Round Lake cancer survivor unfurls Bear Down flag at game

LIBERTYVILLE – Advocate Health Care cancer survivor Sally Wagner was recognized as the Chicago Bears’ special guest Dec. 26 during the Bear Down Flag Ceremony.

Advocate and the Bears invited Wagner, a Round Lake resident and patient at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, to help unfurl the giant flag at Soldier Field during pregame introductions for the Bears’ game against the Seattle Seahawks. Wagner’s family joined her on the field before they returned to the stands to watch the game.

The memorable event marked the one-year anniversary of Wagner completing chemotherapy treatment, providing her an opportunity to celebrate her health with loved ones.

In spring 2023, Wagner sought treatment for painful fibroids and opted for a routine hysterectomy. During the procedure, her gynecologist discovered suspicious tissue and a biopsy confirmed Wagner had non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

The diagnosis came as a shock to Wagner, especially since she has no family history of the disease. Although she felt more fatigued than usual, Wagner hadn’t experienced the typical symptoms of lymphoma such as swollen lymph nodes, fever or night sweats.

The aggressive lymphoma required immediate treatment. Wagner stayed at Advocate Condell for 92 hours of continuous chemotherapy every two weeks for six rounds, with additional rounds later in the year.

“I got really close to the team while I was there. From the very first night of treatment, I felt at ease. Everyone was so positive and kind and the care was excellent,” Wagner said. “I never looked forward to chemo, but I looked forward to seeing the team who cared for me.”

The doctors and nurses admired Wagner’s strength, resilience and sense of humor throughout her lengthy inpatient chemotherapy treatment.

“I felt blessed to have met Sally and to be her nurse administering chemotherapy during her stay,” said Jetta Rodgers, a charge nurse in the Advocate Infusion Center. “Sally handled her diagnosis with such grace. She remained positive and focused on healing. Sally’s fun and upbeat personality won the hearts of everyone on our unit.”

Wagner stays connected with the care team that supported her during her journey, but now that cancer is behind her, she’s focused on embracing the present and looking ahead to the future.

“It’s amazing that it has been a year since I finished treatment. I feel great, I’m back at work, I exercise regularly, and my hair is even growing back,” Wagner said. “I’m so grateful to celebrate this milestone at the Bears game alongside my family.”