When Evelyn White was diagnosed with Stage 4 Uterine Cancer that had metastasized to her lungs, she was terrified. “But then I embraced the fear and sadness and then suddenly felt the calm. I asked myself, ‘Who am I now that I have cancer?’ and told myself that until I am not here anymore, I am still here.

It was this attitude that enabled Evelyn to manage her cancer through surgery and chemotherapy in 2004. Now she sees Dr. Vacarello at The Zangmeister Center every six months for a check up.

“The people at The Zangmeister Center are so amazing. They can teach someone like me whose life is bent on giving to learn how to receive. It’s hard to stop and let someone else take care of you. They were very instrumental in helping me do this.”

“Whoever is at the desk is always smiling. It’s such a good environment for people who are ill; it reduces stress so much. Everyone treats you like you are special. They listen to you and respond as if you are the first person who has ever asked questions.”

During her treatment, Evelyn decided to pursue a dream she has had for years: she wanted to go to seminary school. Already a PhD, Evelyn got a Masters in Theology at Methodist Theological in Columbus, all the while she was battling cancer.

Now, cancer-free, Evelyn puts both of her degrees to work in her private counseling practice. She’s energized by her work and believes her cancer experience and time at seminary have enhanced her ability to treat her clients. “What I’ve found is that there is a yearning for meaning. As my clients heal, they become more interested in God and eternity and mattering to the greater good. My experiences have helped me guide them to their own answers.”

She’s also pursuing a Masters in Divinity but is taking her time and looking at her education as a journey. “My biggest hobby is being a student,” she laughs.

When asked about what her cancer experience has taught her, Evelyn responded, “I had lost sight of my life and the ability to stop and truly enjoy each moment. One gift cancer gave me was how to sit on the porch and watch the birds.”