Rayetta Noyes (left) has been there every step of the way since her husband, Hyrum Noyes (center), was diagnosed with colon cancer about two years ago. “He supported me through thyroid cancer, so it’s only fair,” Rayetta quipped. The two, who wear matching shirts to each of Hyrum’s treatments, are pictured here with provider Alexandra Donovan, MD.

On Tuesday, June 18 cancer survivors, providers, friends and family gathered at Sayre Park in Glenwood Springs for a celebration organized by Valley View’s Calaway-Young Cancer Center. Chip Winn Wells, who many will recognize from her frequent roles in local theater, and her husband, Mike Wells, were the keynote speakers. Both are thriving cancer survivors. Chip, who has been through three bouts of cancer, recognized Mike as her number one supporter. Both credited the staff at the cancer center for their well being.

Chip was struggling to get out of bed for a time, but nine days after her most recent treatment she began to return to her old self. Over breakfast one morning, “Mike looked at me, crying, and he said, ‘Chip, it’s a miracle you’re back.’ And I never would have gotten there without all of the people at the cancer center and all of my friends and family who kept praying, burning sage and sending white light; and I took it all,” Chip told the crowd. “It all comes from the same source, and that’s from love … It’s what got me through.”

Chip Winn Wells
Lenny the Leonberger, a therapy dog, has been a fan favorite at Valley View, supporting staff and patients alike.
Sue Drinker, who was featured in last year’s Sopris Sun coverage of the event, has been taking photos of cancer survivors since her diagnosis in 2005.
Mike Kinser joined Shaefer Welch on harmonica for a few songs during the event. Kinser finished treatment at the cancer center following a cholangiocarcinoma diagnosis two and a half years ago. He typically performs with musician Kinser’s advice to anyone is to “have as much fun as possible.”