• Home
• Our Story
• Program
• Events
• Organizations

Joanne Gomez

The day I found out I had cancer I felt my life spiral out of control. I thought my life couldn’t get much worse, but unfortunately I found out it could. I was recently separated going through a divorce and raising two young daughters on my own. My immediate thoughts were for my girls. What was going to happen to them if I wasn’t around? It was a difficult task trying to shield them from what I was feeling and telling the rest of the family I had breast cancer. Children are smart and they knew something was wrong.

I had the fortunate opportunity for a second opinion from City of Hope after having my first procedure elsewhere. From the moment the doctor entered the room and really listened to me, talked to me, and made me feel that I was important that was when I knew I was in the right place; this was where I wanted to continue my treatments. After the consultation I told the doctor I was ready to start the rest of my life. My spirits were uplifted after that meeting.

My inpatient experience was flawless – my doctors and other staffing were fabulous and subsequent outpatient treatments were likewise done with the highest excellence. I remember so clearly the first day I came for outpatient treatment. When I drove into the parking area I felt this feeling of serenity. I was nervous about starting my radiation treatments, but yet I was calm. As I walked to the front entrance I looked up at the statue of the parents holding up their child and instantly I felt that I was that child and City of Hope was the parent holding me up. This symbolism gave me strength. I walked in with a smile on my face and a positive attitude.

What I learned from this life altering experience was that I had become a stronger person with more compassion for others. Having a positive outlook made my experience easier and put other people at ease. Ultimately, I went back to school and became a Radiation Therapist and I hope I was able to reach others by sharing my own experience.

I have a goal to share this one important message to women: Early Detection and Early Treatment can save your life. Breast cancer does not mean the end it is just a different chapter in your life. Keep positive. I am a 23 year survivor.