Victory in the Valley, Inc.

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THE HISTORY OF VICTORY IN THE VALLEY

In 1982, Lois Joy Thomi was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer. At that time, she was told by her doctor that she probably had only 6-8 weeks to live, but they would begin radiation, then surgery and then chemotherapy. Lois survived her cancer and was a survivor for 31 years. Her story is truly inspiring as it reveals the exciting way that something good and beneficial to others can be created as a result of some of the most difficult times in life. At the time of her diagnosis, Lois worked with her husband who was Superintendent of the Union Rescue Mission, where they helped feed and assist the homeless in Wichita, Kansas for 20 years. Rather than allowing her cancer diagnosis to defeat or discourage her, Lois took a very difficult situation in her life and used it to begin a new ministry to help other families experiencing the fear, confusion, financial difficulties, and loneliness which can often be associated with the cancer diagnosis and treatment. She recognized that we all need the opportunity to receive support and encouragement as we travel the journey through cancer. More importantly, Lois put that truth into action! While going through oncology treatments, an article was written in the newspaper about Lois' experience with cancer. After that article appeared, cancer patients and family members began to call to talk with her. Many expressed their desire to meet together in support of one another. Although she had a very busy schedule, Lois took their names and phone numbers and after consideration and prayer she asked her daughter, Diana, if she would help her hold a meeting in her home. That first support group meeting in May 1983 was the beginning of Victory in the Valley (VV). The organization expanded to a lodging facility in 1986, after Lois realized there was a great need for affordable lodging for out-of-town cancer patients and families who had to leave their homes and come to Wichita for oncology treatments. Many had to be away from home for 6 weeks of radiation. In August 2003, Victory in the Valley purchased a new facility located at 3755 E. Douglas in Wichita, which is the headquarters for VV offices and many of its support programs and services. The facility, named "Victory House" has allowed VV to expand many of the support programs and hold gatherings for up to 125 cancer survivors and supporters. The VV Board and Staff have witnessed first-hand that when the practical needs of cancer patients are met, the human spirit rises to the occasion and they begin to find comfort, encouragement and hope that their life can still be filled with happiness and joy, despite cancer. As a survivor shared, "We are learning to look at the width of our life, not just its length." In 2013, Lois Thomi, age 85, began to decline due to a noncancer related illness. She went home to be with the Lord on May 13, 2013. Lois' life remains an encouragement to cancer survivors and supporters. Hundreds of VV volunteers, along with the VV Board and Staff remain committed to continuing her ministry to those living with cancer. Lois always said that we each need to "Prepare to die, but then plan to live." She did exactly that for the next 31 years after her cancer diagnosis. Although the diagnosis of cancer is a frightening and overwhelming time for you and your family, it was her prayer that by sharing her cancer experience, you will know that there is "life after cancer!" The mission of Victory in the Valley is "To encourage cancer patients and their families on their journey by offering hope through emotional and spiritual support, while providing practical services to improve the quality of their lives." The continuation of VV is a living tribute to VV's beloved founder, who understood that the joy and hope which we give away to others, not only blesses them, but returns to bless the giver.