Friends Find a Home at the Salt Lake City Hope Lodge

Long-time friends Irma McCoy and Evelyn Ealy first met in the 1980s when their daughters played on the same softball team. They never imagined that one day their paths would lead them to the Salt Lake City Hope Lodge® while they were both being treated for a form of blood cancer.

When Irma first started experiencing health issues in December 2023, including fatigue and shortness of breath, the last thing on her mind was a potential cancer diagnosis. However, in March of 2024, she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia and started treatment. In May of that same year, Evelyn, who had no symptoms, was shocked to learn that she had the same diagnosis as her friend.

“I was very surprised. I knew we were going through some of the same issues, but had no idea they would end up being the same form of cancer,” Evelyn said.

Cancer Journeys, Together 

Their treatment journeys followed a similar path. Both women underwent further testing with bone marrow biopsies followed by chemotherapy in Las Vegas, where they live with their families. As their treatment plans progressed, both of their doctors recommended a stem cell transplant as the next step. Fortunately, both found matching donors, and both transplants were scheduled for November 2024 in Salt Lake City, requiring a 30-day hospital stay. After the procedure, Irma and Evelyn were placed in hospital rooms right next to each other.

“That was a lifesaver,” Evelyn said. “We could depend on each other.”

Transplants can also be hard emotionally. For Evelyn and Irma, their post-transplant care required being in the hospital for a few weeks, isolated from others to help prevent any infections. They both had a high risk of side effects. Being away from home was difficult, but they found solace in each other’s company. Although their families frequently made the trip from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City, Irma and Evelyn continued to lean on their friendship for support.

“I don’t know if we would have made it if we had been by ourselves,” Evelyn admitted. “This experience has deepened our relationship.”

Home Away from Home

Even after their initial hospital stay, they required continued outpatient treatment and were advised to remain in Salt Lake City for at least 100 more days. Fortunately, the Salt Lake City Hope Lodge provided them with a home away from home during this challenging period.

American Cancer Society Hope Lodge communities help cancer patients access vital treatment when it’s far from home. With a typical cancer treatment regimen lasting six to eight weeks, travel and lodging can skyrocket the cost of care. Lodging alone can cost up to $17,000. Hope Lodge communities offer patients and caregivers a free home away from home closer to cancer care, thanks to donations from generous individuals, organizations, and corporations to the American Cancer Society.

“It would cost a fortune to stay here [in Salt Lake City] for ongoing treatment. My grandkids can’t believe I’m staying somewhere so nice,” Evelyn said.

Hope Lodge became a crucial source of comfort for both women and their families. “It’s absolutely wonderful,” Irma said. Irma passes the time by reading and watching movies, while Evelyn enjoys watching basketball. Both friends make sure the other gets to appointments and follows their doctor’s orders, including getting regular exercise.

“I’ve always prided myself on being independent, but I’ve learned that’s not entirely true. It’s wonderful to have someone ask, ‘How are you?’ or ‘Do you need anything?’” Irma said.

Looking Ahead

Now back home, Irma and Evelyn are looking ahead with optimism. They are grateful for their friendship, their health, and the unexpected place that brought them even closer together.