A Story of Faith, Family, and Finding Wellness: Maria and Felipe’s Journey
At Wellness House, healing is not just a destination, it’s a journey walked together, side by side, in a community of care. Maria and Felipe’s story is a beautiful reflection of that truth.
Maria, a lifelong nurturer and animal lover, came to the United States from Mexico in 1986, carrying dreams of a better life. Over the years, she built a home filled with simple joys: her husband, Felipe, her children, grandchildren, and beloved pets, Sparky, Muñeka, and Michi. Her days were filled with cooking, tending to her garden, and lending a hand to anyone who needed help. “I like to think of others first,” she says. “Helping people makes me happy.”
When Maria was diagnosed with kidney cancer, followed by metastasis to her lungs, the news felt heavy but not unfamiliar. She had seen cancer before: in her mother, her sister, and her first husband. Yet, with her diagnosis, Maria chose to see not an ending, but a new chapter in her life’s story. Guided by her unwavering faith and supported by Felipe, who has been her constant companion, Maria met cancer with courage and grace.
It was her oncologist, Dr. Dalal, who first told Maria about Wellness House. After her initial treatment, Felipe turned to her and said, “Let’s go today.” And they did. From the moment they walked through the doors, greeted by the warmth of Marci and the front desk team, they knew they had found something special. “I call it a VIP club for free,” Maria says with a smile. “But it’s not the building, it’s the people. They make you feel like you belong.”
For Maria, Wellness House became a sanctuary where she and Felipe could breathe, learn, and connect. They immersed themselves in cooking classes, exercise programs, meditation, and support groups. “We’ve been given so much knowledge and love here,” she says. “We learn how to live better, eat better, and make informed, educated decisions about my treatment.”
Felipe, too, found solace and purpose in the community. After retiring to be by Maria’s side, he became her partner not only in life but in every Wellness House program. Together, they share their journey with others, offering encouragement to fellow participants and reminding everyone they meet that they are not alone.
Maria’s outlook is one of profound gratitude and positivity. “I don’t take anything for granted anymore,” she reflects. “Even a simple tortilla with a little salt—I thank God for that moment.” Each day, in her heartfelt prayers, Maria now lifts up the names of her doctors, nurses, and the Wellness House team, asking for blessings upon the people who have given her hope and strength. “They are my angels on earth,” she says. “I pray for them as much as I pray for myself.”
Through Wellness House, Maria and Felipe have not only found resources and support, but a community that feels like family. They now see themselves as ambassadors, eager to share their experience with others navigating the uncertainty of a cancer diagnosis.
“If I could tell someone just beginning their journey one thing,” Maria says, “it would be this: Trust in God, trust your doctors, and come to Wellness House. You’ll find everything you need here. And you’ll never feel alone.” t gives my children what I can’t always give them right now. And that means everything.”
