Dana Howell-Perkins knows the weight of the word “cancer.” Her father was diagnosed with cancer years ago.

“When you hear the 'C' word, it’s a scary time," she says. "There’s so much uncertainty. You automatically feel like it's a death sentence. My passion, what drives me, is for people to know that is not the case.

Howell-Perkins was by her father’s side throughout his entire journey, from doctors’ visits to treatments. Her unwavering support made a huge impact on his life.

Now, four years later, he’s a survivor. In honor of her father and their journey, Howell-Perkins has dedicated her life to supporting others facing similar battles. It’s a mission she fulfills daily working at the Lindig Family Cancer Resource Center at Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center, a place devoted to guiding cancer patients through every step of their journey.

“As the center’s oncology wellness coordinator, I’m dedicated to creating and overseeing programs that truly support our cancer patients and survivors,” says Howell-Perkins. “It’s my mission to ensure that each person who comes through our doors feels cared for, understood, and empowered throughout their journey.”

Photo courtesy of Memorial Hermann

The center provides comprehensive programs and resources, including education and emotional and spiritual support, available to all cancer patients, survivors, and families, regardless of where they receive treatment.

"No one should feel alone on their journey, and we want everyone to know that," Howell-Perkins says. "Our goal is to create a supportive, nurturing community. We’re here to walk alongside patients and their loved ones every step of the way, ensuring they have the resources and support they need."

The center had to pause in-person programs during the COVID-19 pandemic, but despite that has come back stronger than ever. Not only did it reopen for in-person classes, but it also ramped up — more than doubling — its available programs. Some of the programs include cancer transition classes that support patient transitioning from treatment, creative art classes, low-impact aerobics, nutrition classes, counseling, and yoga.

"Our yoga instructor is not only a yoga therapist but also a cancer survivor. She can truly understand how our guests are feeling. She teaches techniques like guided meditation and deep stretches to relieve stress,” says Howell-Perkins.

In addition to classes, the center offers wig fittings and provides scarves for patients. "We have a cranial wig prosthesis specialist with advanced training and expertise, allowing her to tailor each wig to the specific needs of our guests, especially those with sensitive scalp," says Howell-Perkins. "She expertly shapes and frames the wigs to perfectly suit each individual, helping them feel both comfortable and confident."

Photo courtesy of Memorial Hermann

There’s much more planned as Howell-Perkins works to continue growing the center and its programs to fulfill its mission. After all, this is her life’s work.

"This position is not a job; it's a lifestyle. Every day is a new opportunity to inspire, to encourage, to help, to uplift," says Howell-Perkins. "We want to make sure that no one feels as though they're fighting cancer alone. That is our mission."

For more information on the Lindig Family Cancer Resource Center, go online or call 713-242-2848.