By Marissa Sweger, Communications Intern at Vickie’s Angel Foundation
In January 2023, Patrick Donnelly, 57, a husband and devoted father of three, received life-altering news. He was diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer at Cancer Care Associates of York. This news devastated his family, but Patrick was determined to fight, supported by his family, faith, medical team, and Vickie’s Angel Foundation. His story is truly one of strength.
In late February, Patrick began chemotherapy and radiation treatments, but the chemo lowered his immune system, leading to an infection. After developing necrotizing fasciitis and the amputation of his right ring finger, the doctors decided to stop his chemotherapy after four rounds and focus on fighting the infection. Patrick endured a week's stay in the hospital, where he continued his radiation. Despite these setbacks, he completed radiation by the end of March, and his doctors scheduled his surgery for June 8, Patrick’s birthday, a date he now calls his “rebirth day.”
On the day of his esophagectomy, Patrick’s doctors found food remnants in his stomach, leading to a week-long liquid diet and a rescheduling of the surgery. The next attempt still found food that hadn’t been evacuated. His doctors were losing hope that he’d be able to have a successful surgery; however, on July 6, after a nine-hour operation, the surgery was a success.
“Between God’s will, the abilities of my medical team, and the prayers and support of my family and friends, here I am,” he reflected.
Despite the long road to recovery, Patrick beat the odds, which initially gave him only a 20% chance of survival. He was more determined now than ever to keep fighting for his family, but the financial strain became overwhelming. His wife reduced her work hours to care for him, and though Cancer Care of York helped provide them with temporary financial help, the bills continued to mount.
By August 2023, Patrick's unemployment benefits had expired. Although his previous employer had assured him, he could return when ready, he was refused work due to concerns that he could perform the tasks, based on his appearance. With no income and bills backing up by the day, he felt lost with no clear path forward.
That’s when the Donnelly’s were introduced to the Vickie’s Angel Foundation. They helped cover their mortgage and car payments and gave the family peace of mind while Patrick applied for disability. “They saved us from what would have most likely been us losing our home and gave us new inspiration to fight a new fight,” he said.
The support of Vickie’s Angel Foundation gave Patrick the strength and energy to keep fighting. His family could stay in their home, and his kids could remain in their school. He
was able to get his disability approved in only 33 days, when the process usually takes four to five months. “The people at the disability office couldn’t believe how fast I was able to get approved because I was so persistent and fought,” he recalled.
In October of 2023, Patrick attended and spoke at the annual Vickie’s Angel Walk. “I felt honored and blessed to tell my story in front of all these people who had been helped, were currently being helped, or were the helpers,” he said, remembering his journey.
Today, Patrick is 14 and a half months in remission. His doctors told him that if the cancer doesn’t come back within 21 months, 95% of people don’t get it again. Every day is a new challenge, but Patrick remains hopeful. “Every hammer that dropped was a new low. How much darker can the future look? Then Vickie’s Angels came— we couldn’t have asked for more from them.”