Wanda Wooten spends her Tuesdays as a hospital volunteer in oncology. In February of 2005, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and was treated here at UNC under the guidance of Dr. Linda Van Le.
She recalls breaking down in tears one day while in the infusion room and being comforted by one of the nurses… “She put her arms around me and just held me. She didn’t have to say a word. All the nurses were that way. They were all so compassionate.”
Finishing her treatments in November of 2005, Dr. Van Le gave Wanda the good news. She was cancer free. In describing her doctor, Wanda says, “I was in good hands. She put me at ease and has become a friend.” Grateful for the wonderful care and compassion she received while in treatment, Wanda was overwhelmed with a desire to give back. Today, still cancer free, she pushes a hospitality cart offering coffee, tea and cookies to oncology patients. “I knew then and I still know today that I cannot take away their pain or fear, but the hospitality coffee and tea service opens the door to show compassion, to listen to their stories and to offer comfort. Sometimes, I don’t need to say a word… just hold their hand, give them a warm blanket or put my arms around them.” It’s emotional, Wanda says, “but words cannot express how rewarding it is to feel that in some small way you have helped someone get through, yet, another day of treatment.”