My story of hope Maribel Preston
Can you imagine a moment that divides your life into before and after?
That moment came for me, Maribel Preston, on December 13, 2018. “You have breast cancer,” they said. And suddenly, the world stood still. From that instant, my journey as a survivor began within the walls of the place I also work and call my second home, the Cecilia Gonzalez De La Hoya Cancer Center at Adventist Health White Memorial.
I’m sharing this with you because my story isn’t just about cancer. It’s a testament to hope, resilience and the incredible care that transformed my life, which I believe can touch hearts and inspire courage and compassion.
I invite you to watch this video to go deeper into my world and as a bridge to understanding the profound impact of compassionate care. Will you take a moment to witness my journey?
The Profound Need
Did you know that patients in East Los Angeles and Boyle Heights have 12% of all cancer in California, yet there are only two oncologists at Adventist Health White Memorial to serve a population of over 140,000 people?
This has resulted in a longer wait time for an appointment to begin treatment. And I know from personal experience, the sooner treatment begins, the better the outcomes. While some patients can travel to access care outside our community, we are committed to providing the care our neighbors need and deserve right here in East Los Angeles.
Cecilia Gonzalez De La Hoya Cancer Services
6,000 community members come to the Cecilia Gonzalez De La Hoya Cancer Center annually for:
- screening
- advanced treatment
- ongoing follow-up care
- survivorship services
- early detection and diagnosis
- breast cancer support group conducted in Spanish
- community resource center containing books, videos and educational materials
- free breast exams, mammograms and treatment for women underinsured or without insurance
You Can Help
To meet this need and serve our patients, Adventist Health White Memorial plans to increase our oncology services. To accomplish this, we must expand and upgrade our space, recruit additional providers and purchase new equipment to support these new physicians and their patients.
Please make your gift today. Your investment will help many of whom are unable to pay, seeking quality, compassionate care after a cancer diagnosis. It will also empower us to create miracles for the community.
The Cecilia Gonzalez De La Hoya Cancer Center has made a promise to continue to be a sanctuary of healing and hope for our community’s most vulnerable residents. Every contribution strengthens this promise.