A patient’s cancer care journey turned into a local purpose

A patient's cancer care journey turned into a local purpose

OLEAN, NY - The Mildred Milliman Radiation Medicine Center will look a little different for patients in the region as Olean General Hospital (OGH), a Kaleida Health facility, plans to reopen with a new state-of-the-art linear accelerator in mid-May. The new linear accelerator as well as additional updates to the radiation center marks a $4.1 million investment into the community and OGH's commitment of keeping cancer care local.

Patients will notice familiar faces, brand new equipment and aesthetic updates to the center. Alongside these enhancements, patients will also see a new face helping to provide compassionate support for those undergoing radiation therapy. Elieen Skrobacz, or as everyone knows her, "Birdie", is launching a new patient-centered initiative, Robes for Comfort. Birdie, a retired teacher, devoted wife, mother of two, grandmother and recent radiation therapy patient who underwent treatment at the Mildred Milliman Radiation Medicine Center, created the initiative provides robes to patients receiving radiation therapy.

Designed to promote comfort, dignity and confidence during treatment, "Robes for Comfort" reflects the powerful impact of the patient experience. Birdie turned her own cancer care journey into a meaningful way to support others facing cancer and undergoing radiation therapy.

Can you share a little about yourself and your journey leading up to your diagnosis?

I'm a retired teacher, married, with two daughters, a son-in-law and a new grandson. Life was moving along smoothly, and my husband and I were continuing a tradition we've had for year, which was taking our annual Christmas trip to Ohio.

During that trip in December 2024, I noticed my left nipple had inverted, which didn't seem right. Like many people, I looked it up and quickly realized I needed to see a doctor. When we returned home, I reached out to a friend who helped me get an appointment with Dr. Tahir Chauhdry. From there, things moved quickly. I was scheduled for testing within days, and after several hours of imaging and evaluation, I was told it was likely breast cancer. My husband and I were left wondering what would come next.

What went through your mind when you received the diagnosis?

My first thoughts were about my family and how this would affect them. I made a promise to myself that I would be strong, especially for my daughters. I didn't want them to see me fall apart.

At the time, my older daughter was pregnant after a long journey, and I wanted to be there for her. I was also looking forward to becoming a grandmother for the first time. I prayed a lot and focused on staying present for my family.

What was your experience like during radiation therapy?

My experience at the Mildred Milliman Radiation Medicine Center was incredible. Before treatment began, the team walked me through everything during a "dry run," explaining each step so I knew what to expect.

They were kind, patient and reassuring. The only part that made me uncomfortable was wearing the hospital gown. For me, that's when everything felt real.

I asked if I could bring my own robe, and once I started wearing it, it made a huge difference. I felt more like myself and much more at ease going into treatment.

Were there any particularly challenging aspects of radiation therapy?

I was fortunate to have a physician who had a clear plan in place from the beginning. Treatments themselves were relatively short, about 15 minutes, but emotionally, it's still a lot to process.

The care team made a big difference. They kept everything on schedule, talked with me during treatment and made sure I felt supported. That consistency really mattered.

What stood out to you most about the patient experience?

The atmosphere at the center was one of genuine care and compassion. I never felt rushed, and every question I had was answered. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed. The environment was comfortable, warm and supportive, which made a difficult experience much easier to manage.

What inspired you to create Robes for Comfort?

My family was incredibly supportive throughout my journey. One of my sisters told me there must be a reason I was going through this, and that stayed with me.

My husband and I talked often about how we could help others. One day, it clicked for me. It was the robe! Wearing my own robe during treatment made me feel comfortable and even a little confident again. People would compliment it, and it lifted my spirits.

I realized we could do that for other women, too.

Why focus on providing robes for patients?

After surgery, it can be difficult to look at your body the same way, and radiation therapy can make you feel especially vulnerable, with moments that are uncomfortable and overwhelming. For me, putting on the robe helped shift that feeling. It provided a sense of comfort, confidence and dignity during a very exposed time. It may seem like a small thing, but it changes how you feel walking into treatment and even afterward during follow-up appointments, helping you feel more like yourself.

What is Robes for Comfort, and how does it work?

"Robes for Comfort, because healing deserves dignity," is an initiative I created to help women feel supported during cancer treatment.

With the support of the Olean General Hospital Foundation, we were able to raise funds and begin purchasing robes. Each robe includes a small bird symbol placed over the heart, representing love, my nickname and my personal journey.

Any patients that are referred to the radiation center are eligible to receive a robe. I personally connect with each patient to make arrangements that's most convenient for them to directly get them a robe.

What has the response been like so far?

The response has been incredibly positive from both patients and care teams. Providers understand how important it is for patients to feel good about themselves throughout treatment and beyond. Even after treatment ends, there are many follow-up appointments. Having that robe continues to provide comfort along the way.

What does it mean to give back in this way?

It means everything. I'm not sure anyone ever feels completely "finished" with cancer, but helping others has been part of my healing.

I can relate to what patients are going through, and if they want to talk, I'm there to listen. That connection makes a difference both for them and for me.

Have any patient stories stood out to you?

One patient told me she felt less afraid going into treatment and, most importantly, that she felt beautiful wearing the robe. That's exactly what I hoped for.

I want women to feel seen as who they are, not just as patients, but as mothers, grandmothers, wives and members of their community.

How has this experience changed your perspective?

This experience has changed me. I've learned to slow down, listen more and be patient with myself. Robes for Comfort has become a part of who I am. People in the community ask about it, and many want to help.

The fact that a small donation can provide a robe and make someone feel better during treatment is powerful. It's something people can easily be part of, and it truly makes a difference.

The care I received close to home was exceptional. I'm incredibly grateful for everyone who supported me along the way, and I hope to pass that same support on to others.

The community can support Birdie's work and the "Robes for Comfort" initiative by visiting www.brmc-ogh.org/foundations/ogh/ or calling the Olean General Hospital Foundation office at (716) 375-7445.