Paying it forward: Sharing Kindness

Patricia Edwards was not surprised by her breast cancer diagnosis. Her family has a history of breast cancer and Edwards career as a therapist prepared Edwards for the news. Instead, she was surprised by the care she received.

A routine mammogram found a small spot on the test results. Further testing revealed the early stages of breast cancer. Edwards was quickly scheduled for a lumpectomy and radiation at UnityPoint Health – Methodist campus.  

“I felt absolutely supported by the team taking care of me. They were kind and compassionate towards me and it really created a caring atmosphere,” Edwards says. 

She says she knows the team’s kindness was genuine. 

“I saw how much they all care for each other. I was very impressed by that. It was excellent to see because it showed me they were very professional people and honestly concerned with my well-being as a person,” she says. 

Edwards is now cancer-free and on a mission. She started a cancer support group at her church. Every group member has a different cancer diagnosis from one another because she wanted to create a safe space for people to share their feelings. Edwards psychology background involves helping adults who have endured trauma and she’s hoping to make a difference in other people’s cancer journey.

For more information on UnityPoint Health’s Oncology Breast Health Center, call (309) 672-4202.