Meet the Models: Malissa Wood

Malissa Wood, a survivor since 2006.

I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 43 in Dec 2006.  I was very healthy, no family history and we were a bit blindsided by the diagnosis.  I was a single Mom with four children at the time ages 6,8,10 and 12.  I am a cardiologist at MGH and see everyday the toll cancer can take on the patients and their families.  I was so impressed that my doctors and nurses spent time talking with me about the impact of my diagnosis on my family.  That really helped us get through the first few months.  It was a very scary time for us but we were overwhelmed by the love and support that literally seemed to come out of the woodwork from friends and family.  Ultimately, our family became closer and my kids realized how much little acts of kindness on the part of friends and family could help ease their concerns and give them strength.

I am proud to be a survivor and am grateful everyday for the excellent care I received and for the love and support of my family, especially my kids- Seamus, Caitlin, Sean and Ciara.