Community Surprises Local Nurse on Last Day of Cancer Treatment
January 27, 2025
As charge nurse Katie Byard descended the stairs at UM Upper Chesapeake Health’s Kaufman Cancer Center (KCC) following her last round of chemotherapy, she was met with a surprise. Below her stood dozens of team members and loved ones waiting to celebrate with her as she rang a bell, a poignant symbol of the end of her cancer treatment.
"Katie Strong"
Many people commemorating the occasion wore matching “Katie Strong” t-shirts, complete with a pink flamingo, Katie’s favorite animal. Hugs, cheerful toasts and tears of joy filled the air as everyone celebrated the momentous occasion.
“I was so surprised! ... Walking the steps of the [Kaufman] Infusion Center I saw the crowd and just started crying. My work family, friends and family have been so supportive this whole time. I feel so loved and special,” said Katie, who works in the labor and delivery unit at UM Upper Chesapeake Medical Center Bel Air’s Family Birthplace and has been with the organization since 2013.
Friends and Neighbors Helping Friends and Neighbors
Katie, a resident of Forest Hill and mother of two, was diagnosed with breast cancer on July 25. She chose the KCC partly because she wanted to be cared for by coworkers. But she also chose it because of her past experiences with UM Upper Chesapeake Health.
“I went for previous mammograms … I knew I wanted my treatment with their team,” said Katie, who was treated by Julie Woods, MD, among others. “It's close to home, and everyone from the unit clerk at check-in to the doctors is so friendly and organized. It's so nice to have your whole team under one roof.”
The Kaufman Cancer Center offers advanced cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation and infusion. The center’s team members are driven by the difference they make in the lives of their patients. Inspired by those they care for; they remain dedicated to offering the community hope and healing during challenging times.
“From the moment I met Katie, she was determined to be an advocate for herself, and we immediately set a plan for her care,” said Dr. Woods, a Hematologist Oncologist at the KCC and Katie’s primary provider throughout her cancer care. “Chemotherapy can, at times, be a challenge, and Katie met that challenge with such positivity and strength. It has been a privilege to be part of her journey.”
Between all the appointments with doctors and treatments, having cancer has been “like a full-time job,” Katie said. “But I’ve learned to embrace living and to appreciate what matters most.”
Hope and Resilience in Challenging Times
“It was freeing” to finally ring the bell, Katie said. “I was counting down the days for my last chemo treatment.”
Katie’s advice for anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer: “Don't let your diagnosis take away your spirit. Nobody wants to have chemo but make the best of it. Bring a good book, take someone with you who makes you feel good, go in with positive thoughts and that you are taking charge of your health”.
“The nurses are amazing and will become your family and one day you too will be finished with that step,” she said.
