Published on Jul. 8, 2026
Nine years ago, Coto de Caza resident Susan Smoler heard the word “cancer”—and everything changed. In that moment, fear and uncertainty took hold. But what followed was a journey of strength, resilience and healing. Susan turned to MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center, where she found not only advanced medical cancer care but also a compassionate team ready to support her every step of the way. From the beginning, she knew she wasn’t facing cancer alone.
Philanthropic support not only provides patients like Susan with advanced cancer treatments close to home, but also offers guidance from a cancer navigator throughout their cancer journey.
After Susan learned she had breast cancer, her cancer navigator helped her understand her diagnosis, discussed next steps and scheduled doctors’ appointments for her. Thanks to generous donations, cancer navigators are available to help guide overwhelmed patients through their entire treatment process.
Susan’s treatment plan included surgery and visits to the Meiklejohn Radiation Oncology Center at the MemorialCare Cancer Institute and Damsker Family Pavilion.
Today, she’s a survivor, celebrating life through art with her granddaughter—an everyday moment made possible by extraordinary care. That level of care is fueled by philanthropy.
“There’s a saying I like– that we’re not put on this earth to see through each other. We’re here to see each other through. I can’t repay them enough for the treatment they gave me and the kindness they bestowed on me.”
- Susan Smoler
Because of generous donors, patients like Susan receive more than treatment—they receive hope, dignity and the support they need to heal.