Meet Myra,

A remarkable young woman who, at just twenty years old, was faced with a diagnosis of Stage II ovarian cancer. The news was a shock, leaving her to grapple with the harsh reality, “I wasn’t expecting this so early at age twenty.” Fortunately, Myra was surrounded by an incredible support system, particularly her mother, Alicia. “From the moment I was diagnosed, my mother never left my side,” Myra recalls. 

When Myra was referred to Cancer Support Community Central Ohio, both she and Alicia were immediately drawn to the range of no-cost programming offered. From her very first Newcomer Welcome session, Myra felt understood and accepted—not just as someone faced with a cancer diagnosis, but as a person. At this first meeting she shared her experience and “couldn’t get a sentence out without bawling.”  

Another participant, Rob, who was there gave her some soothing advice, “Hey, I was angry when I found out too. It’s kind of like the first emotion you feel is just anger, but it gets better.” Myra related to that initial anger, but she soon found hope and comfort in her support system. “The Community is so positive, and they can bring even a little bit of light into a dark moment – and on the first day!” This welcoming environment encouraged her to express her emotions authentically and find solace in community. 

Together, Myra and Alicia explored various activities such as Qigong and Yoga Nidra, with Myra particularly enjoying the healthy cooking classes. Her love for food was reignited as she learned about nutrition and even enjoyed fish for the first time—though it may not become a staple in her diet! For Alicia, the shared wellness hikes were a cherished experience. Each focused on themes like healthy eating and celebration, “These walks allowed Myra to reclaim some joy that she thought she’d lost forever.” 

Initially, Myra believed she could handle her diagnosis without therapy. However, her dad's insistence led her to attend her six no cost counseling sessions with Cancer Support Community. This opportunity allowed her to open up at her own pace, and she found it incredibly beneficial. “The fact that their programming is offered at no cost means you can embrace everything without worrying about any additional stress,” Myra explained. 

Alicia also emphasized the importance of the caregiver support group. In fact, data shows that caregivers can face more stress during treatment than the person going through treatment. “I was so happy to learn there is a caregiver support group,” she noted. “If your child is sick all you want to do is take it away and deal with it and as a caregiver you feel the weight of the situation, but you don’t want to burden your loved one – you want them to focus on getting better.” Myra had not fully understood the weight her diagnosis placed on her mom. “Mom juggled everything—home, work, hospital visits—but she was always there for me,” Myra said, reflecting on how her mother never left her side.

Thanks to Cancer Support Community, Myra found comfort, community, and moments of joy during some of her darkest moments. Her fellow participants celebrated her victories and supported her on tough days. “You are not alone at Cancer Support Community.”  She encourages others to “take the help and be kind to yourself. Healing takes time, and that is nothing to be ashamed of.” 

Myra's journey has led her to remission, where she recently celebrated her 21st birthday with a rare steak and a sash declaring, “Myra 21, Cancer 0!” For both her and her mother, Cancer Support Community was a beacon of light and a source of comfort in a challenging time, starting from day one. 

As we approach the end of the year, we invite you to join us in strengthening this vital support system. Your generous donations empower individuals like Myra and families like Alicia’s to access the free programs and services that profoundly impact their lives. Together, we can illuminate the path to hope and community, ensuring that no one faces their challenges alone. Thank you for being a beacon of support for those in need! 

We can keep our programs free for participants because of generous supporters and donors. If you like to donate to Cancer Support Community Central Ohio, please CLICK HERE. Every dollar helps!