Please tell us about your journey to StayWell, what led you to us, where does your story begin?
"In 2021 I was diagnosed with a rare cancer called Uveal Melanoma. I had a tumor in my left eye (14/7 mm). Ophthalmologists immediately sent me to PMH . This is the only place where they have an Ocular Oncologist and treat people like me from all over Canada. They did two surgeries on my eye. But the worst thing about this UM cancer is it spreads very fast to the liver, lungs, bones, and soft tissues. In the beginning my son was helping me with transportation and supported me with money . It took so much time, he was missing his job .Unfortunately, my husband left me after the surgery. It is not easy to face someone with cancer. The secretary of Dr. Butler referred me to you because I am now on the treatment and have to come to PMH more often. I thank you and I thank God every day that you are existing."
Where did you have to relocate from? How was the journey from home to Toronto?​
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"I live in Cornwall, Ontario, by myself. My son and granddaughter visit me all the time, and go shopping for me, do a groceries, cleaning, etc. I often took the Megabus if my son cannot bring me to PMH. The Megabus usually doesn’t stop in Cornwall, so I drive to the Montreal Bus station to go in Toronto to PMH."
What were the things you found difficult? How did StayWell help?​
"I am retired woman. My only income is my pension which is not big. Any money is help for me. I have stage 4 metastatic Uveal Melanoma with spreads in the other organs. Every day I need more help because of my condition. StayWell helps me a lot with accommodations and travel experiences. Thank you so much."
What were the positive aspects of your stay?​
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"My stay with StayWell was always comfortable and warm. It gave me time to prepare for my appointments. It is a small distance to the hospital. In the winter, I took a taxi for a really small price. I hope you will support me further with accommodations and travel expenses. I appreciate your support very much to me and others with cancer, by making our lives less difficult."
Would you recommend StayWell to other patients in need of access to medical care in Toronto?​
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"Yes."
