2019 Report to Our Community l 5 oncology For most of her adult life, Mary Bock of Temple had a fear of doctors and hospitals. “I struggled with any kind of medical procedure—even something as simple as an exam. Needless to say, that meant that I neglected my health for many years.” After finally mustering the courage to see a doctor, Mary’s worst fears came to light. In December 2016, she was diagnosed with endometrial cancer, also known as uterine cancer. Determined to fight with everything she had, Mary had her surgery performed at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, and eight weeks later, started chemotherapy at Monadnock Community Hospital. “It took only one visit to the Oncology and Infusion Therapy Center to give me the warm, welcoming, and confident feelings that last to this day,” says Mary. “So many people have to travel long distances to get this kind of care.” At MCH, Mary was under the care of hematology oncologist, Dr. Robert Pritchard. “Dr. Pritchard is a wonderful doctor who always encouraged me to ask questions. He also has a great sense of humor, which is so welcome when you face these kinds of challenges.” With her cancer now in remission, Mary looks back fondly on her experience at MCH. “The compassion and professionalism of every single staff member was unfailing. I’ve told friends and family that it was like swimming in an ocean of love. That may sound corny, but every single visit exceeded my expectations. To this day, when I drive into the parking lot at MCH, I get a big smile on my face.” cancer care close to home Patient Mary Bock (center) with Oncology and Infusion Therapy Center staff members (left to right) Maria Brown, Medical Assistant; Michelle Christmas, Office Assistant; Patrick Sullivan, RN; and Sue Jackson, RN, Clinical Nurse Manager