Kim

Kim was living a relatively healthy life until she began to experience stomach pains. She didn’t think anything of it at first and just continued with her daily routine until the pain worsened and she began to bleed.  “My first thought was, oh my God I hope I don’t have cancer,” said Kim.  She rushed to the closest urgent care facility, University of University of Illinois Hospital where she was first diagnosed with  Uterine cancer at the University of Illinois Hospital.  “When they confirmed that I had cancer I was in denial at first,” said Kim. “I just pretended I didn’t have it and that it wasn’t happening to me.” 

Her children were also in disbelief and weren’t sure how to react to the diagnosis. “I was afraid that having cancer would hurt my children, and it did. They didn’t take it very well, and my eldest daughter even pulled away from me.”  As a single mother of adult children Kim found it difficult to communicate about her cancer treatment and her symptoms.  “A social worker from the hospital recommended Wellness House,” recalled Kim, who took yoga classes, nutrition classes, and stress management classes at our partner location Mile Square Health Center.. “All the programs were wonderful, the people were wonderful, and I felt welcomed. Nobody judged me and they accepted me for who I am and understood what I was going through.” 

Kim also made a consultation with our Unique Boutique where she was provided wigs and hair loss consultations.  “I cried so hard when my hair started falling out. Losing my hair is what really made it hit home for me. I just couldn’t deal with it. But the lady at the wig boutique was gentle and patient with me and after I put on my wig I felt so much better,” said Kim. “Wellness House really helped us as a family,” said Kim. “All people are welcome at Wellness House.  

 “It’s a wonderful place with wonderful people who have made all the difference in my life.”