin’s.

However, there was a brand new protocol called a haploidendical transplant, in which they used bone marrow from someone who was a half match to my bone marrow.

Thankfully, I have not needed treatment for twelve years after the receiving of the haploidentical transplant in 2003. Today, I try to live each day to the fullest and enjoy the little things in life... like the smell after it has rained.

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e meet at her parents home on the lake. This blonde and beautiful "world by the tail" looking young lady. I ask her to tell me a little bit about herself. I am taken aback at what she has endured at such a young age. Death came knocking more than once but here she is...here we are---on the lake, in a boat. Her hair blowing, feeling the sun on her face, spending her days with an incredible caring husband watching sunsets in his arms and more importantly sunrises that promise a new day. How can someone who was so sick look so healthy I ask myself. It's a miracle. I answer myself inside my head where no one can hear my conversation: Yes Robin it is a miracle. God's love and grace, a young woman's determination...a loving family's support. It all added up into one heavenly miracle. Here she was--looking into blue sky on a summer day.

Lacey the miracle. ~ Robin Green, Photographer

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Juan

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Quintero

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e comes to the door with little ones at his side... chocolate brown eyes staring up at me and smiles on their faces. He asks if we should go to a park or somewhere nicer to Take pictures. I say no--this is your home. I like it. This is the battlefield. Let's sit in the grass and talk. His children admire his strength. His wife admires his strength. Juan appears tired to me and I think to myself: It takes so much to be strong for everyone else."

Juan is open but offers not much more than what I ask for.

He has fought long and hard. I like his warm personality. The entire family is generous with their hospitality and visiting. I am keenly aware he is head of the household, he is the center of everything for them. I find myself talking to God and saying, "they sure need him Lord...please keep him healthy".

I photograph he and his wife in an embrace...I see the looks to one another. They are soldiers having served together in this fight. Not easy.

Leaving, I glance back at a family huddled together in a small yard in Moses Lake. They are an army of one. Dedicated to their leader, their husband, their father.

~ Robin Green, Photographer

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y name is Juan Quintero. I am 34 years old. I grew up in a small town in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. As a kid, I loved freedom, going fishing, rabbit and bird hunting, and playing soccer. My childhood was full of adventure. One particular memory is about a friend who tried to be brave and remove honey from a beehive. As he approached the hive he was talking to the bees saying repeatedly, “calm down little bee.” The bees did not calm down and they attacked him. All the way home I kept laughing and telling him, “calm down little bee.” To this day, we still laugh about it.

My mom, dad and big brother inspired me the most when I was young. I observed how hard my parents worked for minimum wage to try to put food on our table. This observation inspired me to go to school. I completed my Associates in Science degree at Big Bend Community College and I am fulfilling my requirements for my Bachelor’s degree at Central.

My family continues to be my inspiration. My wife’s name is Perla. I have four beautiful kids: Jeanette, Gregorio, Cristian, and my little one, Juan Ulysses. We live in Moses Lake. My kids go to school and my wife works for the school district. I work as a maintenance mechanic at Basic American Foods. I enjoy the accomplishment of keeping high levels of production by maintaining and repairing the equipment.

I want my children to know, like my parents did, to never give up no matter the circumstances. If I could pick a song that depicts life to me, it would be, “Los Caminos de la Vida,” a Spanish song that talks about the roughness and bad situations we face in life, but that we always have to keep fighting for our family. I want to teach my children to follow their dreams, no matter what.

I was diagnosed with mixoid sarcoma cancer at the University of Washington Medical Center and a doctor from there relayed the diagnosis through a phone call on December 11, 2013. The news was shocking and scary. The hardest thing for me was to try to keep a

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straight face with my family when I was really worried. Treatment required five weeks of radiation and then, the removal of a tumor. Thanks to my wife, whom I consider to be my angel, I was able to get on track and become the fighter I needed to be.

Before being diagnosed, I knew I had an abnormal bump in my leg. I was afraid to go to the doctor because I did not want to hear the word “cancer”. I could only think of death, and my family, and my four-year-old growing up without his dad.

But, I faced my fears and went to the doctor. Today, I don’t regret my decision one bit, because thanks to the fact the cancer was detected at an early stage I now live cancer-free.

If there is one thing I learned from my situation it is that being afraid of the word “cancer” is the biggest mistake anyone can make. If diagnosed at an early stage the greater the chances of surviving and living a normal life. Being afraid only leads to the delay of diagnosis.

During my treatment I met a lot of people facing cancer and, believe me, it is heartbreaking to know and see people of all ages facing this horrible disease. Today, I do my regular checkups, and thank God that all have been good. I have also had opportunities to share my story with others. It is my hope to encourage others to not be afraid to go to the doctor if they experience anything abnormal in their bodies. It is better to have it checked right away. Don’t wait.

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Wendy Thomas

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y name is Wendy Thomas. I am 64 years old.

I was born and raised in southern Idaho. My mother was born and raised in London, England, then became a war bride and came to the U.S. with my father. The marriage lasted seventeen years and six kids, and then she left when I was ten. She was big city gal and Catholic, my dad was a small town soldier and Latter Day Saints (LDS).

Our family relocated to Othello in 1964. My dad was a mechanic for the potato plant in Burley, Idaho, and when they sold many families relocated to Othello. We moved to Moses Lake in 1965.

As a kid I loved the animals on the farm and being outdoors with my dad. When I was

younger, he was a farm hand and would take me with him. I also enjoyed fishing with dad and my grandpa in the mountains.

I loved baseball. When I was in sixth grade, at recess the boys would race to grab the bat and ball from the box I sat next to, near the wall. They wouldn’t let the girls play. When I asked the teacher what could be done, she merely said, “Well they can’t play without both the bat and the ball,” so, next recess I grabbed the bat. The boys complained and carried on to no avail.

I told them we should form teams, boy, girl etc. and play. After they tried it, they found it was more fun, and everyone was included.

I played on many softball teams, in Moses Lake and Ephrata until I was 34 years old.

Inspiration as a young girl came from my father and grandfather, as well as Winston Churchill with his “We will never surrender” speech. My father was afflicted with polio after he came home from WWII. He was told he’d never walk again but he did walk again after swim therapy at a veteran’s hospital. He was determined to walk again. With two small daughters and me on the way, he had to for family sake. He was able to keep all six of us kids together and he always worked hard and instilled values in all of us.

As an adult, what makes for a perfect day? Waking up every morning. I enjoy our ten acres, the sheep

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lambing in the spring, the horses, and my dogs and cats. They make wonderful company; they are loyal and give unconditionally, and don’t talk back. I have always counted my blessings, but everyday is a miracle, and I wish people would realize that more.

The most incredible accomplishment in my life was giving birth to my two sons, Tod and Ty Stowers.

Watching them grow and seeing them become young successful men is beyond a blessing to me. Tod is married to Lacey Stowers and they gave me two wonderful grandchildren, Abby and Gage.

I am a customer service representative with Northwest Farm Credit Services (NWFCS), going on my 29th year. Throughout the years I have held various positions for the company. My favorite part of my job is working with our customers, farmers, employees, and numbers. Northwest Farm Credit is a wonderful company to work for and the employees make it special as well.

They are a great support group, it’s like a NWFCS family.

I was diagnosed with breast cancer on Presidents Day, 2014. There was a wellness checkup through work that revealed a suspicious mammogram, after which there was a biopsy and removal of tumor half the size of a pea and a primary lymph node. I had a mole that had been bothering me more than anything and I was concerned it may be a problem. It was not. I was self checking, but it had been 13 years since I had a mammogram. I was afraid of the radiation causing cancer, yet, ironically radiation is what cured my type. Early detection is key.

The treatment recommended was targeted radiation for a month. I faced it head-on, and was determined there was nothing that was going to happen to me that the Lord and I couldn’t face together. Last April, I rode the Health Express bus to Wenatchee every day and would come back and work a couple of hours to stay in the loop and stay focused. I will take an estrogen blocker until I am 70. They said chemotherapy would do more harm than good in my case. They gave me an 80-plus percent chance the treatment would cure my cancer. If not, it will return in my lungs or bones.

I feel very lucky it was caught so early. I had no family history of cancer except for a cousin on my mother’s side of the family who battled breast cancer and survived. I was shocked when they diagnosed me.

I’m currently on six month checkups. So far, the reports have been clean. Wish me luck.

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If you could speak to thousands of people about reducing the risk of cancer in their life, what would you say?

“Get checked as recommended by the Cancer Society. I wish people would realize when they say they don’t have time to get checked, that they may not have much time to live if they don’t take the time now. You don’t know what you don’t know. Stay active, reduce stress, and forgive. It frees the soul.”

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am struck with how life goes on. It must feel strange---maybe like a carousel. You are up and down and all around, circling--- and the world just quietly goes on around you day in and day out. I am told Wendy is somewhat private about this. I relate. She is taking me to the Japanese Gardens in Moses Lake to photograph. This is where she goes alone to meditate. I see she is private and goes there to be private with her thoughts. We don’t talk a lot. I take photos. I have a very brief time slot to try and understand her, know her. But I see it. I understand.

~ Robin Green, Photographer

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lways look for the rainbows in Life. I have asked folks, have your ever seen a rainbow? I was surprised at how many don’t take the time to just look up and enjoy the storm, there usually is a rainbow at the end… you have to look for it.

~ Wendy

Jay Ballinger 48 Faces of Cancer

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Unleash

50 Faces of Cancer

Your Unique Purpose Steve Gutzler visits with Jay Ballinger

Steve Gutzler is one of the nation’s premier thought leaders and sought after speakers on leadership, intelligence and personal transformation. Steve’s clients include many fortune 500 firms and was ranked #1 social media and inspirational leader in 2013 by Huffington Post.

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recently sat in an Irish Pub off of Pier 70 on the waterfront in Seattle. I was meeting with a treasured client for a coaching session and lunch. It was a brilliant sunny day. I knew Jay, who is a magnificent leader, had experienced a life altering cancer episode years prior. I asked if he would relay his story to me.

When he was diagnosed with a massive cancerous tumor inside his chest, the doctor told him it was so aggressive treatment wasn't even a viable option. "You have 90 days or so to live Jay." Jay was determined to make it through Christmas, his daughters graduation, and his

anniversary. He insisted on chemo. In those days he also discovered a deep and abiding purpose.

As we sat eating our Rueben sandwiches in that waterfront pub, tears streamed down his face.

"I learned my greatest purpose was to live while dying." He told me that he still feels that greater purpose as strong today as in those struggling days of cancer treatment, "Each day is a gift Steve."

Good news, Jay is now healthy. He beat the odds. He's years removed from those frightful days.

I can say with bold assurance I've met few men or women are so strongly connected to their mission, living their purpose daily. He knows his purpose and his influence is quite remarkable. He lives his values and his vitality shines daily. His family, his clients, and his large business team speak highly of Jay's unique purpose. Thank you Jay for inspiring greatness in others.

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i I'm Jay. He extends his hand. Strong. A big guy. I sense he may be reserved. Big strong guys sometimes don't want to show their vulnerability, right? Wrong. He speaks openly, matter of factly. His eyes face toward the light of the window where we are seated. They water.

His voice falters a time or two. I am hearing his account of meeting a monster head on, and what that monster threatens to take away. His wife, his family face the monster as well. My guess is this big strong guy is tested to his core---the core he may never have known existed until the day he was given a diagnosis and little hope of survival. I am feeling fortunate to hear this story because I read the end of the book first. I know this ends well, but I get to hear about the battle, and the will to survive.

My take on this: having a loving family and a reason to be there for them helped a lot in fighting cancer. While there are those that have that and may not survive it, it is almost imperative to have a reason to fight. He did. He does.

I drive away thinking: These people are unreal.

~ Robin Green, Photographer

Q. What did you do as a child that you still love to do as an adult?

A. Read, solve, think.

Q. What treatment was recommended?

A. Initially, no therapy recommended – hospice.

Then, chemotherapy and radiation.

Q. As an adult, what makes for a perfect day?

A. Solitude, silence.

Q. Where are you at in the treatment cycle?

A. Done – cancer free now.

Q. Tell us about your family now?

A. Married 32 years; son 27 and daughter 25

Q. In your battle, where does your strength come from?

A. Not a matter of strength but of honest confrontation of the truth.

Q. Occupation?

A. Corporate and sales management Q. What would you like others to know about you?

A. That I care and I try to take note.

Q. What is one thing on your bucket list?

A. To live for a year in four different cities: Paris, Florence, London, and Key West.

Q. What cancer have you battled with?

A. On August 21, 2007, I was (accidentally) diagnosed with non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.

Q. Who inspired you the most to fight?

A. My children; Steve McFarland Q. What is your favorite quote you draw strength from?

A. Seven Disciplines/Twelve mulling addendum.

Q. What has changed the most since you dealt with your cancer?

A. My understanding of my connection to others.

Q. What is the most helpful thing a friend has ever done for you?

A. Show up. Sit quietly.

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Penne Ferris

If I could speak to thousands about reducing the risk of cancer in their life, I would say: “Pay attention to your environment, your stress level and how you treat your body. Have a positive attitude of gratitude and a sense of humor. “

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enne bounds out of her front door. We are not where we will shoot her photos. I know nothing about Penne except she is part of this Faces of Cancer. She is a cancer victim... bounding out of her front door. We go to a park. We talk. I ask about her interests. I do not raise my camera until I know something about her. She eyes my equipment; she loves photography. She loves to travel back roads. Now I know something about Penne. I ask her to return to her house for her camera and her maps. Yes, now I know. Now I point my camera and I shoot. Faces of Cancer's Penne travels those back roads. She wants to see it all. She wants to capture it.

I note to myself: Penne is gutsy.

~ Robin Green, Photographer

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y name is Penne Ferris. I grew up in Washington, primarily in Ephrata, where I now live with my two dogs and one cat.

Every chance I get, I am one with my camera.

Photography is the hobby I love the most. Next in line would be my interest in NASCAR and football.

If I were to describe the perfect vacation destination, I would use two words: the WORLD. If I were to name the one thing I would love to do, it would be learning to sail.

In September of 2011, I had an MRI done on my back. I had lifted some things I shouldn’t have while helping a friend move. The MRI showed a large cyst on my pancreas. Pancreatic cancer was diagnosed after surgery when the results of the biopsy were revealed.

I like procrastination. I joke about being a procrastinator. But if it’s a serious enough situation, I’m on top of it. A treatment cycle began; six months of chemotherapy, then another optional five and a half weeks of chemo plus radiation. I finished the cycle in September of 2012.

One of the hardest things I had to do was ask for help. I am stubborn. But it is now something I will do if it is needed. After what I have gone through, I more fully understand my limitations.

When I was deciding whether to go through the optional five and a half weeks of chemo, it meant moving to Seattle for about two months. I had to have a caregiver with me – doctor’s orders. The wife of one of my best friends, who is a stay-athome mom, volunteered to go with me. I really had no one else to do this, so I was grateful. It

worked out perfectly. I also had help from the same friend’s daughter and boyfriend. They stayed at my house, helped take care of my animals and did day-to-day things so I didn’t have to if I wasn’t up to it. I couldn’t have done it without them.

With a survival rate of just six percent for pancreatic cancer, I want to give others hope.

I’m probably something of an anomaly, in that when the doctor told me the biopsy came back positive for cancer, I didn’t have much of a reaction. I just absorbed the information given. He explained that they had one of the best oncologists for pancreatic cancer in the world at this facility and he’d arrange an appointment.

I have to add that it was great news to hear they had gotten all of the cancer during surgery. In my mind at that point I was cancer-free. I just asked what was next, trusted my care team and forged ahead. At no point did I ever think I wouldn’t survive. This was just a minor set-back in life and when it was over things would be back to normal. For me, it worked out.

Jim Thorn M

y name is Jim Thorn. I am fifty-five years old and live in Moses Lake, Washington. I grew up there with the freedom to play, be active, and be outside. I remember having lots of energy and being pretty independent and self motivated as a kid. My parents inspired me to follow my dreams. I will always remember a particular moment when I was about five or six years old flying with my Granddaddy in his airplane - that moment inspired me to follow my dreams. After that moment, I would ride my bicycle out to the little airport and look at the airplanes. As an adult, I still love to fly.

As a teenager I pulled strength from a small sign I observed as I entered the wrestling practice room in Junior High. It said, “Extend Yourself.” I have followed and used those two words, daily. I do not strive to have a perfect day, just a day full of love, passion and to be with those I care about.

I married my soulmate, Mary. She had two daughters (teens), and we adopted a third daughter. We have three grandchildren. To be Mary’s husband and to know my kids and grandkids love me and I love them, is the most incredible accomplishment in my life.

I am a Registered Nurse, Vol. Captain/ EMT – Grant County Fire District #5 – 23 years – Volunteer. Douglas County Fire District #2 – 5 years – Resident. My favorite part about my occupation is helping patients during their time of great need, helping the staff to be their best and providing support for them.

I believe I have an ability to understand others’ feelings and their emotional situation.

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t is a hot day. We all sit in the shade of their yard, trees towering above us, offering relief. I am happy to sit. Jim begins to talk about his ordeal, his battle with the cancer-THEIR battle with the cancer. He speaks with complete frankness to which I feel immediate ease. I sense there are no rules to follow in our conversation, I feel less likely to say the wrong thing. I feel his lattitude of forgiveness for my ignorance will make this photo-shoot a piece of cake, because he is being open and honest and holds nothing against me for what I may not understand. I loved that. I am reminded of how short life is, what really matters, and the journeys each of us will make. All of us will be gone one day. The sun sets, and I once again take a lesson home with me that I won’t forget. ~ Robin Green, Photographer

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am battling seminoma, a testicular cancer. On February 13, 2015, on a Friday, I received a report back after a biopsy from the U of W Pathology Department. The treatment recommended was surgery to remove half of my pancreas and my spleen and chemotherapy.

I underwent the surgery and I have recently completed the chemotherapy.

I am not one to avoid or deny issues. With my medical training and fire service training, I tend to face things head-on. Amazing strength comes from my wife and family. They are my “ROCK.” At times, yes, I need to muddle it through my head. Time to regenerate. Time alone. Even though I am one to see the problem, think about it and do what I can to make it better or accept the reality of it, I can also simply fall apart. It doesn’t last very long. My family is always there to be in the moment with me. They help me move on. They inspire me to fight. I also know I can’t give up until God calls me home.

My perspective on life has changed. Some things I already had a good perspective on, having cancer just made it more clear. Those of us with cancer still experience daily life, we just experience it differently – more obstacles to deal with. Through my personal journey I have had lots of ups and downs, emotional roller-coasters, pain, exhaustion, and days when I would

just want to go away. I learned how supportive people can be and the love that they give. I want to give back.

I want to help others with their journey. I want to help others try to avoid cancer or catch it early. I do not want to judge, only to love others and love God and the life He has given me.

Friends are a blessing. Simply checking in occasionally and being supportive is wonderful. Just knowing they care is comforting. One of the greatest moments I have experienced was when the whole fire department at GCFD#5, shaved their heads in support of me. It gave me such inspiration to fight on. I will fight to the end.

If I could speak to thousands... about reducing the risk of cancer in their life, I would tell them: “do self exams...anything that feels abnormal - see your doctor. Have regular checkups. Eat right, exercise, and don’t smoke.”

Brett Moser

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y name is Brett Moser. As a kid, I enjoyed the feeling of being free and having no responsibilities. I grew up in Moses Lake and my father was the most inspirational influence in my young years.

As a kid my life was full with countless hours of playing sports in the front yard with my neighbors. My childhood dreams of playing sports continued through high school with baseball and football being my wheelhouse, which earned me All-State honors in both sports.

On my dad’s birthday on May 27, 2015, when I was nineteen, my carefree life as I knew it changed. A tumor was found in my stomach and testicular cancer was diagnosed.

Facing rounds of chemotherapy, it was a time I hoped my family and friends would be supportive and understanding - they were and still are. I am very thankful to have such

great friends, family and community to draw strength from.

Some of the simple things can be the hardest...like losing my hair...and losing the amount of time I was used to spending outdoors...and not playing football...and feeling like people look at me differently now.

Having cancer makes others forget that I also experience daily life. If I had my way, I would want my friends to treat me the very same as before my diagnosis. Because I am the same.

When I have the time, what I enjoy the most is going camping, hunting and fishing with family. (Skydiving is in my future.)

Spending valuable time with my girlfriend, Baylee, is always a priority. She has inspired me to fight this cancer from day one. I am grateful for her steadfastness. I look forward to the day she and I can lie on a beach in Hawaii and be glad the battle is over.

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h goodness you are young I think to myself.

Handsome boy---charm written all over him. Gracious and courteous and warm. Let's shoot these pictures on the football field where you ran hard and fast and far. This football field that you love so.

“How are you doing,” I ask.

“Good. I just finished my last chemo today!”

Smile breaks out and eats up his face with happiness.

Surgery still ahead, but he had his team with him for photos... the team you need when you are 19 and faced with this. I knew without question he has the heart of a champion, losing is not an option.

His athleticism making him a physical specimen to be reckoned with.

I was taking pictures of a winner, and he somehow passed that along, almost as if I were playing receiver now, something to hold onto and run with.

Thank you for that Brett. ~ Robin Green, Photographer

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“I look for the day Baylee and I can lie on a beach in Hawaii and be glad the battle is over.�

Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation

What do they do, actually, to help our friends and family members who are fighting cancer?

We want to help you with the road ahead office hours are Monday-Thursday 10am-2pm Educational Materials Our office features many free pamphlets from numerous ​please call our office today to see how creditable cancer organizations including the National we can help 509-764-4644 Cancer Institute, American Cancer Society, Susan B. Komen and Breast Friends. We also have many we are located at books that are available for check out that 1031 W. Broadway Ave, Moses Lake Gas Vouchers

If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with cancer there is a good chance that you will have to travel out of town for your treatments. One of our goals is to make it easier for cancer patients to get to treatment, thus providing some financial support through treatment.

Wigs & Head Coverings

Our office features a wide variety of donated wigs, hats, scarves, bandanas, and more for our current cancer patients. We have caring volunteers that are available to help you pick out that perfect wig or hat.

cover a wide range of cancer topics as well as inspirational stories of courage and determination.

Dietary & Health There are many side effects that come as a result of cancer treatment that may

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require specific supplements. We offer assistance in any nutritional expense that is inquired while going through treatment. We have a cancer Nutritionist from Confluence Health come and speak to clients about diet through treatment. We do our best to keep up to date nutritional reading material available to cancer patients.

Free Bus for Cancer Patients

At times we know our patients will travel to Confluence Health in Wenatchee for radiation therapy 5 days a week for an average of 6 consecutive weeks. The Columbia Basin

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Cancer Foundation supports the PEOPLE FOR PEOPLE Health Express Shuttle that takes patients from the Confluence Health in Moses Lake to their appointments in Wenatchee.

Monthly Support group

Support group is open to patients and caregivers. Every 3rd Monday of the Month 5:30pm Moses Lake Senior Center 608 E 3rd Ave. Moses Lake

Family photos

Shannon Michelle Photography donates her time to capture beautiful images for cancer patients and their families.

Outdoor Clean up Day

In the Spring and Fall the local 4-H chapters volunteer their time for our clients helping with outdoor projects.

Lending Library

Along with our educational materials our office also features a wide variety of books just for fun.

Angel Kneedler, Executive Director

columbiabasincancerfoundation.org / facebook.com/cbcfoundation info@columbiabasincancerfoundation.org

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er name fits her. We put her in the midst of color streamers blowing in the Basin wind. Each color representing the public awareness of a specific type of cancer. She peeks out from them wondering what she can do to help? How she can be a strong support to ones who need it? Wondering what she is supposed to do? Just be you Angel. That's all you need be. Angel---so much for so many. I am wondering to myself where she tucks away all of this "cancer stuff " without trying to find a better word for it. Where does she put the grief and sadness? I then realize it is not all grief and sadness. There is hope, and love and lessons. She has a lot of room in her heart for all those things. She is an angel.

~Robin Green, Photographer

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Angel Kneedler

Executive Director, Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation Q. What made you decide to take the position you hold with CBCF? I believe the position here at CBCF really found me.

I was fortunate enough to stay at home with my little one for his first year. I was thinking of getting a part time job when CBCF was looking for an Executive Director. The position was a perfect fit.

Q. What do you do to keep yourself positive for your next day of helping?

Staying positive can sometimes be a challenge, but I know that what I am doing is so important and appreciated by our clients. I believe my personality helps a lot as I am a “glass half full” sort of gal.

Q. Where does your strength come from?

Our clients motivate me every day to do the things I need to do for them. I am so fortunate to be able to meet so many people and families, to hear their journeys and be reminded every single day what is important in this life.

Q. What is the most rewarding part of your job?

It is so awesome to see how our community gives and volunteers for their struggling neighbors, friends, co-workers, etc., with cancer. To be able to transfer that gift to our clients is so rewarding and it lets them know that their community cares about them! They are not

ALONE in this journey. I am also fortunate to be able to work alongside of Mrs Jean Copley whose patience and tenderness inspire me.

Q. What is the most difficult part of your job?

All of it is hard; every single bit of this work is difficult. We see our clients go in and out of remission, some several times. We see their ups and their downs emotionally and wish we could take that pain away. It is hard to see them fighting so hard, yet getting so weak from treatments. It is hard when you know some clients do not have any family/friend support and no one to lean on in this difficult time.

We always want to do more, help more, be more for them.

Q. How can the community be more helpful?

We have a fantastic community and I want to thank them for their support. It is truly because of our community that we are able to do what we do here at CBCF. So I ask our community to continue to support us so that we may continue our good work. Spread the word, we are here to help.

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here is the perfect person working here that will greet you. Her face is so soft and kind-quiet and full of patient attention. Her voice whispers, not intrusive, gentle like a breeze. She doesn't think she will make a good picture of course. How wrong she is.

People like her shine...and she brings a settling sense of comfort to anyone walking through the door.

~Robin Green, Photographer

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Jean Copley Patient Services Coordinator Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation “

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ou never know what your day is going to be like,” shares Jean Copley. With soft-spoken kindness, Jean greets a new patient who comes through the doors hoping for help. He or she has cancer. Jean knows full-well the fear and worry that came in with them. Being careful to not be too intrusive, she asks questions to assess what their needs are so the Foundation can best help. From that moment, a connection is made and the patient is not alone in facing the challenge ahead.

The desire to help others with this journey is not new to Jean. When she was eight years old, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. “Back in that day, it was not talked about. There were no support groups. The family knew she was sick, but we did not know how to help her. She lived with it for thirteen years. So did we.

I was too young to comprehend the battle my mother fought,” shares Jean. “My sister, also, waged

against melanoma, twice. With this in my family, I grew a passion for helping cancer patients be as supported and comfortable and lifted up, as possible.

We are here to help. We listen. Everyone has a different story. Some without a happy ending. We wish we had the magic wand to make them better. We can't do that, but we can help them where they are at in their journey,” says Jean.

When Jean goes home at the end of a day, she is greeted by her husband, two dogs and a cat. “I enjoy my unplug time,” states Jean, and rightfully so. It is difficult what she does in a days work. It takes a very caring person. Jean is that.

“Actually, I am inspired by the patients... every day.

The courage I see in people is amazing. Sometimes, the next time I see someone, they are getting on with their treatments and are at a point when they are OK. After I get to know them, they come in and ask me how I am doing? It touches my heart,” smiles Jean.

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“ “

W

e used to keep track of the quilts,” said Mel Neal. When asked how many, he said, “We have a label on them and a number, but we up and quit after we reached over 800.”

Why so many? Mel and Maxine Neal were asked by a community member seven or eight years ago if they would be willing to craft quilts for cancer patients in our town. Mel had a history of quilting, having owned a quilt shop in Grand Coulee, where he grew up. At a younger age, he was doing upholstery work and had some fabric...so, he started quilting and has never stopped.

The couple grew up together in the town of Grand Coulee. “I graduated in 1956. She was my date that night. I then left to the Coast and she went to Bremerton.” Twelve years ago, Maxine traveled to Grand Coulee to “see what the old bird looked like”, and they met again.

His new bride, Maxine, had never quilted before, but learned quickly how much the idea of creating comfort for people who needed it enriched her life.

The quilts are donated to the Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation. They are then matched with a cancer patient. “They get one when they are going in for chemo,” shares Maxine. “We make them with pockets...for cell phones. We try to zero in on what people like and tie it into the design.”

Each quilt starts in Mel’s crafting room in their home. He has six-inch blocks in strips.... sews them together to make a half and then makes the other half.

Once that is done, Max comes along and takes them to her craft room and sews the two together, puts the pockets on, binding on, etc. “Once it hits her room, it is up to her how it turns out,” quips Mel with a smile.

“She is very artistic.”

Mel Maxine and

Two of a One of a Kind

Over 800 quilts hand-crafted with

The sewing machines they use are from 1958: slant needle Singer machines. “The needle comes on an angle,” states Mel, “goes through the fabric easier.” He has one. She has one. And a spare in the closet. Along with spare motors. “Quilters don’t use these anymore.

And they have more problems,” explains Mel. “If we

love

break a needle, it doesn’t hurt the machine.”

The home they share is delightful. Full of art. Mostly their own craftsmanship.

Wooden birdhouses, handmade rugs, paintings and of course, rows of brightly colored fabrics adorn their environment.

Supplies everywhere. Everything is cut by a rotary cutter. Most of the fabric is donated or found by Mel and Max at reasonable prices at yard sales, etc.

How many do they craft in one month? To them it doesn’t matter. “We do the housework and get it out of the way, then get busy on a quilt,” says Maxine. “We like knowing we are doing something for somebody.

Keep ‘em warm,” she says.

72 Faces of Cancer

Peas in a pod.

Salt and pepper.

Marriage seeing itself to a ripe old age. That is what I saw. Big hearts, loving hearts. They had found a way to do for and give to others with their quilt making.

My head is swimming---I am thinking to myself: Is there any thing more perfect than having so much love in you it spills over in to your community? Max & Mel in their old age are setting an example. I don't know if they truly realize it. They are too busy sewing and talking and living.

Marriage, partnership, love. ~ Robin Green, Photographer

Faces of Cancer

Mel and Maxine love to receive donations of supplies for their quilts, especially leftover material, old blue jeans, (especially jeans of other colors), sewing notions, etc. If you happen to have any you would like to donate, please bring it to the Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation and they will make sure Max & Mel get it. Thank you.

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74 Faces of Cancer

Hope, but never expect.

Look forward, but never wait.

the Sugar Cube by appointment only 509.771.1596 www.thesugarcube.me

Faces of Cancer

“Let's keep

fighting cancer until it is cured.”

Sincerely, Don and Janae Eng

Eng Insurance & Financial Services 1520 South Pioneer Way, Suite B Moses Lake, WA 98837 eng-financial.com / 509-766-7969

Chris Arnberg Agency 821 E Broadway Ave Suite 18 Moses Lake, WA 98837 (509) 764-5144 carnberg@amfam.com

Chris Arnberg Agency 821 E Broadway Ave Ste 18 Moses Lake, WA 98837 (509) 764-5144 carnberg@amfam.com

“My mother, Connie Henjum passed away from ovarian cancer in 1976.”

-Janae

“My father, Daryl Henjum is a survivor of neck cancer 2001 and Prostate cancer in 2006” -Janae

75

76 Faces of Cancer

W

hen you are sick, you know it because your attention shows up, somewhere on or in your body. But, there is nothing fair about cancer. There are not always symptoms. Because of this, it is very important to be checked regularly by your doctor. Early detection is key.

Faces of Cancer

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78 Faces of Cancer

“Every great story on the plan decided not to give up, but

Faces of Cancer

79

net happened when someone kept going no matter what.� ~Spryte Loriano

WORLD-CLASS CANCER CARE IN YOUR

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It’s world-class cancer care, close to home.

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