Survivor Stories
#POWERofONE
Every minute, one woman is diagnosed with cancer in the United States.
That’s one mother. One daughter. One wife.
These are the stories of women who have fought cancer. They give us hope.
Danielle O’Banion – Cancer Survivor
Danielle O’Banion – Cancer Survivor We first spoke to Danielle about her cancer journey back in January 2018. You can read more about that below. Danielle is currently a women’s basketball coach at Loyola University Maryland. She is also a cancer survivor and thriver. We’re happy to report that in May of 2025, Danielle will
Sophie Hefner – Cancer Survivor
Sophie Hefner – Cancer Survivor Sophie was living her dream of playing Division I soccer at UNC Asheville, in the best shape of her life, about to embark on her senior year of college, when suddenly, she felt out of shape. As a student-athlete, that didn’t seem quite right. Sophie was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic
Lisa Fortier – Cancer Survivor
Lisa Fortier – Cancer Survivor Self-proclaimed mom, wife, daughter, sister, and believer. Lisa Fortier is entering her 11th year as the Women’s Basketball Head Coach at Gonzaga University. Through the years, she’s gone up against some formidable foes on the court, and now she’s battling cancer. Lisa was diagnosed with stage 2-3 breast cancer this
Pam Monk – Cancer Survivor
Pam Monk – Cancer Survivor Pam Monk is a devoted NC State fan, so much so that even after moving out of state, she never misses a basketball game. Her connection to NC State runs deep, having once served as the Media Relations Director for the women’s basketball team, where she made lasting memories working
Samantha Huge – Cancer Survivor
Samantha Huge – Cancer Survivor Has anyone ever told you their cancer diagnosis was a gift? That’s what Samantha Huge told us. We had to know more and after hearing her story, it was too inspiring not to share! Samantha’s journey with cancer started at the age of four, when she lost her mother to
Naida Rutherford – Cancer Survivor
Naida Rutherford – Cancer Survivor Naida has a passion for helping people understand the importance of cancer screenings and why you should get them regularly. When you read about her cancer journey, you’ll understand why. When Naida turned 41, she decided it was time to get the standard recommended mammogram, and it wasn’t a minute
Holly Hernandez – Cancer Warrior
Holly Hernandez – Cancer Warrior We get to meet and connect with so many strong, incredible women in our line of work. This is a story about one of those women, Holly Hernandez. Holly’s story is one of resilience and perseverance and a connection to the Kay Yow Cancer Fund that started with a pair
Lori Tolson – Cancer Survivor
Lori Tolson – Cancer Survivor Lori is a long-time supporter and fan of NC State Women’s Basketball, who witnessed Coach Kay Yow’s battle with cancer firsthand. So in 2021, when she noticed her appetite had changed significantly, she decided to do a little digging to find out what was going on. After several doctor visits
WORDS TO LIVE BY
We have little or no control over what happens to us in life, but we have 100% control over how we will respond."
