October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The purpose of this annual campaign is to raise awareness, educate the public, and fund research. October is also a time for people affected by breast cancer to reflect and honor those who have died or survived. 

This topic is important to me. I was diagnosed with breast cancer during the pandemic and so were my two daughters! I am a nurse but suddenly I became a patient myself along with being the mother of two other cancer patients. The threat of Covid and the social isolation of the pandemic made it difficult for us to support each other during treatment and convalescence. We remain grateful for friends and neighbors who supported us while they dealt with their own challenges during the pandemic. 

Thanks to our oncology teams and state-of-the-art cancer care, we have been cancer-free for 4 years! One Country Club neighbor who contributed to my recovery was Joanna Morgan. Her role at that time was oncology nurse navigator with Bryan Medical Center. She helped me navigate the complexities of my cancer care while avoiding the Covid virus. Joanna listened to my unique situation as a mother and patient. She reminded me to focus on my own treatment – making the analogy to directing airplane passengers to put their oxygen mask on first. 

Joanna Morgan is not only an oncology nurse, but she is also a wife and mother of two and a Country Club neighbor like you!

Joanna continues to make a difference in the lives and treatment of others with breast cancer as Cancer Program Manager at the April Sampson Cancer Center. She and her colleagues help patients to heal and thrive. They offer support groups and recovery programs that enrich the whole person. 

Breast cancer is in my rearview mirror now and my perspective has shifted. I have gone beyond survivor to thriver. Now I am living my best life and pursuing new things. Writing is my priority these days. I love the opportunity to write for Stroll Country Club magazine and connect with neighbors. Other thrivers are learning yoga, oil painting, fly fishing, how to play chess or the ukulele. They are making friends in these new pursuits and creating their best life after cancer. 

Neighbors: This month make breast cancer screening a priority. Talk with your provider about your individual risk and get screened. Encourage your family members to do the same. Learn more about resources in our community, especially the April Sampson Cancer Center. It is a resource available to the whole community. You can get a massage there, schedule your mammogram there or take a yoga class. Check out the fabulous art created by local artists that is displayed throughout the Center. Take your walks on the sidewalks around the center - they are always open and accessible. Donate or walk in the Making Strides Event on October 20 at Holmes Lake. Hug a survivor. 

Bless you, Joanna. You inspire us to be healthy and supportive neighbors.