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Community Members on the Importance and Impact of Mission Hope Cancer Center Arroyo Grande
Meghan WellsOn April 1, 2020, Day of Hope Ambassador, Meghan Wells, was diagnosed with breast cancer. At the time, she went from treating people as an ER Nurse at Marian Regional Medical Center to receiving treatment at Mission Hope Cancer Center in Arroyo Grande. Because Meghan was diagnosed at a young age, the question of whether she’d be able to have children was always in the back of her mind. Mission Hope was able to explain possible treatments and their effects on fertility, and gave Meghan and her husband options, so that having a family might still be possible. The excellent care she received as a patient inspired her professionally, and she now works as an Infusion Nurse at Mission Hope Arroyo Grande. This April – nearly four years to the date of her diagnosis – Meghan gave birth to a healthy baby girl, Lana!
Ellen BeckAs a local cancer survivor, Ellen Beck knows firsthand the importance of the programs and services offered to patients at Mission Hope Cancer Center, Arroyo Grande. She has been an enthusiastic participant in the Cancer Rehabilitation Program and has reaped the benefits of regaining her strength after the diminishing side effects
of treatment.
The Cancer Rehabilitation Program provides a comfortable, safe place for patients to regain strength under the guidance of a certified trainer. Ellen said, “It is incredibly worthwhile for cancer patients to have the option to attend a personalized program taught by an individual knowledgeable about the side-effects experienced from the disease and its treatment. This program helps people to regain their strength and confidence. [Trainer] John is incredibly patient and knowledgeable. He always has tips for stretching and exercising correctly.”
Trista HansenWhen longtime Arroyo Grande resident, Trista Hansen, discovered a lump in her breast, a good friend encouraged her to have it checked. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in early 2020. At every doctor’s appointment, the lump doubled in size. Her trusted physician referred her to a breast surgeon for a lumpectomy, and then she underwent chemotherapy. With every doctor and caregiver, Trista has been in good and caring hands.
Trista feels fortunate to receive care close to home at Mission Hope Cancer Center, Arroyo Grande, which opened shortly before her diagnosis. “I was so happy to hear about Mission Hope – Arroyo Grande. I live right down the street! I can almost see my house from the treatment center.”
Trista’s experience was exceptional throughout her care. She said, “The care team is excellent. They were all so comforting and they helped me get through it, even when I was having a bad day. They really made me feel like family.” She appreciated the convenience of Mission Hope Cancer Center Arroyo Grande’s onsite specialists. “The nurses always made me feel comfortable with big smiles, warm blankets and snacks. The pharmacist came out every time I was treatments to ask me how I’m doing, how my medication is, and what, if anything, we can change. They’re all so bright, warm and helpful.”
