Parish Nurse Network

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One Woman's Experience:
A parishioner's journey through cancer

"In March of 2000, I discovered a lump on my breast that mammograms had not picked up at my annual exams. Before this time, I believed I had basic good health.

How could I get cancer? I felt betrayed by my own body, and my own mortality became a huge awareness. I was not only deeply frightened, but also lost as to what to do next. I needed someone who would understand, who would help me ask the right questions and not be difficult to reach.

Bonnie, our parish nurse, was someone I chose to see weekly. She listened to all my fears and encouraged some new resources. She helped me become more aware of the totality of health and a basic understanding of cancer.

I treasured her listening skills and patient wisdom. I felt I could speak of my agony concerning my job, retiring earlier and facing the more frightening reality of chemotherapy. With chemotherapy and radiation treatments came extreme fatigue, which left me feeling helpless and deeply sad.
Bonnie's support was critical during this time to keep me hopeful, yet facing my present reality. Spiritually, Bonnie assisted me with powerful insights and empowered me to look at such topics as surrender, living the moment and listening to my own heart.

I'm so grateful that our parish has Bonnie as our parish nurse. I never would have dreamed a parish nurse would play such as essential role in my recovery and on-going health."