Stories

Miracle on 32nd Street

“Hope Lodge is just a miracle… it's a marvel,” according to retired New York City police officers James and Roberta McMann of Utica, New York. The McManns believe they've experienced the power of miracles-especially after their recent stay at Hope Lodge.

James's cancer journey has been long and often intertwined with seemingly miraculous intervention. Working near the Holland Tunnel in 1982, James helped a motorist stranded with his kids. The driver-a doctor from New Jersey-wrote a note of thanks with a promise of help if James ever needed a 'cancer doctor.'

Ten years later, James was diagnosed with bladder cancer-and his wife Roberta remembered the note. Amazingly, the oncologist from New Jersey still had the same home phone. And James was connected with the doctor that saved his life.

In 2006, James felt a lump under his ear and a CT scan revealed swollen nodes. Further tests were needed, but James delayed because his only concern was caring for a brother with lung cancer. In May 2007, James was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma.

James began treatment in Utica but was dissatisfied with his medical care. The McManns identified a specialist at New York Presbyterian Hospital in New York City-four hours away from his home. In June, James started a 30-treatment chemotherapy regimen to be administered for six weeks. Roberta sought affordable lodging-a daunting and stressful undertaking. A discounted hotel would cost a thousand dollars a week-more than they could afford.

The McManns believe that Providence opened the doors to Hope Lodge New York City. “There is an atmosphere of serenity and love at Hope Lodge. The people here become your brothers and sisters and their courage and hope wash over you. And it makes you stronger,” said James.

An accomplished poet, James was so inspired by his stay at Hope Lodge, that he wrote the following poem

Sanctuary

Within the cities roaring voice Serenity sings her silent prayer Tranquil haven called “Hope Lodge” Where arms open wide with compassionate care

Stricken humans seek its door Knowing the enemy they must face Entering the confines of joy and love They are strengthened by charity's grace

Hospital treatment over, all move on Back to their lives for a new start Carrying memories of those they met Especially the staff with caring hearts

Above the metropolis chaotic noise Blessed pealing of Saint Francis bells Angelic whispers in “Hope Lodge” “Have Courage, Have Faith, You will be well”

James P. McMann July 7, 2008