The "C" Word, Community not Cancer: Jean's Story

When Jean Birch injured her shoulder falling down the stairs, she did not imagine the journey that injury would take her on. After physical therapy failed to provide adequate relief, she consulted with an orthopedic doctor who ordered a scan. The results revealed a more severe diagnosis: lung cancer.

Almost immediately, Ms. Birch met with an oncologist, lung doctor, and surgeon. Her daughter was by her side at all appointments, which helped tremendously in processing the information. Anyone who receives a cancer diagnosis can rightfully “tune out” when being delivered the news. So, it’s really important to have an advocate who can assist. Fortunately for Ms. Birch, her daughter works with the FBI and was not afraid to ask any or all questions that came to mind.

The Journey Begins

While Ms. Birch had a pretty good attitude about the diagnosis, leaning on her faith, she of course was dreading certain things about treatment—particularly chemotherapy. “I wasn't looking forward to chemo; I’d heard a lot of nasty stuff about it and it's all true. I didn't cry when they told me I had cancer, but I cried when I lost my hair. That was harder,” she shares.

In addition to chemotherapy treatment, Ms. Birch also underwent a surgery to remove part of the lung, four ribs, and 17 lymph nodes. Unfortunately, after two years of treatment the cancer returned and she was told, at one point, that she had three days to live and entered hospice.

Thankfully, that three-days prediction did not come true. Ms. Birch resumed treatment and is going through it currently to address a small lymph node under her arm.

A Cancer Diagnosis Doesn’t Have to Be a Death Sentence

When asked her best advice about receiving a cancer diagnosis, Ms. Birch encourages people to stay hopeful and positive. “Don't think it's a death sentence. It's not, necessarily, and it gets better. Every day [the experts] learn something new.” she offers.

Another tip she notes is to surround yourself with a robust support system. “You don’t have to be alone. Open yourself up. Let people in. They're the best medicine.”

Much of that for Ms. Birch came in the way of her friends and their church connections. “I found out I was on prayer list for three or four churches. I know because I'd run into somebody at the store and they'd say, ‘What's going on with you? I've seen you on our prayer list.’”

Ultimately, she wants people to know that hearing “you have cancer” is devastating, to be sure. But, it can be a successful journey.

For more information about oncology services at Riverside click here.