Marge and family celebrate the end of her treatment.
After finishing treatment at Providence Cancer Institute for pancreatic cancer, Marge Rosson knew exactly how she could show appreciation for the extraordinary care she received—by volunteering.
Diagnosed in 2023, Marge enrolled in a clinical trial that included a treatment regimen of chemotherapy, followed by a surgical procedure called a modified Whipple, and then four more weeks of chemotherapy.
During the long hours in the infusion room at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center, where Marge received her chemotherapy, she experienced and witnessed daily acts of compassion by the caregivers that made her feel safe and wholly cared for.
“My care was incomparable,” she said. “They [caregivers] were all very dedicated, professional and funny. The reason I wanted to volunteer after treatment was to acknowledge that I care about the men and women who do this work. I wanted to be of help to them.”
Choosing to participate in a clinical trial
Throughout treatment, Marge was always surrounded by family and friends.
Marge’s cancer was discovered after a routine MRI, a yearly preventive measure to monitor pancreatic cysts. Because it was caught early, she was offered an opportunity to enroll in a national clinical trial at Providence Cancer Institute. Without hesitation, Marge jumped at the chance to participate. For her, being a part of a trial was both a chance to access the latest treatment options and a way to support research that could help others facing the same diagnosis.
The road through treatment wasn’t easy, but Marge says she was supported every step of the way. From her oncologist, Emily Lin, M.D., to the oncology nurses who stayed late to make sure she was comfortable, to the nurse navigators who attended every appointment, Marge felt that she was surrounded by people who truly cared.
“Every time I came in, there was calm underneath everything, like they were saying, ‘You’re okay here. We’ve got your back,’” she said.
Marge and Andy, her husband of 57 years.
Her own support system, which included her husband of 57 years, their four children and a large close-knit extended family and group of friends, carried her through the roughest days of treatment. And her surgeon, John Creasy, M.D., gave her confidence and hope. “He was very engaged, very down-to-earth and took his time with me,” Marge said. “That meant a lot to me.”
Giving back in the infusion room
With family and friends, Marge made the best of her time during chemotherapy.
When Marge completed treatment in summer 2024, she knew she wanted to return as a volunteer. She now spends her time helping the infusion team with whatever is needed: restocking supplies, wiping down chairs, offering blankets and warm drinks, or simply being a friendly face.
Marge said she's learned to “read the room,” being mindful of patients who prefer quiet over conversation or connection. Sometimes her gestures are simple. “I may sit beside someone who’s having a hard day and let them know they’re not alone.”
These tasks add up to something meaningful to Marge. “I want to be a glimmer in someone’s day,” she said.
“I know what they’re going through,” Marge said. “If I can make someone smile or feel just a little more at ease, that’s worth everything to me.”
Find out more
Learn about Providence Cancer Institute Liver, Pancreas and Surgical Oncology Clinic - Westside
Interested in volunteering? Find out how today.
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