10/23/2025
Barb’s Journey of Strength and Hope—
At the Bayley Wellness Center, Barb brings energy, encouragement, and joy to everyone she meets. But behind her vibrant smile is a story of incredible strength and perseverance.
Barb was just 49 years old when a routine mammogram revealed breast cancer—an unexpected diagnosis with no family history. What followed was an extraordinarily difficult journey. During surgery, she ruptured a disc in her back, leading to multiple surgeries and months of recovery. Through the pain and physical challenges, her parents moved from Columbus to care for her—a support she calls a true blessing.
Chemotherapy brought its own hardships. At one point, Barb felt so sick she considered quitting, but her doctor reminded her that stopping treatment wasn’t an option. She faced a rare and aggressive form of cancer that had spread to her lymph nodes. Despite the odds—less than a 50% chance of surviving five years—Barb pushed through, supported by family, friends, and a caring community who kept her spirits lifted with cards, calls, and encouragement.
Barb also found comfort in a weekly support group where survivors shared experiences, compared treatments, and helped one another stay hopeful. Now, 25½ years later, she continues to share her story to inspire others facing similar challenges.
“There have been so many advances in treatment since my diagnosis,” Barb says. “But what I always tell people is—never give up, stay proactive, and don’t sweat the small stuff. It’s all small stuff.”
Cheers to Barb—25 years strong and still inspiring others every day. Today, she is a Tai Chi and exercise instructor at the Bayley Wellness Center and is a wonderful friend to all.
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month and beyond, the Bayley community proudly stands beside survivors like Barb, extending our ongoing support, love, and hope to all those impacted by breast cancer—past, present, and future. 🩷
