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Nancy Barton
Breast Cancer
"When asked to share my experience as a breast cancer patient at Fox Chase Cancer Center, it was apparent that I was doing so from a unique perspective," explained Nancy Barton. When Nancy discovered the lump in her breast in April 2001, she had worked as a nurse at Fox Chase for 12 years.
"Since I played such an important role in fighting cancer, I never thought that I would become a cancer patient."
"One of the tag lines used in the publicity campaigns for Fox Chase is 'we fight cancer all day every day.' Since I played such an important role in fighting cancer, I never thought that I would become a cancer patient," said Nancy. Her diagnosis of breast cancer was confirmed within 2 weeks of detecting the lump. Nancy quickly switched gears from oncology nurse and cancer patient.
"It never occurred to me to seek care anywhere else."
When faced with a cancer diagnosis, most people spend time deciding where they should go to get the best treatment. Nancy recalled, "Thanks to my relationship with Fox Chase, I skipped that step completely. It never occurred to me to seek care anywhere else. When I came to work at Fox Chase in 1988, it was after 20 years of nursing in various settings."
As a nurse at Fox Chase, Nancy quickly learned she could make a real difference in the lives of my patients, because of the comprehensive and holistic approach that is used in caring for patients. "It was only natural that when I became a cancer patient, I would turn to my colleagues at Fox Chase for my care. I have never regretted that decision," she said.
Nancy's first step in treatment was at the Breast Evaluation Clinic (BEC). There she met with her surgeon, medical oncologist and radiation oncologist in one visit. All of the physicians involved, including a radiologist and plastic surgeon, reviewed Nancy's case to recommend a plan of care.
"As for as I was concerned, since it didn't all rest with one physician, the decision reached was as good as a second opinion," said Nancy. She followed the plan of care that was proposed and was able to proceed without delay to schedule her surgery, the first step in her treatment plan.
Nancy's experience became even more beneficial when she met with a breast cancer clinical nurse specialist and a social worker the morning of her appointment in the BEC. This team reviews medical information, answers questions, and provides useful tools for treatment.
"I think the BEC is one of the most outstanding programs at Fox Chase Cancer Center."
"I think the BEC is one of the most outstanding programs at Fox Chase Cancer Center, because of the way it encompasses the initial needs of the cancer patient," recalled Nancy.
Nancy was diagnosed with stage IIIA breast cancer. Her treatment included a mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation, followed by Tamoxifen and Femara. "I have recently experienced some lymphedema, which has responded well to therapy here in the rehabilitation department at Fox Chase," explained Nancy.
"I wish I could recognize the nurses, technicians, physicians, therapists and social workers who touched my life in very special ways."
Nancy went on to say "I wish I could recognize the nurses, technicians, physicians, therapists and social workers who touched my life in very special ways over the past 7 years. What I do feel compelled to share is the way I was treated as an employee of Fox Chase Cancer Center. Part of our mission statement says we will 'reduce the burden of human cancer.' I experienced that far beyond the medical realm."
Nancy was unable to work for 14 months during her treatment. She thanks the administration and her department who held her position until she was fully recovered. "That speaks volumes to the commitment of our center to make a difference in the lives of individuals," she said.
As Nancy reflects upon her journey, she remembers the ups and downs, and the fact that it was in no way effortless. She believes, "What is important is that I am now a 7 year survivor. My colleagues at Fox Chase have never disappointed my expectations and have helped me through every phase of my recovery and survivorship."
"I have been very blessed to have received my care at Fox Chase.
"This year, Nancy graduated to the "survivors clinic" where she will be seen by a nurse practitioner. "I take great comfort in having reached this milestone, because as a nurse who 'fights cancer all day every day,' I know that I have been very blessed to have received my care at Fox Chase and to be able to call myself a survivor. It feels great when I can say to a patient, 'I've been where you are now,' and offer encouragement to her," she concluded.
Learn more about breast cancer treatment at Fox Chase Cancer Center.