Drain for the Cure Stories
See how cancer has affected the lives of those around us and how Drain for the Cure is supporting the fight against cancer.
Amy's Story
Retired Auburn High School teacher, Amy Phalen, shared her story and how cancer has impacted her life. She is so happy to support the efforts of Drain for the Cure to fight this disease.
Lori & Rachel's Story
Doug Baker, father of Lori and Rachel, shared his daughters' cancer stories and how Drain for the Cure was formed in part to continue Lori's mission.
Allyn's Father's Story
Allyn Edwards, a Springfield Plastics' employee, shares his father's cancer story and why Drain for the Cure means a lot to him.
Doug's Story
Cancer survivor Doug Shipley shares why he chose John Stoddard Cancer Center for his treatment.
Katie's Story
Katie is a 30-year-old who loves being outdoors and challenges herself through extreme sports like snow skiing, mountain biking, ultra-running, and climbing. In the spring of 2022, Katie was diagnosed with a grade 3 anaplastic astrocytoma, a tumor on her brain.
She traveled to Des Moines to be treated at John Stoddard Cancer Center and used the Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) program.
“Having a cancer diagnosis at a young age has changed my outlook on life,” Katie said. “I felt a lot of pressure to recover because of my age, and AYA helped me acknowledge and talk about the emotions of starting treatment and how to look at the future with a respect I didn’t before.”
“You supported me through a traumatic and isolating part of my life and made it as comfortable as possible," Katie added. "I’ll always be grateful for you."
Robert's Story
Lisa Newby shares her father Robert's story and how she got involved in Drain for the Cure.