Our Impact

"Our Impact" represents the meaningful difference North of Boston Cancer Resource has made in the lives of individuals and families affected by cancer. Through compassionate support services, resources, and community connections, we are committed to easing the burden of cancer treatment and recovery.
Hear the stories of those who have benefitted from our services. These survivors' journeys reflect the positive impact of our mission to help people live stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling lives after cancer.

 

Peter’s Story

Lisa’s Story

 
 

At 47, my world turned upside down with a diagnosis of stage three breast cancer, just four months after a clear mammogram. With two teenagers to raise and an unsupportive partner, I had to lean on my community like never before. In doing so, I discovered North of Boston Cancer Resources (NBCR), a beacon of hope that connected me with Erin Hanson—a gifted healer who has since become a dear friend.

Erin’s therapeutic lymphatic drainage massages have been a vital part of my journey. After having all the lymph nodes on my left side removed and choosing a double mastectomy with a flat closure, the holistic support she provided felt like a lifeline. Her compassionate, down-to-earth demeanor eased my discomfort, allowing me to feel more at ease with my new body. I am convinced her work has been crucial for my healing, not only physically but also emotionally.

I am profoundly grateful for NBCR and their unwavering commitment to helping people like me. This ever-growing community continues to support so many of us with kindness, resources, and hope. To anyone navigating this path or standing by a loved one through it, I hope you find support, compassion, and healing as I did.
- Jennifer LeDuc

 
 
 


I can't tell you how grateful I am for the gift certificates I have been able to use for massage and acupunture. They have helped out so much during this terrible time in my life. The support from North of Boston Cancer Resource has been huge. Just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate it!
- Christopher Tatoyian

 

I am a woman in my 60’s who has taken care to live a healthy and happy lifestyle my entire life. So what a shock to receive a breast cancer diagnosis in my mid-60’s! Hearing those three words – “you have cancer” – is something everyone dreads that forever changes a person’s direction in life. You will never be the same. I consider myself extremely fortunate as I experienced surgery but not chemotherapy or radiation. However, an amputation of any body part is horrific and takes enormous strength and support to overcome the direction of sadness and fear that is understandable for anyone going through this unexpected journey.

When I discovered the North of Boston Cancer Resource, I was met with warm support, understanding and care, and it truly has allowed me to forge this difficult path with strength and determination. The volunteers at NBCR have also taught my husband and other family members how to navigate the sadness that they were experiencing, giving them tools to help me regain true health. The practitioners I have met through NBCR have offered me support in learning how to stay healthy and I believe I have regained good physical, emotional, and spiritual health because of the programs at NBCR.

Navigating a cancer journey is lifelong. Although I have a large family, it is impossible for them to fully understand what it feels like to face serious illness, as well as the physical and emotional trauma of living without a breast. But I have benefited enormously from the holistic practices I have experienced thanks to NBCR – massage, lymphatic drainage, nutritional understanding, support groups, Reiki. I am forever grateful.
- Terri Olvera

 

I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer in July of 2022.
As you can imagine it was a frightening diagnosis and I found out I would need chemotherapy and a double mastectomy.

Chemotherapy was the absolutely worst of it for me. After every treatment I had extreme weakness in my legs couldn’t walk for 5 to 20 days. I was also dealing with nausea, hives, constipation and absolutely no energy.

When I found NBCR I was able to have oncology massage and acupuncture which have been imperative in my recovery. I had weekly acupuncture treatments with Sophie Barkan who is an angel.  She helped me with a lot of the side effects that came with chemo.

I still see Sophie to maintain my health - not weekly but monthly. As a small business owner, I would not be able to do that without the help of NBCR.

From the bottom of my heart
Thank you for all you do.
- Sabrina Silva

 

Your generosity helps us continue this vital work. By donating today, you can ensure that more individuals and families have access to the support they need during one of the most challenging times of their lives. Every contribution—no matter the size—helps us make a lasting impact. Click below to make a donation and be part of our mission to bring hope and healing to our community.