A Masterful Moment

Phil Mickelson’s win at the Masters on Sunday was a stunning reminder of how cancer brings a family together. After clinching his third (but arguably his most memorable) Masters victory, Phil met his wife Amy behind the 18th green with a great big bear hug and we all got to see a single tear roll down Lefty’s cheek as they embraced. It was enough to make even the most die-hard Tiger, Boom Boom or Lee fan more than a little verklempt.

This was the first tournament Amy Mickelson had been able to attend in person after being diagnosed with breast cancer 11 months ago. In fact, Phil wasn’t sure whether Amy would be strong enough to make it that day. Happily she found the strength to be there, along with their three children, and Phil’s mother Mary Mickelson who was also sadly diagnosed with breast cancer in July.

When cancer touches a family, it changes everything. After Amy’s diagnosis, Phil suspended his PGA Tour schedule so he could be with his wife through treatment. Once it was determined that Amy’s prognosis was good, Phil planned to return to golf, only to be blindsided by his mother’s diagnosis. He took another leave from the Tour.


We see how cancer affects families every day at The Wellness Community. That’s why we offer programs that provide hope, support, and knowledge to the whole family, not just the patient. These programs include:

· Family Support Groups: Facilitated by professional psychotherapists with extensive training and experience working with people affected by cancer.

· Networking Groups: People with cancer and their loved ones can connect with others dealing with the same type of cancer.

· Kids Circle: A group for children who have a parent or grandparent with cancer. With the guidance of professional psychotherapists, kids play games, make art projects, and talk with others who know what it’s like to be part of a family dealing with cancer.

· Transition Group: For those who have experienced the loss of a loved one due to cancer.

We also offer stress reduction programs such as yoga and guided imagery, plus creative programs like watercolors and knitting. A variety of guest speakers offer insight and expertise on everything from treatment to nutrition, finances and beyond.

In celebration of families everywhere who are facing cancer together, we’d like to offer the Mickelson family our congratulations and encourage them to keep holding on to what’s important. There will always be another Masters to win or lose, but our families are the ones who are there waiting for us on the 18th green.

For more information about our free programs, please visit our website or call 805.379.4777.

Photo Courtesy of Getty Images