The diagnosis of a five-centimeter, hormone receptor–positive breast tumor came as a complete shock. I was in my fifties, healthy, and with no family history of cancer. The tumor was removed at my local hospital in Soldotna, Alaska, but the surgeon admitted she “didn’t get it all” and doubted it was even cancer. The biopsy proved otherwise. Remembering several success stories my father-in-law had shared about Oasis of Hope Hospital, I decided to seek treatment there before pursuing any other option.
The treatment at Oasis of Hope was successful. I began to see signs of tumor shrinkage even before I left the hospital, and improvements continued once I returned home. Eventually, all my tests showed no evidence of cancer, and I was able to resume a normal, healthy lifestyle.
In 2010, I was diagnosed with a recurrence of breast cancer. A smaller tumor and several lymph nodes were removed, and once again, I returned to Oasis of Hope for treatment. Afterward, I was declared cancer-free and have remained healthy for over ten years, living an active and fulfilling life at age 70.
Oasis of Hope truly changed my life. The education I received there helped me understand how to eat properly, maintain my immune system, and use supplements effectively to prevent cancer recurrence. The treatments strengthen the bodyrather than weaken it, a refreshing contrast to much of conventional medicine. I also experienced the hospital’s holistic philosophy — nurturing body, mind, and spirit — which helped me embrace my faith and understand the emotional connections to physical health.
The hospital’s proactive and compassionate approach gives patients the tools to thrive: world-class medical research, daily educational lectures, cooking classes, nutritious meals, uplifting music, and spiritual encouragement. Dr. Francisco Contreras is a gifted and compassionate physician, and Dr. Ceceña is a wise and dedicated doctor who tirelessly cares for his patients.