I was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2019. Of course, the diagnosis changed my life. I am so thankful though that Ms. Westanmo was there to help me along the path. The cancer "machinery" at hospitals is so impersonal, rapid, and automatic. As I was leaving the MRI table and the radiologist was telling me the surgeon was my next stop, I felt like I was stepping into another world. Surgery?! Wasn't there someone who just discussed the process first?? And my surgeon was as cold and impersonal as a fish. Competent surgeon, but definitely not a people person! Thank goodness Ms. Westanmo is a people person. She was a life raft in a tide that was sweeping me along. She went above and beyond. She discussed the process and helped me find research articles.

Over the next few weeks, we discussed treatment options, medicines, and alternative therapies. Katie is a friend to the cancer patient. She was still at my side this year as I tried to get my first mammogram. She sliced through the VA administration and obtained an appointment for me. She has interceded so many times trying to get Tricare to pay for my out-of-state bills. The facilities here won't even call the VA. So Katie had to unravel the ball of administrative red tape! The two VA contract companies made things more complicated. If only more people knew of great VA people like Katie! Sure, the VA has problems. But superb people like Katie rise above those problems and provide a helping hand to those of us who need it. I can't say enough about how her efforts have helped and encouraged me. As they say in the Navy- Kudos to Katie! Job well done!