Barbara O'Malley’s journey with cervical cancer is a powerful testament to hope, resilience and the incredible support she received from both medical professionals and loved ones. Her story highlights the profound impact compassionate care can have on the healing process.

It all began when Barbara – a busy professional, wife and mother of two boys – was diagnosed with cervical cancer after her Pap smear came back positive for abnormal cells. Her OB-GYN immediately referred her to the Aultman Cancer Center. Her treatment plan called for six weeks of chemotherapy and radiation.

"The treatment they prescribed for me didn’t result in hair loss or an overall feeling of illness, and I felt very fortunate for that," Barbara said.

Just a few months after completing her treatment, a follow-up scan revealed a mass near one of her ovaries. After consultation, specialists decided that another round of the same treatment would be the best option. Barbara finished her second round of treatment in early 2023, feeling hopeful she was in the clear.

However, in early 2024 during a routine follow-up, Barbara’s bloodwork showed an elevation of the tumor marker. A subsequent scan revealed that the mass near her left ovary was still present, indicating that further treatment was necessary.

Although the disappointment of not being in remission would have discouraged many, Barbara maintained a positive outlook and bravely faced her cancer again. This time, the chemotherapy was much more intense. “It really kicked my butt. It was difficult, and I lost all of my hair,” she said.

The path ahead was tough. The combination of chemotherapy and radiation left Barbara physically drained. Still, she remained committed to fighting the disease.

An important part of her support system was the incredible staff at the cancer center. "I haven’t met one person here who isn’t kind,” Barbara said. “I love to joke around and have fun, and you get a lot of that here. Kim Hoerger, RN, was there for every treatment from the beginning. She and Julie Miller, APRN-FNP, have my highest respect. They made all the difference during some of my hardest days."

Barbara also expresses gratitude for having a port placed before her last round of chemotherapy. “At first, I was nervous about it, but having the port made treatment much easier. The stress of worrying about whether the nurses could find a vein was gone, and not being poked every time greatly decreased my anxiety."

From the moment of her diagnosis, Barbara was surrounded by a team of healthcare professionals who not only provided expert medical care but also offered unwavering emotional support.

Her oncologists, Dr. Alton Hallum and Dr. Jacqueline Castagno, played a pivotal role in guiding her through every stage of her journey. "They took the time to explain everything in detail, sitting down at eye level with me and giving me the information I needed in terms I could understand,” said Barbara. “They were both so kind.”

Today, Barbara’s scans are clear, and she is in remission. She is completing immunotherapy treatments, has regained her strength, and her outlook on life has shifted in ways she never expected.

Barbara is deeply appreciative of the care she received at Aultman Cancer Center and Aultman Hospital.“It’s the best feeling when you know you’re surrounded by the right people and receiving the correct treatment,” she said. “I have always appreciated doctors like the ones I had, who are empathetic and understand what you’re going through – and who laugh at my jokes!”

Barbara’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right care, emotional support and inner strength, survival is possible, even in the face of setbacks.

Her gratitude for the medical professionals who helped her and the family members who stood by her is immeasurable. Through all the challenges, Barbara emerged stronger – living proof that even after multiple battles with cancer, hope and healing can triumph.