Patient Testimonial: Donna

Compassionate and Comprehensive Care at LCC

Donna, pictured with a mural she painted in art therapy

In December of 2018, after a colonoscopy ordered by PMC physician Dr. Jerry King, Donna was diagnosed with stage three colorectal cancer. She knew she wanted to receive treatment close to home. The Lawson Cancer Center (LCC) could provide her with the comprehensive care she needed.

Radiation therapy was the first step in her treatment plan. Donna saw PMC Radiation Oncologist Dr. Ruth Lavigne, who Donna said calmed all her fears.

“My first meeting with her, she put me at ease,” said Donna. “I didn’t even have to ask her anything; she was so thorough in her explanation of treatment. She was absolutely exceptional and with me every step of the way.”

Donna was treated with the linear accelerator, an advanced machine used to pinpoint tumors and utilizes low-dose radiation.

After radiation therapy had shrunk her tumor, Donna underwent surgery to remove it. Following surgery, she embarked on her chemotherapy journey. Donna said the LCC staff made her treatment comfortable, and oftentimes, enjoyable.

“I developed such strong relationships with the staff-I love them all! They treated me so well, and the way I was treated made me feel much better during that difficult time,” Donna said.

After her treatments were completed, Donna joined the LCC’s Survivorship Support Group led by Nurse Practitioner Darlene Ellis and the “Art of Healing” group led by Community Outreach Coordinator Makala Little.

“It helps so much to be around people who understand what you’re going through,” Donna explained. “It’s special to be able to share our testimonies and be there for one another.”

Donna said she has always had a love for art and creating things, so the “Art of Healing” group interested her. Now, she does not miss a class, participating in the group every week.

“I was blessed by the experience I had at the Lawson Cancer Center during treatment, and continue to be part of the family here,” said Donna. “This is a great resource for the people of Eastern Kentucky. You can truly get full-service care right here at home.”

To support patients like Donna, donate to the Lawson Cancer Center Initiative. Funds from donors and grants are used to further cancer research, invest in advanced equipment, and most importantly, make a difference in the lives of patients.

To donate, go to https://givetopmc.org/lawson-family-cancer-center/