Last December, Andrea experienced difficulty breathing during a holiday-themed fun run. This was highly unusual for someone who had completed a half marathon and a 10K earlier that year. A week later, she faced similar symptoms while playing with her granddaughter, prompting her to schedule a doctor’s visit.

Blood tests revealed devastating news: Andrea was facing her third cancer diagnosis in twenty-four years. This time, she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). She began treatment a week later on Christmas Day 2023. 

After four months of intensive treatment and a stem cell transplant, Andrea and her caregivers moved into Brent’s Place at Forum Fitzsimmons. This was her second stay at Brent’s Place, with her first dating back to 2017. Upon arrival, Andrea felt an immediate sense of relief. “The pantry and fridge were filled with food, which was so nice to have available right away. We had everything that was needed, and we just had to bring our personal items,” she recalled.

Andrea found solace and strength in the support provided by Brent’s Place. Conversations with our Family Support Manager, Lisa, and the sense of community during shared meals with other families in similar situations were invaluable. “Having the community meals to look forward to and meeting people who are kind of in the same situation has been really helpful. It’s comforting to know you’re not the only one here,” Andrea shared. 

Today, Andrea is preparing to head home. She looks forward to reuniting with her “village” in Colorado Springs, enjoying some solitude on her patio, and returning to her training schedule. She’s thrilled to report that she can now walk four miles at a time and has taken the leap to register for a 12k in Florida.

We are so glad we could be there for Andrea and her family during this challenging time. Faced with such adversities, everyone deserves a sanctuary to call home. Together, we can make that possible. 

Support patients like Andrea today.