The ‘Good Cheer Fellowship’: How friendship became a lifeline during cancer treatment

Cancer treatment can be a challenging journey, affecting patients physically, emotionally and mentally. But for David Moffitt, support came in an unexpected way during his time as a patient at Hulston Cancer Center. 

“Treatment day in and day out, you become very observant,” says David. “In the waiting room, it didn’t take long to start noticing the same faces, sharing smiles and waves.” 

Over time, those familiar faces became more than just passing connections. David got to know their names - Carolyn Lewis, Wayne Holt and Lavon McGinnis. 

“Before we knew it, we were identifying each other by name. It became a natural connection,” says David.  

The staff at Hulston Cancer Center noticed this sprouting bond, too, and went the extra mile to schedule the group’s appointments at the same time, even though they were seeing different doctors.  

This thoughtful gesture allowed the self-titled “Good Cheer Fellowship” group to strengthen their connection. During treatments, they leaned on each other for support, discussing their physical and emotional challenges and helping one another navigate the ups and downs of their journeys. 

“We were all there for each other’s bell-ringing ceremonies, cheering each other on as we completed treatment. It was a special kind of support that I’ll never forget,” says David. 

Even as their treatments have ended, the group continues to stay connected. They wear matching “overcomer” bracelets made by Lavon’s daughter, provide updates in their group chat and meet for group lunches.

“It’s a relationship that has developed into something heartening. We’ve already shared so much - more than I ever expected,” says David. “The same goes for CoxHealth - I’ve never known a place so welcoming and caring. Every person there, in every word and action, made us feel seen and supported.”

We are so proud of our teams at Hulston Cancer Center for playing a behind-the-scenes role in fostering this bond, ensuring that our patients felt seen, cared for and encouraged during every step of their journey.

The story of the “Good Cheer Fellowship” group serves as a great reminder to all of us to lean on those around us, and to find strength and support in the meaningful connections we create.