Today, more than 19 years after coming to City of Hope for a life-changing second opinion, McDowell is a wife, mother, author, keynote speaker, and a tireless advocate for improving patient access to advanced cancer care like the care she receives at City of Hope Orange County.
McDowell is one of more than 18 million cancer survivors in the United States. The number of cancer survivors is projected to grow to 26 million by 2040, thanks to early detection and new treatments.
As part of one of the largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States, City of Hope Orange County is paving the way for innovations that increase the number of cancer survivors through its leading-edge research, advanced treatments and the most extensive cancer-focused clinical trials in California.
City of Hope also offers several fertility preservation options for women diagnosed with breast cancer as well as support and resources to help patients make informed decisions.
“As we look ahead to opening Orange County’s only cancer specialty hospital, we are filled with tremendous hope for the future,” said Annette Walker, president, City of Hope Orange County. “People who come to us with a small thread of hope leave us able to walk a child down the aisle, complete that college degree or to celebrate many more birthdays with loved ones.”
The cancer specialty hospital on City of Hope’s academic cancer campus in Irvine completes the most advanced, integrated cancer care network in the region.
Opening later this year, the cancer hospital will be seamlessly connected to City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center — Orange County’s most advanced comprehensive cancer center and home to world-renowned cancer specialists with unparalleled expertise.
“Had I not gone to City of Hope, I would not be here,” McDowell said. “There’s a lifesaving difference with a cancer- focused expertise.”
Top five ranked cancer care in the nation, right here in Orange County.
CityofHope.org/OC | 877-541-4673