ourstory

Geaton A. DeCesaris Jr.’s Story

In October 2002 Geaton DeCesaris, Jr. was diagnosed with stage 3C lung cancer. He lived with his health issues with an unbelievable will to survive, taking God as his partner. His unwavering faith is inspiring.

He was surrounded by the unconditional love of his awesome wife JoAnn, five daughters, two sons-in-law, three adorable granddaughters, eight siblings, their spouses and children and countless friends and extended family. The lives that have been touched and inspired by Geaton’s fortitude are too many to count.


Maureen Prout’s Story

After several months of varying complaints, Maureen Prout was diagnosed with Stage 3C Ovarian Cancer in February 2002.

Maureen’s symptoms started with back cramps, but the Dr.’s said she probably pulled a muscle. She had indigestion but was prescribed Zantac. Her stomach was bloated, they said diet. She had even mentioned this sneaky unheard of “Ovarian Cancer” to her gynecologist, but was quickly dismissed.

Why? She asked, which maybe you are now asking too.

Ovarian Cancer “Whispers.” The disease has symptoms—lots of them; but most women do not realize gas, indigestion, cramping, & bloating are RED FLAGS for Ovarian Cancer. Maureen had all of those symptoms. Like most women, she did not realize that miscarriages, ovarian cysts, use of fertility drugs, breast cancer and other contributing factors greatly increase your risk of Ovarian Cancer. It was heart breaking when she found out that although “only” 1 in 55 women are diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer, over 15,000 ovarian cancer victims will die this year.

Maureen sought out the best treatment centers and doctors available. For five good years, these doctors treated her to the best of their ability. She was able to witness the birth of two beautiful grandchildren and spend time with her beloved husband, Charley, her son, Bill, his wife, Megan, and her daughter Beth.

On January 24, 2007, after almost five years, several different types of chemo, and more than 150 treatments, Maureen succumbed to the disease; a fate that most other ovarian cancer patients face.

Maureen sums up her outlook on life with cancer with the following:

“As many of you know I was diagnosed with stage III C Ovarian Cancer in January 2002 – yes four plus years ago and over a 100 chemotherapy treatments since. Cancer has changed my life, but for the better in many ways. I’ve learned to love more, smile more, and pray more. I count my blessings, which are many, and look forward to the good days ahead. I could not take this journey alone & I thank God for my family, friends, and medical staff, who have been there every step of the way. Remember ~ there is life with cancer & it can be a very good life!”