Inspirational Stories

Here's a truly inspiring story about a lymphoma patient and his treating physician who discovered in the midst of treatments last year that they shared a bond as former national champion ballroom dancers – and how the special connection affected his care.

The patient, Steve Valentine, was unsure whether he would survive the late-stage Burkitt lymphoma that was attacking his body. Earlier this summer, Steve celebrated his hard-fought victory over the disease by performing an emotional ballroom dance performance with his oncologist Dr. Irene Hutchins before a cheering audience of fellow cancer survivors and family members.

The surprising and serendipitous discovery of their special connection quickly led to a bedside pact to dance together once. Steve was cancer free and back on his feet. The promise lifted Steve’s spirits during his darkest hours and gave him something to work toward.

The journey came full circle recently in an incredible emotional moment when Steve and Dr. Hutchins, performed to the disco classic “I Will Survive” in front of an audience at Scripps Green Hospital in La Jolla, Calif.