Grateful Patient Spotlight: Annette’s Journey with Breast Cancer

When Annette was diagnosed with breast cancer two and a half years ago, her journey began with uncertainty and fear. Everything changed when she met Dr. Michel Velez at Holy Cross Health. 

“I appreciate the compassionate assistance that I have received during my struggle with breast cancer,” Annette shared. “Thank you, Dr. Velez.” 

Her connection to Dr. Michel Velez and her surgeon, Dr. Jessica Burgers, was so strong that when her insurance no longer covered visits to Holy Cross Health, she was heartbroken. Later, Annette received a card in the mail that said another insurance plan would cover both doctors. She immediately called to confirm, scheduled an appointment, and switched her plan. 

“I didn’t want to see anyone else. I found a plan that would cover them and switched back. I even got in just in time for my next exam, so I didn’t miss a thing,” she said. 

Though she was behind on her mammogram, Dr. Velez took immediate action and scheduled it for her. “With cancer, I’m scared. I need someone to care for me through the end. Dr. Velez is that person. He truly cares, and no one is like him.” 

At one point, Annette faced the possibility of chemotherapy. She was scared and didn’t want to go through it. Dr. Velez offered an alternative approach. “And it’s been working great,” she recalled. “Most doctors just tell you what to do, but not him. I trust him completely.” 

Grateful for the care that kept her out of the hospital and gave her peace of mind, Annette was inspired to make a philanthropic gift in honor of her Healing Hero to support the Michael and Dianne Bienes Comprehensive Cancer Center. 

To learn more about the Healing Heroes program, visit Holy-Cross.com/HealingHeroes.