Finding Strength in Community: North Oaks Oncology Social Brings Hope and Connection

Cancer changes everything, but it doesn’t have to take away your sense of connection.

Recently, the E. Brent Dufreche Conference Center at North Oaks Diagnostic Center was transformed into a place of laughter, support and shared strength as patients and caregivers came together for the annual North Oaks Oncology Social.

Sponsored by North Oaks Health System and hosted by Dr. Georges Tanios of North Oaks Hematology & Oncology, the social is a reminder that cancer care is about more than medicine. It’s about community, compassion and hope.

Designed to offer a break from the weight of a diagnosis, the evening invited guests to unwind over refreshments, enjoy lively trivia and door prizes, and share meaningful conversations with others going through similar experiences.

Why Community Matters in Cancer Care

For Virginia Baiamonte, an 83-year-old breast cancer survivor, gatherings like the oncology social are a bright spot in her journey. Virginia has faced multiple surgeries over decades and recently underwent radiation for skin cancer.

“This is nice. You get to meet people, and you’re not alone,” she shares.

For Paul Bartow, attending the social was about meeting others who understand.

“Dr. Tanios invited us,” he mentions. “I thought it would be nice to meet other people who are in the same situation or similar.”

Turning Pain into Purpose

Clifford McDaniel, who was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2023, knows firsthand how isolating treatment can feel. After months of chemo and radiation, he is now 15 months in remission. Clifford admits the road wasn’t easy.

“At first, I was a mixture between scared and angry, but the staff and doctors were good about calming my nerves,” he reflects. “I've been in a lot of situations in my life that I've put myself in, but I have never been scared like I was when I got diagnosed with cancer.”

Today, Clifford uses his experience to help others.

“I think maybe my reason for surviving cancer is to help others who are either in the journey or about to start. … Just being able to say, ‘Hey, it’s a terrible disease, but look at me,’” he explains. “Look at where I was before and where I am now.”

His biggest piece of advice?

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Use your resources, especially the ones from palliative care,” Clifford notes.

“And if you’re a throat cancer patient—get a feeding tube early,” he adds. “It’ll make things easier, and you will be thankful that you did.”

A Shared Mission of Hope

Whether sharing a laugh over trivia questions or heartfelt conversations, the oncology social reminded everyone that healing happens in community. These moments of connection are as vital as medical treatment, offering strength and hope when they’re needed most.

North Oaks Hematology & Oncology is dedicated to providing expert care and compassionate support to anyone affected by cancer or blood disorders. Learn more here.