I had a routine mammogram that was questionable and subsequently was scheduled for an ultrasound and biopsy. I received that call from Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist with my biopsy results. It was cancer. That is one word that no one wants to hear, and it brings an immediate fear into your mind if you let it.

While I know many who have beat cancer, it is still a word with an automatic connotation of death. I was assigned two breast cancer navigators. I was told they would help navigate me through this process. I did not know that I needed any help. The first day that I met Jennifer, she assured me that this was the best place for me to receive the treatment I needed. She made me feel like I belonged and gave me comfort that I was in the right place. Jennifer told me I could reach out to her at any time, and she meant it. When I had a scheduling issue or if I didn't understand the results of a test, I called her, and she always responded in a timely manner with the right information.

During my course of treatment, I had someone call and give me misinformation on some test results. I was being told about things in my diagnosis that I wasn't aware of, and I tell you, it was scary. I immediately called Jennifer, who immediately looked at my chart and results and was able to give me the correct information. In another incident, my treatment had stalled, and I didn't understand why. I reached out to one of my providers and didn't get a real response. I think I called Jennifer, who made an appointment with both of my providers the next day. When I left that appointment, I knew what the next steps were and was able to continue my treatment. It is because of Jennifer that I can say I had a positive patient experience.

While there were mishaps along the way, she corrected them immediately and made things right. I have come to trust Jennifer and the information that she gives me. She is an excellent patient navigator as she is patient-centric and makes sure the patient has what is needed. Her help included filling out FMLA forms and submitting them, as well as insurance forms. She worked with my team of providers to make things happen when it seemed things had stalled. I am an employee of Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist and knew I would get good care but had no idea that I would need help navigating through treatment for breast cancer. Jennifer made a difference and should be rewarded for her tenacity and for going over and beyond expectations. I felt like she cared about me as a person and as a patient.

Thanks, Jennifer, for all you do!