Rocking the battle against cancer

I don’t think anyone is ever prepared to be diagnosed with cancer (the “c” word). Even after my mother’s cancer diagnosis and battles, the first in 1998 in Pennsylvania and the second just a few years ago after she moved to Delaware, my own news still hit me hard.

Since 2020, I have been undergoing treatments for stage IV metastatic breast cancer with Beebe Healthcare’s Oncology Services. I couldn’t ask for a better place or team to receive care.

My mother and I have both received treatment at Tunnell Cancer Center, and we agree that not only are we given excellent clinical care, but also given a sense of hope, understanding, education and communication. All the people we interact with, from the greeters and administrative staff to the nurses and doctors, are simply the best. Their compassion and care make the time my mother and I have spent there so much more pleasant.

I am a musician. Music and performing is what I know best. For me, it’s also the best therapy around. Throughout my cancer battle, I have relied on my music, and I continue to share it with my friends and fans. So, besides the wonderful care I receive at Beebe, I have been so blessed to have a community of support surrounding me, including family, friends and amazing fans!

Because of my music and Beebe, my initial fears and sadness have turned into determination and an extra-positive outlook. I try to live each day to the fullest!

I also want to support Beebe and other Beebe patients who are on a cancer journey, too. So, my friends and I have organized a music-based fundraiser, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Beebe Oncology Services. Specifically, our donation will go to the Patient Special Needs Fund, which provides needs-based support to Beebe cancer patients who are battling this relentless disease.

So, thank you to Beebe from the bottom of my heart for the great care and the endless compassion you have given to my mother and me. I hope the contribution from our fundraiser brings peace and comfort to others in your care.

As a community-based, not-for-profit healthcare system, Beebe Healthcare depends on the generous support of the community it serves. To learn more about Christine Havrilla’s fundraiser, go to musichappens.org/hp3. To make a gift to celebrate the excellent care you or a loved one has received, visit Beebe Medical Foundation at beebemedicalfoundation.org or call 302-644-2900. Want to share your story? Contact Amanda Neal at aneal@beebehealthcare.org.