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Stories of Hope Stories of Hope are written by people whose lives have been affected by Thymoma. It is our wish that these experiences of diagnosis, surgery and treatment will be useful. We hope that you will be informed, empowered and inspired by their stories. If you would like to share a story of hope, please create it as a Word document and e-mail your story to thymomahope@rcn.com.
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Michelle's Story: I was born in 1969 — a native of Massachusetts, now living in Manchester, New Hampshire. Living with Thymoma since December 1999 has encouraged me to put things into perspective and to live more frequently by the tired but true adage, "life is too short." Life is too short to complain, too short to be impatient, too short to worry, too short to miss opportunities to experience and enjoy. 
Pat's Story: My name is Pat Sclafani. I was born in 1961, am married and the father of two beautiful daughters. As I reflect back to my diagnosis in March 2006, I can say with absolute certainty that it has been an amazing experience. Being diagnosed with a stage 4 Thymoma has been the worst but also best experience of my life. 
Ryan's Story: My name is Rochanna Thomas. I would like to share this story on behalf of my daughter, Ryan Jessica Walker, who died of Malignant Thymoma. Her story is a sad story, but when you read it, hopefully you will come away with a better sense of how to be aware of the symptoms of this disease and how to advocate for a treatment and cure. 
Judy's Story: My name is Judith Wilson. I was born in 1957 and reside in Warwick, Rhode Island. In the winter of 2009 I had my first surgery for thymoma. I am grateful to be under the care of the wonderful doctors and staff at MGH. I am also thankful to Michelle Cadorette and her family for starting the Thymoma Fund at MGH and making the first Thymoma Tissue Bank in the world possible. Working together to raise money for research we can help find new treatments, a possible cure, and hope for the future. 
Bill's Story: You may have seen me as part of the group at the Mother’s Day Purple Ribbon Run in Bow, NH. I was one of many wearing a t-shirt with the slogan The IncrediBILLs and a mask given to me as a surprise just before the race. I am Bill, born in 1967, married with three spirited children and humbled by the support of my family and friends. My journey with thymoma, and therefore to the race, began at the end of April 2011.