You have cancer the most frightening statement a person may hear in a lifetime.
Those three words evoke a whirlwind of emotions, questions and fear. Thats why Martin Memorial created the Breast Health Navigator program at the Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center, which guides patients through the physical, emotional and financial challenges that accompany a diagnosis of breast cancer. The program is made possible through a grant provided by the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.
The Breast Health Navigator team consists of an oncology certified nurse and a clinical oncology social worker who assist women who have breast cancer, in all stages of the disease, whether they were recently diagnosed; currently living with breast cancer; or have a reoccurrence of the disease.
Breast Health Navigator, Carolyn McDonald, R.N., O.C.N., guides patients through the physical, emotional and financial challenges that accompany a diagnosis of breast cancer.
“Often when someone receives a diagnosis, its like hitting a brick wall. They come to us and theyre overwhelmed,” says Breast Health Navigator, Carolyn McDonald, R.N., O.C.N. “We listen to each patient and provide reassurance and resources. Studies indicate that women who are diagnosed with cancer have a strong desire for information about the disease. We help them find what theyre looking for and provide the support they need along the way.”
McDonald also offers support based on her experience working in the inpatient oncology unit, where she also works as a charge nurse. “Im able to tell them what they can expect when it comes to symptom management, chemotherapy, radiation and survivorship.”
McDonald encourages her patients to be informed and active when making medical decisions. This is accomplished through education, which the Breast Health Navigator program provides. “There is a lot of help and education out there; I assure my patients that, Youre never alone.”
In addition, McDonald offers genetic screening and counseling for breast and ovarian cancer. Learning more about a genetic risk may help patients and their doctors make informed decisions for the prevention and early detection of breast and ovarian cancer.
“Survivorship has greatly increased. Its not a death sentence, people survive,” says McDonald. “My goal is to share that knowledge and offer each patient a ray of hope and a helping hand.”
Breast cancer patients are encouraged to contact the Breast Health Navigator team after a biopsy and before surgery, or anytime during their journey. Physician referrals are encouraged, but not required.
