Amanda's Story: Finding Purpose After the Fight

Battling cancer a second time was hard enough—but doing it during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a six-month-old baby at home, was incredibly tough. Then, one day during treatment, a wonderful shining light walked into my infusion room. It was Susan Brill. 

Susan was a peer visitor with the Moffitt Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC), an all-volunteer group that provides feedback to Moffitt leadership, helping improve the patient experience.

Susan and I talked about our treatments. She was also a breast cancer survivor, and as it turned out, we even shared the same surgeon—someone we both adored.

Though the meeting was brief, and I’m not sure I ever saw her again in the infusion clinic, her presence mattered. It made me feel more comfortable, especially during COVID when no one could attend my treatments. I didn’t feel alone that day.

When it was suggested by a friend who worked at Moffitt that I join the PFAC group, I jumped at the opportunity. Established in 2005 to bring the patient and family perspective into everything Moffitt does, the program is dedicated to strengthening collaboration between patients, family members, and the health care team. It’s one of the many ways Moffitt aims to deliver the highest standards of safe, comprehensive and compassionate health care for all.

I continue to receive my follow-up care at Moffitt and am forever grateful for the caring team that made me feel so comfortable during such a tough time. I try to find unique ways to give back while serving in PFAC with the most amazing group of genuine humans.

Whether I am telling my story at an event or simply serving strawberry shortcakes during patient appreciation week, any opportunity to give back and make someone smile is a day well lived.

To learn more about the Patient and Family Advisory Council or share your lived experience as a patient or caregiver to make a difference, email PatientAdvisors@Moffitt.org or call 813-745-3753.