Roseann’s Story | Skin Cancer

Defeating Skin Cancer and Protecting Life’s Most Precious Memories With Proton Therapy

When Roseann first noticed redness on her nose in 2023, her mind didn’t jump to cancer. Her doctor initially believed the irritation was harmless and recommended a face cream. But after two years of topical treatment, the redness kept returning.

Roseann celebrating with her daughters at the bridal shower.

Having previously gone through breast cancer treatment, Roseann trusted her instincts and pushed for a biopsy in November 2025. The results confirmed her growing suspicion; the redness was caused by basal cell carcinoma.

Her physician recommended Mohs surgery; a highly effective and commonly used procedure to treat skin cancer by surgically removing the cancerous skin cells. The surgery would require reconstructing the top of her nose with skin grafted from her forehead. This is a common surgical technique, but not without risk.

“It could have very likely left a large scar on my face,” Roseann said.

The timing made the decision even more difficult. Roseann and her husband, Guy, were preparing for a major family milestone: their daughter Vanessa’s wedding in June, along with bridal celebrations earlier in the spring.

Rather than undergoing a major facial surgery just months before her daughter’s wedding, Roseann sought an option that could effectively treat the cancer while allowing her to continue feeling like herself. That led her to speak with a cousin in the medical field where she learned about proton therapy at the Maryland Proton Treatment Center.

Roseann celebrating completing her treatment at MPTC’s Bell.

Unlike surgery and even traditional radiation, proton therapy offered Roseann a non-invasive treatment option designed to precisely pinpoint the cancer while minimizing radiation exposure to nearby healthy tissue. Proton therapy also targeted her cancer without leaving a mark. She began treatment in March, and on April 28, rang the bell to mark the end of her second experience fighting cancer.

This round of treatment was different, though. Roseann and Guy stayed at the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge, where patients and caregivers can stay free of charge while receiving treatment away from home. What they expected to be simply a place to stay quickly became a meaningful part of their experience. Surrounded by other patients going through cancer treatment, they found a level of understanding and support that they had not experienced before.

“The Hope Lodge is a home away from home,” Roseann said. “It’s not just a place to stay. It gave us peace of mind.” For Roseann, everyday conversations with other patients at the Hope Lodge created a sense of community and connection that made treatment emotionally easier.

Roseann posing with her count-down on MPTC’s Alumni Signature Wall.

Roseann hopes others facing similar diagnoses know they should ask questions and explore all available treatment options. For some patients with skin cancer, especially in highly visible areas like the face, proton therapy may provide an opportunity to effectively treat the cancer while helping preserve appearance and quality of life.

For Roseann and her family, that made all the difference.