By Annette Pinder
Cheryl Merrill-Sorci was 50 years old when she discovered a lump in her breast and made an appointment for a mammogram. Upon being told it was nothing, she insisted on scheduling a biopsy. Six months later, she received a biopsy, and a phone call advising her that she had breast cancer.
“Getting that call was frightening. I let out a scream which caused my younger son to come running from upstairs,” said Cheryl. “My surgery was followed by eight rounds of chemo, and 33 rounds of radiation at the beginning of the Covid pandemic, which was especially difficult.” But it was the help she received from Theresa Skowronski, RN, a patient navigator for breast and gynecologic cancers at Great Lakes Cancer Care Collaborative (GLCCC), that got her through.
“Being diagnosed with cancer was overwhelming, but Theresa was incredible from day 1, helping me set up appointments, talking to my husband and I about the biopsy results, ensuring I had a good support system, providing me with literature, different treatment options, and more. She even sat with me during my first chemo appointment, held my hand, and taught me breathing techniques. She gave me a beautiful aromatherapy bracelet of wooden beads, and I still use it when I feel stressed.”
AnnMarie Lagreta who was diagnosed with breast cancer this year at age 55, and recounts the same positive experience in having Theresa’s support. “I never expected this to happen. Suddenly, so much is thrown at you at once. My GLCCC doctors were great, and having Theresa there to help me navigate the endless stream of appointments was invaluable. She was so caring and compassionate, and even provided me with her cell phone number. She connected me with so many wonderful resources, including Pink Ribbon Good, which provided me with free healthy prepared meals, a small lightweight vacuum cleaner, and plant-based cleaning products.
“Patients who receive a cancer diagnosis are shocked, worried, and overwhelmed. It is so hard for them to process everything all at once. I am there for them throughout the process, often at their first appointment with their medical oncologist. I help break down any barriers they encounter in getting the care they need in a timely manner. I let them know about the help they can receive through Breast Cancer Network of Western New York, Hope Chest, Pink Ribbon Good, the WNY Look Good Feel Better program, as well as mental health counseling services, places to get wigs, sexual health counseling, transportation needs, survivorship, and more,” says Theresa.
Noting that breast cancer is a family disease, Theresa understands what patients and families go through, and is there every step of the way to get them the resources they need. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, or are concerned about a symptom you’re experiencing, Great Lakes Cancer Care Collaborative will help guide you through the process. Learn more at https://www.greatlakescancercare.org, or call 716-884-3000. For information on GLCCC’s comprehensive support services visit https://www.greatlakescancercare.org/cancer-services/.
