In 2016, Hilary discovered her passion as an outrigger paddler, spending time on the ocean. She met Lisa in an outrigger canoe team in Ventura Harbor. In November 2021, Hilary Witbrodt noticed something unusual - she wasn't sure if it was stress or hemorrhoids. When she was diagnosed with rectal cancer, she felt scared. Hilary realized Lisa was an oncology nurse at UCLA Health, and had her by her side on her first day of chemotherapy. Lisa provided the reassurance, comfort, and familiarity that helped Hilary get through this period.

A little over a year later, Hilary and Lisa have a closer-than-ever friendship, and are sharing what they both initially bonded over: paddling.

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