Can you imagine the challenge of knowing you have cancer and your only treatment is over an hour away and you have no way to get there? This was exactly the situation with Marilyn Schneider.

Diagnosed with cancer three years ago, Marilyn had surgery in La Crosse and required 28 radiation treatments. Living in McGregor, IA, this was definitely a feat to overcome. Her daughter was willing to help, but the hour each way plus the time for the treatment extended far beyond her hour lunch break. Taking that much extra time off from work was a lot to ask from any employer, especially the Post Office during their busy holiday season.

“How am I going to do this?” she began asking herself as well as her friends. In doing so, a friend suggested that she get a hold of Faith in Action to help her out.

“They are wonderful and helpful,” Marilyn said about her experience with Faith in Action. “I set up an appointment and my friend was right, they treated me so good.”

Responding to her needs, Faith in Action informed her that they would do everything they could to ensure that she made all of her the appointments on time. This was a critical factor, seeing that if she was late for any of the appointments, she would lose her treatment and be forced to drive up again for it at a later date. “It was such a relief for me and my daughter,” she explained. “I never missed one treatment.”

“What had started out as such a low point in my life, turned into the most spiritual time of my life. We formed a lasting friendship that I will never forget. It is a wonderful organization. We are so lucky to have an organization like this here in the Prairie du Chien area.”

When asked what she would tell others about Faith in Action, she said, “Don’t hesitate to ask for help. I was scared but I knew I needed help.”

Marilyn’s health has since improved and as of her last check up, a few weeks ago, she is in remission.

Faith In Action is a non-profit organization that brings together volunteers of all ages, from area congregations, organizations and the community to help older adults improve their quality of life and remain independent for as long as possible. Please call 608-357-2361 or 888-340-6582 toll free for more information.