When I was first diagnosed with a serious cancer, I had been working in the veterinary field for over 10 years. I continued to work in the same small-animal practice for the next two years following treatment. I thoroughly enjoyed my job, but my cancer changed me. I found myself becoming irritated when people fretted about things that just didn’t seem as important to me anymore.

Small Stones Wellness CenterIn my very core, I knew that I needed to work with cancer patients. I knew that I absolutely had to try to help people and basically pay forward all of the amazing care I had received during my treatment. Enter Small Stones Wellness Center. Ding! ding! ding! We have a winner! "Hi, Maria? This is your dream job calling."

In Small Stones, I am an aesthetic wellness coordinator. I, with my teammates, have a mission to enhance the lives of people touched by cancer. In the Wellness Center, I have the opportunity to truly help people dealing with a cancer diagnosis, addressing their mind-body-spirit. We carry products to help patients with many of the side effects of treatment, e.g. essential oils, natural makeup, skin care and stylish and comfortable head coverings. We offer services we’ve contracted in, such as massage therapy, reiki, cosmetology (wigs, etc.), aesthetics (facials and makeup) and acupuncture. We also plan classes and events with topics geared toward patients and their caregivers to help them through their treatment, and into survivorship as well.

My favorite part of the job is that I get to talk to people. I have the complete honor of listening to them, hearing their stories, empathizing with their fears, comforting them when they receive difficult news and rejoicing in their victories — whether it’s a clean scan or the fact that they were able to eat a meal without getting sick that day.

I’m not going to lie: It’s not always sunshine and roses. I have become close with patients who have not had a good outcome. Those losses are incredibly difficult. I try to focus on the fact that hopefully I was able to provide some friendship and positivity during their time with me. For me, this job is a must-have. I feel I owe it to God, the universe or whomever, to do all that I can with the incredible second chance at life I have been given.


Share Your Thoughts

Did your cancer diagnosis inspire you to help others with cancer? Were you moved to make some changes in your life that went beyond your diagnosis and treatment? Share your comments below.

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About the Author

Maria grew up in the historical village of Greendale, where she and much of her family still reside. In March of 2008 she began to experience pain in her right leg. An MRI showed Maria that there was a tumor in her upper thigh/groin area and that it was likely serious. She was immediately referred to Froedtert & MCW's Clinical Cancer Center, specifically the sarcoma team. She feels so fortunate to be working with cancer patients, offering support and empathy. She is blessed to have the chance to bring them educational opportunities and wellness products and services to support them during and after their treatment.

Kimberly Yoghourtjian

Dear Maria,
What a blessed opportunity to help others as they go through their cancer journey. I am so glad God led you to Small Stones.