For her birthday this week, Sharon Stringer decided that instead of enjoying a treat, she was going to bake one to share. She tackled the project in the Kathy’s House kitchen, baking four of her favorite lemon blueberry poundcakes for staff at Kathy’s House and Froedtert Hospital. Sharon was wrapping up her second stay just before turning 63. “I didn’t think I’d make it to 62!” she said, smiling while sharing her age.

With care from the team at the MCW LaBahn Pancreatic Cancer Program, Sharon is now feeling ready to embrace the years ahead. She finished radiation just a day before leaving for home in Cocoa Beach, Florida, joyfully ringing the bell to signal the end of treatment.

She’s grateful that Kathy’s House could play a part in her journey.  “Having a safe, comfortable place to stay” was so important, she says. “And it saves us money to stay here too. Every dollar counts when you’re going through treatment like this.” Flights to Milwaukee were expensive, but she was able to save on a rental car, knowing the shuttle could take her to the hospital and the grocery store when it was too cold to walk.  She loves to cook, and preparing meals helped her feel at home and stay healthy during her stay.

The highlight, she says, was the connections. “Meeting other patients and caregivers here has been incredible. I’ve made good friends that I still keep in touch with.” As Sharon heads home, her story captures what so many guests describe—a sense of comfort, connection, and hope that continues long after they leave.