Roman W.

Roman embodies the spirit of gratitude and service that defines CanCare's most dedicated volunteers. As a 2 time cancer survivor, Roman was recently named CanCare'sVolunteer of the Year for his faithful weekly visits with patients at Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center at The Woodlands.

Roman's commitment to volunteering stems from a promise he made to himself during his own cancer journey. "I made a commitment to myself when I had cancer that if I survived, I would give back because so many people helped me," he explains. This personal vow has translated into years of dedicated service, bringing hope and encouragement to countless patients facing their own cancer battles.

What makes Roman's volunteer work particularly meaningful is his ability to connect with patients on a deep level. Having experienced cancer twice himself, he understands the full range of emotions that come with a cancer diagnosis and treatment journey. His presence in the cancer center provides patients with someone who is both relatable and identifiable—a living example of survival and hope.

Roman finds profound personal fulfillment in his volunteer work, particularly in those moments when patients recognize that he's also walked the cancer path. "It feeds my spirit when a patient recognizes that you've had cancer also and I can see in their eyes that the conversation is going well and is giving them hope. It takes me back to that moment of feeling uplifted from the people that were praying for me at a time when I was at my lowest."

The partnership between CanCare and Houston Methodist The Woodlands demonstrates the powerful impact that trained volunteers can have within a healthcare setting. Roman's weekly presence in the cancer treatment areas offers patients an ear to listen, a kind word to uplift, and when appropriate, personal stories that provide tangible hope for the future.

When asked about how CanCare impacted his life... It feeds my spirit when a patient recognizes that you've had cancer also and I can see in their eyes that the conversation is going well and is giving them hope. It takes me back to that moment of feeling uplifted from the people that were praying for me at a time when I was at my lowest.

My words to pass along to anyone facing cancer... If I survived cancer twice, there is hope for you too. So many people helped me during my journey, and now it's my turn to give back. You don't have to face this alone—there are people who understand exactly what you're going through and want to walk alongside you.