About United Step Cancer
The personal journey that inspired its creation.
Hodan Sirad’s life has been a testament to resilience and the power of self-advocacy. Growing up in St. Paul, Minnesota, Hodan was an active child who excelled in sports, joined clubs, and participated in community events. However, her life took a dramatic turn at the age of 15 when she was diagnosed with Stage 2 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma after months of unexplained symptoms. The diagnosis marked the beginning of a challenging battle with cancer, which overshadowed her high school years. Despite undergoing grueling chemotherapy, Hodan’s determination saw her through, and she went into remission just before her junior year.
As she reached the five-year survival milestone, Hodan looked forward to a bright future. She started college, found a job, and married her partner just before the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, she welcomed her son, Amir, into the world—a miraculous pregnancy that defied her oncologists’ warnings about potential fertility issues due to her earlier treatment. However, her joy was short-lived. Just four weeks after giving birth, Hodan began experiencing troubling symptoms, including night sweats, body aches, and a loss of appetite. Despite multiple doctor visits, her concerns were dismissed as postpartum symptoms.
Undeterred, Hodan continued to advocate for herself, eventually finding a physician who took her fears seriously. A PET scan revealed the devastating news: her cancer had returned, and she was diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. The diagnosis was a stark reminder of the disparities in medical care that minorities often face. If not for her persistence, Hodan might have missed crucial treatment opportunities that saved her life.
Hodan’s experience inspired her to co-found the United Step Cancer Foundation, an organization dedicated to bridging the gap in healthcare disparities for minority communities. The foundation provides financial assistance, community support, and advocacy to ensure that individuals of color receive the care and support they need during their cancer journeys. Hodan’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-advocacy and the need for equitable healthcare for all. Through the United Step Cancer Foundation, she is committed to making a difference in the lives of others, ensuring that no one has to navigate their battle with cancer alone.
