Patient Stories
Pancreatic Cancer Clinical Trial Patient Partners with Hoag to Take Control of His Health
“I think about Jon every day,” Ruud said. “I feel lucky, in a way, to be part of this trial.” Not a day goes by that Olav Ruud doesn’t think about Jon Engen. Ruud befriended the three-time Olympian cross country racer years ago, bonding over their shared first language, Norwegian, and their love of … Read More
When an ER Doctor Battled Cancer During the Pandemic, She Turned to Hoag
“I feel so blessed. Hoag has been such an amazing place to receive care.” At the height of the pandemic, people across the nation stood outside their homes, banging pots and pans and cheering to show their deep appreciation for health care workers. Meanwhile, one of those health care workers sat in a recovery … Read More
Sandi’s Story
When Sandi Benson was diagnosed with lung cancer, she was not afraid. That’s partly because of who she is – a positive, resilient and innate fighter with a spiritual resolve that leaves her at-ease when life throws a curve ball. But it’s also because of where she would take on the No. 1 cancer killer of … Read More
Hoag Saved Both Our Lives
After I was diagnosed at age 27, Hoag found a genetic mutation, and tested my family. Hoag enrolled my dad in their surveillance program and found early stage pancreatic cancer. Thankfully they were able to treat it before it advanced.
Glioblastoma Patient to Hoag: ‘You Made My Year’
“After a year, I sent Dr. Louis a thank you note,” Bernd said. “He told me I made his day. I told him, ‘You made my year.’”
Lung Cancer Survivor Feels Connected to Hoag
“I was impressed with his expertise with robotic surgery,” she said. “I thought, ‘This is good. I can stay right here and be treated at Hoag.’”
‘How Does One Live a Good Life?’
“I think Mr. Hoag was the nicest person, and the kindest person, in the whole world,” Cristina said.
Hoag Nurse Andrea Finds ‘Silver Lining’ in Hereditary Cancer Team
“It was super scary, but Frances in Hoag’s Hereditary Cancer Program was awesome. She was nice and informative. She gave us all sorts of information and told us about the plan and screening process. She was very helpful at a bad time,” Andrea said. “That is what has been great about the program.”
ER Nurse Becomes Cancer Survivor at the Hospital She Trusts
“The whole team at Hoag Family Cancer Institute, most especially the nurse navigators, blew my mind,” she said. “Everyone was incredible. They truly care. I have felt so connected to every one of my doctors.”
Oral Cancer Survivor Creates Food Guide to Give Others Hope
“I am grateful to share my food recovery journey,” he said. “The effect of talking with people who have said this guide has given them hope, it’s one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”