September 26, 2024
September 26, 2024
September 19, 2024
October 12, 2023
January 3, 2022
I never imagined how cancer would change my life and the lives of those I love. I was diagnosed with stage 4 renal carcinoma, which had already spread from my kidneys to my bones. There is no cure for my cancer. Despite multiple surgeries, including having a kidney removed and two spine operations, multiple rounds of radiation and chemotherapy, I still live with my cancer. Since my diagnosis, I’ve driven close to 4,000 miles across north and central Minnesota for treatment. I’m in my mid-60s and need a walker to get around. My cancer diagnosis has brought so many hardships for me and my family, but one thing that has brought us hope through this difficult journey is my care team at Riverwood Healthcare Center. When I was first diagnosed, I felt alone, but once I started receiving care at Riverwood, they have coordinated the care I need. My partner, Sheri Meier, will tell you, “They are our angels. They’ve been a blessing to us going through this.” From my oncologist Dr. Aby Phillip, MD, to nurse practitioner Jan Hegman — who helps coordinate my treatment — to each of the nurses, I feel like everyone prioritizes me and my care. Over the last three years, I’ve received monthly infusions of a cancer-fighting drug in the Riverwood Infusion Department. Riverwood team makes getting this treatment a breeze. The infusion department has five private patient bays with nice natural light. They always offer to bring me lunch, and there is space for Sheri or another loved one to sit with me. Along with cancer patients like me, the infusion department treats infections, autoimmune diseases and a variety of other conditions Needless to say, I know the infusion department very well, and every member of the staff has become like family. Thanks to care at Riverwood, my cancer is under control. While it isn’t a cure, it means I have more time with Sheri, my love for more than 20 years, our children and grandchildren. I’m grateful for every moment I have with them.