Vaccine Tips Nurse Off to Breast Cancer
- Jackie Arvin of Twin Hills, Maryland had been working on the front line of the COIVID pandemic for close to a year in February when she was eligible to get vaccinated. Swelling after her vaccine enabled doctors to find breast cancer.
- Now, after months of chemo and radiation, Arvin is cancer-free and using her experience to inspire other women to get checked early and often.
- “Don't skip your yearly Women's Health Appointments. I was young, healthy, exercised every day. I don't have any risk factors for cancer, and I tested negative for genetic mutations and the BRAC genes,” Arvin shared with readers.
Jackie Arvin of Twin Hills, Maryland, had been working on the front line of the COVID pandemic for close to a year back in February when she was finally eligible to get vaccinated.
Read MoreThere can be swelling of the lymph nodes after the shot, though in Arvin’s case, this swelling is what led her to find actual cancer in her body.
Now, after months of chemo and radiation, Arvin is cancer-free and using her experience to inspire other women to get checked early and often.
She has managed to keep an incredible sense of humor and displayed some real moxie through it all, as evidenced in the post she shared on Facebook the day she started her chemotherapy back in April.
It's eviction day! Surely you knew this day was coming. You were never invited in the first place, and you've already overstayed your welcome.
I'm going to need you to exit the stage left because I've got big plans and I don't have time for you. I've got daughters to raise and grandbabies to snuggle someday. I've got plans to travel and a husband to grow old and gray with.
Sorry, not sorry, but you picked the wrong B. I'm not the one! I've got a team of prayer warriors and God himself on my side, so you see, you never really even had a chance.
I've already thrown all your crap out on the lawn, so go on and Git!
Bye Felicia!
It was fitting then that her entire neighborhood would come together to celebrate her after she finished her treatment, with her husband organizing a surprise parade.
Jackie used it as an opportunity to thank everyone around her and offer some advice to women:
- If you have any family history of breast cancer, you should begin a routine mammogram at age 30. They don't advertise this. You have to advocate for yourself.
- Thousands of women under the age of 40 are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. I'm in a support group filled with women in their 20s and 30s. Most have not had children yet and are scrambling to freeze their eggs right now. Chemo can make you infertile.
- Do your self-breast exams often and if you feel something, get it looked at right away!!!
- Don't skip your yearly Women's Health Appointments. I was young, healthy, exercised every day. I don't have any risk factors for cancer, and I tested negative for genetic mutations and the BRAC genes.
- Last and most importantly not least (PAY ATTENTION HERE), Early intervention is key!!!
How to Deal With a Cancer Diagnosis Like Nurse Jackie Arvin
Dr. Elizabeth Comen, a medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, previously spoke with SurvivorNet about how to confront the fear of a cancer diagnosis without letting it take over.
1. Let your family and close friends know and let them help. So many cancer survivors tell us they want and need support but are often too preoccupied to make specific requests. Urge those close to you to jump in with whatever practical help they can offer.
2. Keep a journal. It can be extremely cathartic to let those feelings loose on paper. Grab a pen and a nice journal and chronicle your different thoughts throughout the day.
3. Join a cancer support group. There are groups in nearly every community offering opportunities to connect with others going through a similar journey. You’ll learn constructive insight from others who can tell you what to expect and how to stay strong on tough days.
4. Consider seeing a therapist. Ask your doctor to refer you to a therapist to discuss your fears and concerns in a safe space. Often, vocalizing your thoughts and feelings rather than internalizing them can provide relief.
Above all, know that there are countless resources and support here for you to turn to at any time. We’re fortunate to be in a time where we can rely on so many entities to help us through life’s hurdles.
How to Deal With A Cancer Diagnosis
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