DETROIT (WXYZ) — Getting a cancer diagnosis can be some of the most frightening news someone can get.
Besides getting quality care, hospital officials with Henry Ford Health System and are also focusing on the importance of comfort by debuting their new Brigitte Harris Cancer Pavilion in Detroit.
Even though patients are walking into the scariest moments of their life, others who were in their same position worked with the hospital to improve their experience during their fight against cancer.
“It was devastating, of course.”
Diedra Moody was 45-years-old when she was diagnosed with cancer back in 2015. She found a lump during a self-exam and was in disbelief when doctors told her she had stage three breast cancer.
“I still didn’t think it was cancer because cancer did not run in my family.”
Diedra got a second opinion at Henry Ford’s cancer institute. After two surgeries and months of chemotherapy and radiation, Deidra is cancer-free.
But her journey didn’t end there. As a survivor, she wanted to help others walking through the hospital doors. So, she joined Henry Ford’s Patient & Family Advisory Council.
“We had an opportunity to discuss what a cancer patient needed.”
That includes the beautiful artwork, comfortable chairs, food, more windows, and a huddle room where family members could get together, have a discussion or even have prayer.
Deidra and other survivors helped shape the new cancer pavilion located across the street from the main hospital in Detroit. It opened last month with Diedra ringing a symbolic bell.
“Really listened to our patients. Patients like Diedra and so many others who came and helped us in these focus groups and told us what was important to them explained Dr. Ben Movsas.
Beyond the aesthetic, hospital officials worked on providing better care for their patients.
In addition to technology that can cut down on treatments, they are also bringing specialists to the patients instead of the other way around, which could add stress.
Dr. Ben Movsas added, “Big believer that when we think about personalized medicine, we need to also keep the whole person in mind.”
Henry Ford also offers patient and caregiver support, yoga classes, and music and art therapy.
“We want those patients to be thought about that we are gifting you with this great thing, great opportunity to be somewhere really nice and in the city of Detroit,” Diedra explained.
