Sometimes the strongest bonds form in the simplest moments, like a conversation after a fitness class. That’s how a meaningful friendship began between Suzette Zawisza, a therapy program manager with Concept Rehab, and Barb Richards, an Ohio Living Swan Creek villa resident. What started as shared understanding has grown into a monthly cancer support group that is already offering comfort and connection to residents and families.
Suzette first met Barb while leading a strength and balance course for independent living residents shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, Suzette was a year into her breast cancer journey and visibly undergoing treatment. After one class, Barb gently pulled her aside to share that she had recently completed her own breast cancer treatment. Over the next few months, Barb checked in on Suzette every week. Their conversations became a place to celebrate progress and feel truly understood.
As their bond grew, they attended programs together at The Victory Center, a Toledo nonprofit offering free services for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers. These services include massage therapy, Reiki, reflexology, facials, counseling and a free wig bank. Their offerings can be found at thevictorycenter.org.
Feeling inspired, and with the support of Ohio Living Swan Creek chaplain, Jason Semans, Suzette and Barb recently launched a monthly cancer support group on campus. The group is open to anyone touched by cancer, including those in treatment and individuals walking alongside a friend or family member. The aim is to give participants a safe space to share their experiences, including the ongoing fears that can remain even after remission.
In her 26 years of working in the Toledo area, Suzette shared the Ohio Swan Creek community is the most empowering she has been part of, thanks largely to the compassion and strength of its residents. Barb may not have been her patient, but she became something far more meaningful: a friend who lent support.
“It takes both faith and friendship to make it through the difficult moments of a cancer journey,” Suzette emphasized. “Having someone who truly understands can change everything.”
For more information about Ohio Living Swan Creek's monthly cancer support group, contact Chaplain Jason at 419.865.4445.