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Stories of Inspiration

Stories of the fighters, believers, and survivors who've inspired us with their determination and hopeful spirit.

  • Mallory Leblanc

    Mallory Leblanc: A Clinical Trial Saved My Life

    In early 2020, as the world was entering the earliest phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mallory Leblanc’s world was also turned upside down when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She said participating in a clinical trial at Texas Oncology helped save her life.

    “Thirty years ago, my diagnosis could have killed me, but cancer research and clinical trials like the one I participated in saved my life. The stakes could not be higher – so why not participate in a clinical trial? You’re fighting cancer and advancing cancer care – and that’s amazing.”

    Mallory Leblanc
    Breast Cancer
  • Carly Waters

    Carly Waters: Embracing Each Day with Grace and Gratitude

    After a stage III colorectal cancer diagnosis, Carly Waters learned to lean on others for support. Now cancer free, she finds creative ways to spread kindness and support for others who may be struggling.

    “In a world where things aren’t always good, it makes people feel good to help – and they really want to help.”

    Carly Waters
    Colon Cancer, Rectal Cancer
  • Don Cooper

    Don Cooper: Genetic Testing Leads to Clarity

    After Don Cooper tested positive for the BRCA gene mutation, his genetic testing results not only helped him better understand his type of cancer, but also allowed his family to take their own cancer prevention steps.

    “What does it buy me to be mad at the world? You take the bad with the good. You’ve got to put up a fight.”

    Don Cooper
    Prostate Cancer
  • Elaine Sanders

    Elaine Sanders: From Patient to Passionate Yoga Practitioner

    For Elaine Sanders, a cancer diagnosis led to a newfound love of yoga and a community of support from fellow cancer patients and survivors.

    “Yoga has helped my cancer recovery and improved my life and my outlook.“

    Elaine Sanders
    Breast Cancer
  • Michelle Benoist

    Michelle Benoist: Turning Challenge into Opportunity

    For Michelle Benoist, a stay-at-home mother of two, a colorectal cancer diagnosis changed her perspective and her life. It led to an unexpected new calling: avid advocacy for preventive cancer screenings.

    “I was actively being screened for cervical and skin cancer, but never thought about colorectal cancer. I’m now a huge advocate for cancer screenings, and I frequently encourage others to get screened.”

    Michelle Benoist
    Colon Cancer
  • James Miller

    James Miller: Treatment Targeted to His Lifestyle

    James Miller chose to enroll in a clinical trial of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for prostate cancer, allowing him to fight his disease with ease and continue his active lifestyle.

    “I was never afraid of my cancer diagnosis, but at my age, I didn’t want treatment to hold me back, or keep me from going on with my life as normal”

    James Miller
    Prostate Cancer