Pat Howard

Pat Howard, a Long Island, NY native was a warrior during her 15+ year fight with breast cancer. Officially diagnosed in 1993, Pat completed her series of treatments and surgery and was cancer free until 2006.
During an exam for a rib injury, cancer was found in her left lung. After her new diagnosis, she began the first of many chemo treatments for metastatic breast cancer. She trusted the expertise and guidance of her doctors at Memorial Sloan Kettering hospital. Drug therapies would work for a while, then lose their effectiveness. But Pat
never stopped fighting.
Pat and her husband Tom retired to Florida and eventually would settle in The Villages.
But they would continue to fly up to NYC to visit her doctors at Memorial Sloan Kettering while also seeing her doctors here at the Florida Cancer Specialists. A few years ago, Pat participated in a trial for potential breast cancer treatment drugs and flew up to NYC every three weeks for examination and treatment. She even spoke before the FDA in Silver Springs, MD in favor of one of the drugs in the trial as the FDA was going to withdraw it. The FDA did postpone its decision for a year but her appeal the following year was to no avail.
Over the past few years, Pat was put on a series of drugs, some more effective than others.
During this time, while continuing her treatments, Pat became a devoted volunteer with the American Cancer Society’s “Cancer Resource Center” working primarily with fundraising. Pat would put her talent as a former Art Teacher to work creating fabulous decorations and amazing environments for many successful fundraisers. Her boundless energy, enthusiasm and creativity was contagious. Our events truly were brought to life, such as our “HOLLYWOOD SPOOKTACULAR” with a red carpet, HOLLYWOOD sign, George Clooney and Marilyn Monroe! Pat kept it exciting and it was a joy working with her.
Pat was a true friend and mentor. She had grace and fortitude and inspired so many who knew her. Pat lost her battle with breast cancer September 15, 2021. But the work she supported will continue in her memory at “Angel Wigs of Hope”. Here, women who need help and support during their cancer treatments will receive it. Pat’s spirit continues to inspire those of us who were closest to her. And we will march on and work hard for this worthwhile cause…….
                     “ANGEL WIGS OF HOPE”
We love you always, dear friend.