Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center

Patient Stories

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Courage Through Cancer: Stories of Strength, Hope, and Healing

From diagnosis to recovery, our patients share their journeys of resilience and determination. Patient experiences reflect the comprehensive care and expertise at the heart of our center. These stories inspire and offer hope, shedding light on the human side of cancer care and the transformative power of compassion and cutting-edge treatment.

DeLisa Johnigarn

After receiving a breast cancer diagnosis in Mississippi, DeLisa Johnigarn was told she would only have two years left to live. She then decided to come to UTSW to be near her children, and her care team and treatment at Simmons Cancer Center have led the road to her recovery.

Janeye Pritchard

Breast cancer survivor Janeye Pritchard was originally diagnosed after her first-ever mammogram at age 46. She encourages others to not wait to get their mammogram. Thankful for her care team at UT Southwestern Simmons Cancer Center, Janeye says they gave her a sense of “peace and calm, and I knew I was going to be okay.”

Catherine Spencer

Catherine Spencer felt like a healthy 33 year old until she was diagnosed with triple positive breast cancer. After a lumpectomy, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy, she is now getting back to doing the things she loves, thanks to her care at UT Southwestern Simmons Cancer Center.

Conquering Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Brianna Hinojosa-Smith’s Survivor Story

Brianna Hinojosa-Smith was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer after discovering a mass. She received 16 weeks of chemotherapy and had seven surgeries at UT Southwestern. Now an eight-year survivor, she encourages others to seek medical attention if something feels wrong with their body.

Fighting Breast Cancer Twice: Stephanie Davis' Inspiring Battle

Stephanie Davis was diagnosed with stage 3 HER2-positive breast cancer and received chemotherapy and radiation at UT Southwestern. After five years of remission, her cancer returned as metastatic breast cancer. She continues treatment and remains positive, urging others to get regular mammograms.

Angela Sells - Breast Cancer Survivor

Angela Sells, a breast cancer survivor, chose UT Southwestern for its cutting-edge treatments and research. Diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer, Angela received targeted antibody therapy that cleared her scans within months. Her treatment has added years to her life, allowing her to enjoy time with her grandchildren.

Finding Joy After Cancer: Taffie Lynn Butters’ Triumph Over Breast Cancer

Taffie Lynn Butters was diagnosed with stage 2b ductal carcinoma after a self-exam revealed irregularities. She underwent a mastectomy and received chemotherapy and radiation at UT Southwestern. Now cancer-free, Taffie has embraced a new outlook on life, focusing on joy and spending time with loved ones.

Targeted Therapy Success: Mrs. DeLee’s Journey to Beating AML

Mrs. DeLee, diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), joined a research program focused on targeted therapy. Instead of traditional chemotherapy, she took a new pill developed through the Beat AML project and is now in remission, living a normal life.

Beating AML: Yanni’s Journey from Greece to Recovery

Yanni was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) while on vacation in Greece. After genomic testing at UT Southwestern, he received targeted therapy through the Beat AML trial. Now in recovery, Yanni is living a normal life without the need for hospitalization.

Roberto’s Battle with Rectal Cancer: Immunotherapy and Support

At 30, Roberto was diagnosed with rectal cancer and enrolled in a clinical trial at UT Southwestern that combined immunotherapy with chemotherapy and radiation. With support from his medical team and a group of fellow young adult cancer patients, he remains optimistic about his treatment​.