Expanding Access to Cancer Care

One Sunday morning in January 2006, Pat June awoke to discover a lump in her right breast.

That lump was one of three that was found in the coming weeks. In April, Pat was diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer.

After successfully completing chemotherapy, Pat began radiation therapy at Washington Adventist Hospital. Pat’s therapy consisted of 33 daily treatments over the course of 6 weeks. In the span of her visits, the Radiation Oncology staff became her second family. And, Sharon Petronio, Washington Adventist Hospital’s Cancer Care Navigator, became her advocate, source of information, and friend.

Since coming to the hospital, Sharon has been someone that Pat has been able to turn to for support. “Sharon is always open to do anything she can for me," says Pat.

Sharon keeps Pat apprised of support groups, activities at the hospital, and is available even if it’s just to chat. "Seeing doctors and nurses reminded me of why I was at the hospital, it’s nice to have someone to talk to about things on a more personal and social level," Pat shares.

Today, Pat continues her journey to recovery and Sharon is there with her each step of the way. Pat points out, "Coming to Washington Adventist Hospital was a turning point for me. The staff at Washington Adventist Hospital is compassionate — this is the place I like to come and be a part of."