Meet the Models, NYC: Joelle Uyeda

Joelle Uyeda’s breast cancer journey quite literally took her across the country. After a diagnosis in her home state of Hawaii, her best friend insisted she send her records to Sloan Kettering in NYC. After it was clear that team was more prepared to assist her in treatment, Joelle’s friend graciously opened her home so that Joelle could receive treatment at Sloan.

A single mother, Joelle and her son flew to NYC where she had “the most amazing simplistic experience. The team there coordinated everything.” A double mastectomy and removal of 16 lymph nodes was followed by a clinical trial where radiation was condensed into five days. It was a blessing, since Joelle’s father, who entered hospice just before she left Hawaii, had passed and she wanted to make it back in time for the services.

Obviously an incredibly hard time of her life, Joelle remains upbeat about that period for her and her son saying, “I recovered so well, besides my drains. Part of my philosophy was to get up every morning and get dressed and aim to do at least one thing. My son and I were able to explore the city and take in that time together. When I look back, I look at the positive things- when else do you get to go live in NYC for two months? It was fun.”

She credits her best friend, who so graciously opened her home, as the ultimate support system. Getting emotional when speaking about it, she is quick to note she’ll be dancing the runway in honor of that friendship and generosity. She also notes how amazing her son’s school was, working with her to ensure he was able to leave for four weeks and still keep up in school. In all, Joelle’s story is a reminder of the power of community and support.