Dear Dr. Peterson and Dr. Blaes,

I am writing to you both to extend my deepest gratitude for caring for my mom, Tracy, and treating her cancer while she was your patient.

It was shortly after my first birthday that my mom was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Although I was too young to fully comprehend that my mom was very sick, I now know that her recovery and well-being are because of your dedication to her care. I listen to my mom speak so highly of you and how you gave her the calm, hope, and strength that she needed to fight through even the most difficult moments.

Dr. Peterson, my mom has been in remission for more than 18 years. Because of your expertise and commitment to your patients, I have had the invaluable gift of having my mom in my life as I grew up. 

My mom is truly my best friend and she has always been my biggest supporter. She never missed a dance class, a soccer game, or an opportunity to volunteer at my school. She was there to help me get ready for prom, cheered me on as I crossed the stage for my high school graduation, and encouraged me as I set off for college. She was there for me in good times and brought me comfort and guidance through the difficult ones. My mom approaches all things in life with such positivity and optimism, which has guided me through many aspects of my own life, much like how you guided her through her treatments.

Dr. Blaes, it is because of you and your dedication to cancer research that my mom is thriving as a cancer survivor. We know that she is not alone in her post-cancer journey. You have guided her through unexpected situations, both physical and emotional, after her cancer treatment and have given her many resources for survivorship support. In addition to being an inspiration to my mom, your commitment and dedication to cancer research and survivorship has also inspired me to become more involved in cancer research and helping to find a cure.

Thank you for being my mom’s superheroes and thank you for making it possible for her to be mine. The impact you have had on our family’s lives cannot be described in words. I am eternally grateful for all you have done and all you continue to do!

— 20-year-old Madi Elliott in a letter to Bruce Peterson, MD, and Anne Blaes, MD, the M Health Fairview doctors who cared for Madi’s mom, Tracy Wilson