Susan Mollenkopf

“There is no doubt that cancer changes your life, but I was not willing to let cancer control my life,” says Susan Mollenkopf, City of Hope’s 2011 Ambassador of Hope Honoree. Inspired by the compassionate physicians, the promising clinical trials and the research being done in City of Hope labs, Susan believes in their mission, which is giving so many other patients hope.

In San Diego via New Orleans, Charleston, WV, and Michigan, Susan lives with her husband of 18 years, Steve, and their two daughters. Susan left her job as an employee benefits consultant after the birth of her first daughter, Katherine. After her second daughter, Claire, was born, life was active and filled with family. 

It all changed in 2008 when Susan discovered a lump in her breast and the diagnosis confirmed breast cancer, which was followed by surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Susan insisted on keeping the family routine as normal as possible, and with the love and support of her husband, daughters, family and friends was able to stay positive and focused.

Susan says she never lacked hope throughout her treatment, feeling as though she was in the best hands possible with her team.  She was fortunate to have the cancer detected early, and be treated successfully. This is what makes her feel connected to City of Hope.

“The knowledge, dedication and compassion that City of Hope demonstrates gives me hope that we are on the road to a cure,” says Susan. “What a promising name – City of Hope.”