WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- In the realm of health care, there is a concept that often takes center stage: patient-centeredness. It’s a principle that transcends the clinical aspect of medicine, focusing on the holistic well-being of patients.
At Wright-Patterson Medical Center’s Cancer Care Clinic, this principle isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a way of life. Here, patients battling breast cancer find not only the best medical care but also a nurturing environment that encompasses comfort, emotional support, nourishment, expedited coordination with outside facilities, patient education, acknowledgment of birthdays and milestones, and most importantly, hope.
Before we delve into the remarkable journey of one of our patients, let’s understand what breast cancer is. It’s a disease that affects millions of lives worldwide. Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast tissue grow and multiply uncontrollably. Early detection and effective treatment are crucial in the fight against this formidable adversary.
Last October, one of our patients, a nurse herself, faced a daunting diagnosis: Stage III inflammatory breast cancer. This aggressive form can be exceptionally challenging because the prognosis varies greatly, ranging from months to years.
Her journey began with a keen awareness of changes in her breast tissue. She acted immediately by visiting dermatology for a breast biopsy. Within a week, her treatment began.
She underwent a bilateral mastectomy, addressing ductal carcinoma in situ and other necessary surgeries, including reconstruction. The road ahead was tough, as chemotherapy induced tachycardia and overwhelming fatigue. But she refused to give up.
With unwavering determination, she completed her chemotherapy, marking a significant milestone in her battle against breast cancer. The next step was radiation therapy, a decision met with initial reluctance but eventual agreement. Her tenacity carried her through, and she completed her radiation treatment in August.
During her journey, our patient found herself faced with not just medical challenges, but also the emotional toll of her diagnosis. This is where the Cancer Care Clinic truly shines. We understand that healing goes beyond medicine.
Throughout her journey, our patient received extensive support from various organizations. TRICARE covered most of the costs for wigs and other cosmetic needs. Our dedicated nurse navigator worked tirelessly, securing opportunities for her children to attend Camp Kern. During their weeklong stay at Camp Kesem, the children enjoyed “cabin chats” where they could express their feelings about their parent’s cancer battle.
From the Karen Wellington Foundation, she received an all-inclusive vacation to the Florida Keys for her and her family, providing a much-needed respite from treatment challenges. In addition, Maple Tree Alliance offered free physical therapy and a personal trainer, tailored to her unique needs as a breast cancer survivor. She also discovered Pink Ribbon Goods, a lifeline for breast cancer patients, providing essential resources like nontoxic cleaners, free rides, peer support and food for her entire family.
This amazing level of support helped lighten the load during her recovery.
Our patient’s path was full of challenges that demanded unwavering courage and resilience. Throughout her battle with breast cancer, she has not voiced a single complaint. Instead, she expressed deep gratitude for the care she received and unwavering support from the Cancer Care Clinic and various organizations that have embraced her in her time of need.
In this institution, patient-centered care is not just a concept; it’s a commitment in action form. It’s about nurturing hope, providing comfort and forging connections that go beyond the clinical setting. In the fight against breast cancer, it’s about standing together, hand in hand, to uplift and empower those on their journey to recovery.
At Wright-Patterson Medical Center’s Cancer Care Clinic, it’s not just about treating breast cancer; it’s about embracing the whole patient and igniting the flame of hope within them.
Together, we are a strong force. Together, we will conquer breast cancer.