Cancer Patient Testimonials

At Saint Alphonsus, we understand that no two cancer patients are alike, and neither is their cancer treatment journey. Each patient's journey, though, has some common traits: strength, determination, persistence and sense of hope in the battle against cancer.

We are inspired by our patients’ stories and hope that by telling their stories here, in their own words, it will inspire you as well.

Video Testimonials

Laurea’s Breast Cancer Story

As a colleague of Saint Alphonsus Health System for over 40 years, Laurea Howell, like many, postponed her screening mammogram throughout the pandemic

Beth's Breast Cancer Journey

Meet Beth, a Boise native, mother of two, and a wife to her loving husband for 17 years.

Skin Cancer Awareness - Kathleen's story

Be inspired by the incredible story of skin cancer survivor, Kathleen Gagnon.

Sophia Tobe's Story - Ovarian Cancer

Join Sophia Tobe on a courageous journey as she opens up about her ovarian cancer diagnosis after seeking help at Saint Alphonsus.

Anthony Serna's Story - Esophageal Cancer

Join Tony Serna on his journey battling esophageal cancer and the challenges he faced.

Paul Godfrey's Story - Colon Cancer

Paul Godfrey shares his journey with colon cancer, emphasizing the crucial role of early detection and the unwavering support received from the compassionate team at Saint Alphonsus.

Saint Alphonsus Uses New Robotic Tech to Fight Lung Cancer

Check out how Saint Alphonsus in Boise is using the latest Ion robotic system to detect and remove lung cancer early.

Walt's Esophageal Cancer Story

Meet Walt and his wife Jill, and hear first-hand the importance of catching esophageal cancer early.

Jordy's Colorectal Cancer Story

Meet Jordy and hear first-hand the importance of having a colonoscopy screening.

Celebrating Cancer Survivors at the Festival of Trees

This heartfelt video showcases the journeys of 40 cancer survivors, sharing their resilience, strength, and hope.

A Journey of Resilience and Hope Against Multiple Myeloma

Meet Frank, a writer, husband, and fighter who battled multiple myeloma with courage and determination.

Meet Pamela Bruce, MD – Breast Cancer Story

“It’s humbling in one sense, because you are not the doctor but now the patient”.

Terry's Esophageal Cancer Story

Meet Terry, who discovered he had early-stage esophageal cancer after undergoing an endoscopy for an unrelated condition.

Beating Lung Cancer with Innovation, Support & Strength

Denise Wingett’s life took an unexpected turn when a routine imaging scan revealed a lung nodule.

Joshua’s Rectal Cancer Story

Meet Joshua Jensen and hear first-hand the importance of having a colonoscopy screening.

Paul's Cancer Journey

Meet Paul and his family, who are making sure they appreciate life while on the cancer care journey.

Kerry's Story

Hear Kerry's uplifting story on dealing with cancer and the strength he gains from his wife and the Saint Alphonsus staff.

Ginger's Journey

“I think from the very beginning of finding out that you have breast cancer, you instantly think of your children.”

Joan Ann Piper Paris Surprise

The colleagues at the Saint Alphonsus Cancer Institute in Nampa had a surprise for one of their patients.

Get Screened for Breast Cancer

Terry explains how receiving a mammogram from the Saint Alphonsus Mobile Mammo Coach changed her life.

Cancer Patient Makes Daughter's Wedding

The story of how the Saint Alphonsus staff came together for a cancer patient and his daughter.

Clinical Trials Fight Cancer

Paul has stage four cancer. Oncologists put him in an innovative clinical trial and then he gets unexpected news.

Shirley Celebrates Her Victory Over Cancer

Shirley celebrated her final treatment at Saint Alphonsus after her months-long journey to beat cancer.

Jan's Cancer Journey

Learn more about how Jan's cancer diagnosis affected her life, and how Saint Alphonsus nurse navigators were a key part of her treatment.

Jim's Last Treatment

Jim beat cancer. After ringing the final bell signaling the end of chemotherapy, he was rewarded with a round of applause and a hug. 

Early Detection of Cancer Saves Deb

We found Deb's breast cancer when it was microscopic. Thanks to our remarkable cancer team, Deb is loving life again.