Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1526708
8 | Health Matters: Providence St. Joseph Hospital Sarai Vaca was 30 years old and pregnant with her third child—a joyous time for her and her husband, Omar. That is, until she got the news that she had breast cancer. Turning to the Center for Cancer Prevention and Treatment at Providence St. Joseph Hospital, Sarai had a mastectomy followed by chemotherapy. Her medical team provided comprehensive care for Sarai and her family, helping alleviate their fears about keeping the unborn child safe. Baby Olivia arrived in February 2023. Health Matters recently checked in with Sarai to see how she and her family are doing today. Hi, Sarai. Give us an update on your health. I am doing really well! I try to run most days, because it increases my energy. I finished my cancer treatment in July 2023, and I am thankful to be able to say I feel healthy and am cancer-free today. Your passion for running led you to participate in the Los Angeles Marathon recently. Yes. I wanted to inspire other people after I survived cancer. Training for the marathon and crossing the finish line showed me that all things are possible. I have so much respect for marathoners, and I appreciate my body for all it has been through. How is Olivia doing now? Olivia is great. She is 16 months old, and she is a very bright little girl. She loves to dance, be around dogs, play with her older brother and sister, and have all the attention on her! Speaking of her siblings, how are Ezra and Amaya? Ezra is eight years old and loves baseball and basketball. He is playing summer ball, and as a family, we enjoy being there and supporting his passion. Amaya is three years old, and she is one of a kind. She loves music and loves to dance, play with her brother and shop with me. Are you still teaching? I just finished my eighth year of teaching, and it's something that I find joy and love in. I love second grade; it's the only grade I've taught. How would you describe the care you received from Providence St. Joseph? They changed my life! Everyone at the Center for Cancer Prevention and Treatment truly cares for their patients. They always made me feel like a human being and not just someone battling cancer. I am very appreciative of the care and attention I received. I always felt valued and heard, and I still do to this day. I am thankful that I was in the best hands throughout this journey. I wouldn't have wanted to be anywhere else. A Journey of Compassion Cancer survivor Sarai Vaca, her baby Olivia and her family are thriving, thanks to her successful treatment at the Center for Cancer Prevention and Treatment.