Restoring Hope: Johana Hernandez Story

For Johana Hernandez, St. Joseph’s Hospital has always been more than just a place of work—it’s been a part of her journey. Growing up in West Tampa, minutes from the hospital, Johana’s connection to the community was woven into her life from the beginning. Whether greeting patients as a college receptionist or serving as a hospice marketing representative, her compassion and dedication touched countless lives. Her relationships with colleagues and patients were not just professional—they were deeply personal.

Near the end of last year, Johana was preparing to retire, excited to spend quiet days at her cabin and embrace the joy of becoming a grandmother. But life had other plans. Her husband Frank, who was a schoolteacher for 45 years, was diagnosed with a gallbladder condition. As Johana was navigating her husband’s hospitalization, she was shocked to discover a lump in her breast.

She turned to the place she trusted most—St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital. “I had an ultrasound and a mammogram, and I saw a coordinator come out with a folder and knew that something was wrong,” said Johana.

Her radiologist, Dr. Mia Jackson, gently shared her concern that it was likely breast cancer. Three days later, a biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a rare and aggressive form which would require surgery.

Confronted with this life-changing diagnosis, Johana asked friends and former colleagues for a recommendation on a surgeon. They unanimously recommended Dr. Robert Gabordi at St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital.

From their first meeting, Dr. Gabordi offered not just medical expertise, but hope. “He told me, ‘This is scary, but it’s curable. We will treat you, and you will be OK.’ That gave me strength,” Johana said.

Her treatment journey was grueling—multiple rounds of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, two ER visits for possible sepsis, and a diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency. Johana recognized the incredible care and compassion of her medical oncologist, Dr. Yasmeen Hashimie, during this challenging time.

Through it all, Johana found support in the love surrounding her. Her husband was with her for every single appointment. Her kids were there for her, bringing food and flowers. Her cousin sent monthly cards filled with encouragement. And when she couldn’t join the family for Christmas, her son made sure the holiday spirit reached her, ordering a special dinner from Tampa culinary favorite, Columbia Restaurant.

This past January, Johana underwent surgery to remove the lump and three lymph nodes. On the day of the surgery, she was amazed by the sensitivity and compassion that Dr. Gabordi and the team demonstrated to her. She was able to return home that day.

A week later, she received the news she had prayed for: she was cancer-free.

“I had been praying for a Christmas miracle, and I got one. I had a complete and total response to my treatment,” Johana said.

Johana credited her wonderful experience to the incredible team at St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital. From the front desk to the infusion center, she felt that every member of her care team was committed to supporting her and ensuring the best outcome.

“This experience validated the feelings that I’d always had for the providers at St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital. The communication between my providers was incredible,” shared Johana.

In particular, she recognizes Dr. Gabordi and his team for their commitment to tremendous patient care.

She calls Dr. Gabordi “a community jewel,” and says the support she received restored her faith. Now, Johana is using her story to uplift others facing cancer. “Until you go through it, you have no idea how deeply it affects you and your loved ones. I want to be there for others—to help them understand the journey and know they’re not alone.”

Johana is proud to share her voice during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM). Her daughter and youngest son are getting into the spirit too, finding ways to give back and attending Breast Cancer Awareness events. And thanks to the care she received, Johana was able to celebrate her granddaughter Olivia’s second birthday and meet her new granddaughter Sienna— moments she cherishes deeply.

“Thanks to Dr. Gabordi,” Johana said with a smile, “I got to be there for Olivia’s birthday. That’s everything.”

Visit our website to learn more about Beyond Gratitude, the St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation grateful patient and family initiative.