01/11/2026
Meet Cheryl — an Advocate Health Care breast cancer survivor. Cheryl recently completed treatment at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital and was recognized as the Chicago Bears’ special guest during the Bear Down Flag Ceremony, helping to unfurl the giant flag at Soldier Field before kickoff of the NFC Wild Card Game.
With a family history of cancer, Cheryl has always prioritized annual screenings and checkups – and now she’s especially grateful for her diligence. In fall 2024, an annual mammogram detected abnormalities in her breast and lymph nodes, and a subsequent biopsy confirmed a Stage 2 breast cancer diagnosis.
Cheryl’s treatment journey involved four rounds of chemotherapy and 30 rounds of radiation under the care of oncologist Dr. Sigrun Hallmeyer and the team at Advocate Lutheran General. She also underwent surgery to remove the lump in her breast, as well as a few lymph nodes.
The road to recovery has been challenging for Cheryl, who lost her hair and nails during treatment. For months, she endured sickness and fatigue, and she continues to undergo physical therapy to rebuild her strength.
But after a grueling year, she’s celebrating the ultimate victory: Being cancer-free.
“Cheryl’s cancer journey reinforces the importance of routine screenings, early detection and comprehensive, multidisciplinary care,” Dr. Hallmeyer says. “We’re grateful to the Chicago Bears for shining a light on survivorship and providing the experience of a lifetime to such a courageous, deserving patient.”
A lifelong Chicago Bears fan, Cheryl and her family have cheered on the team for decades. She never imagined she’d get to experience a playoff game in person just a few weeks later, let alone be part of the Bear Down Flag Ceremony.
“I’m thankful for the Chicago Bears for this opportunity, and I’m especially grateful for Dr. Hallmeyer and my care team, who gave me hope when I needed it most. I couldn’t have made it through without their expert care or the support of my family.”
