Stories

When Michele Orrson’s husband, Ray Noll, was admitted to a hospital in Cleveland, Ohio in 1998 to begin treatment for cancer, the Lackawanna County resident was alone in a strange city. Michele and Ray had expected to spend the weekend in Cleveland for a consultation; instead, they found themselves facing a months-long stay.

After spending a few nights sleeping in a chair in Ray’s hospital room, Michele drove home to prepare for a long-term stay in Cleveland. As she made the 400-mile trip back to Ohio, Michele had no idea where she would stay while Ray was in treatment. The discounted hotel near the clinic was expensive, and she was uncomfortable arriving alone at night.

It was when she arrived back at the hospital in Cleveland that Michele was first introduced to Hope Lodge.

The American Cancer Society Hope Lodge in Cleveland gave Michele a place to stay while Ray was in treatment. It was a short walk from the hospital, provided a private room with a key, and access to laundry, computers, a gym and more—for free. Hope Lodge offered a safe place to stay while she was alone in a big city.

“Except: I wasn’t really alone. Hope Lodge gave me a built-in family—patients and fellow caregivers who watched out for me and provided immeasurable support and comfort,” said Michele. “We would meet in the various gathering locations and talk, listen, hug. We helped each other in any way we could.” 

Michele spent three months at the Hope Lodge in Cleveland. Ray was able to visit her there on a short outing from the hospital. He sat at the piano and played some of his favorite songs, and Michele knew that gave him a chance to feel like himself again.

Although Ray ultimately lost his battle with cancer, Michele was grateful for the opportunity to stay at Hope Lodge. “Those who contribute to building and maintaining the Hope Lodge facilities perform a wonderful and generous act, but I’m not sure they can ever fully understand the profound impact they have on the lives of the people who reside there,” Michele said. “For those at the lowest points in their lives, this facility will lift a financial burden and provide safety, compassion, community, and nourishment – and, of course, hope.”