Patient Stories

Steve McCluski - Colon Cancer

Steve McCluski was referred to Dr. Alok Khorana, a specialist in cancers of the stomach and colon. The additional tests that Dr. Khorana performed revealed more bad news: it appeared Steve’s cancer had already spread out of his lymph nodes. There was a strong likelihood that Steve had stage 4 colon cancer.

Steve McCluski has been cancer free for 6 years. Read his story.

Jennifer Miller - Lymphocytic Leukemia

Jennifer Miller had the glow of an expectant mother in fall of 2002. She and her husband, Greg, were eager for the birth of their first child and ready for the challenges of parenthood. In the coming weeks and months, Jennifer would face obstacles that most pregnant women could never imagine, as she battled for her own life and the life of her unborn child. In the process, she inspired many doctors, nurses and staff at the James P. Wilmot Cancer Center with her strength and grace.

Jennifer Miller has been cancer free for 9 years. Read her story.

Cathy Drake - Follicular Lymphoma

Cathy had always lived an active life. She enjoyed camping, hiking and gardening, and felt fortunate to have a job that provided real meaning to her: Caring for children in the Pediatric Cardiology Department at the Golisano Children's Hospital. But then, in 2003, she began having symptoms that were troubling to her.

Cathy Drake has been cancer free for 7 years. Read her story.

Lou Iovoli - Head and Neck Cancer

Two years ago, Lou Iovoli was on that track and had finished respectably in his first half-Ironman. “I’d spent two years working my way up to complete the half Ironman distance. Completing that first one was a great feeling. I was on a high,” said Iovoli, the father of four boys. Just 24 hours later, Iovoli was devastated to learn he had a large tumor at the base of his tongue, extending to the palate and larynx. It was Stage IV cancer.

Lou Iovoli has been cancer free for 4 years. Read his story.

Leo Murphy - Colon Cancer

Leo’s employer, SWBR Architects, has sponsored a golf tournament to support the Wilmot Cancer Center for the last 20 years. Leo never imagined that the golf fund-raiser would play a part in saving his life.

Leo Murphy has been cancer free for 5 years. Read his story.