A Discussion with Jackie Butler

(Jackie is pictured above (left) with co-worker Evelyn.)

Love is a great healer!  Be generous with it!

For more than a decade, Jackie Butler has been a valuable member of the Joy to Life Foundation team, working as its book keeper. But she’s dedicated to far more than keeping the foundation’s finances in order. As a breast cancer survivor, she brings her passion for early diagnosis to work every day, helping the foundation ensure Alabama women have access to proper breast cancer screenings. Here, she shares how a routine mammogram found her cancer, and how thoughtful friends sustained her through treatment.

Describe your cancer diagnosis and treatment.
I was diagnosed through a normally scheduled mammogram in 2008. They then did a needle core biopsy and confirmed it was cancer. I had Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in my right breast. I had a lumpectomy and chemotherapy along with radiation.

What was your first thought when you heard the  diagnosis?
I looked up and said, “God, I am going to need your help on this one!” I also remember when my hair came out thinking, “I may really be sick!”

Through the treatment process and after, what did you want and need from your friends and family?
My daughter asked me to fight and stay here for her, and this was my greatest encouragement! She immediately changed my diet to help my strength and stamina during this time. My twin sister went with me to my chemo treatments and encouraged me the entire time. She was very supportive. I continued to work at MetroFitness all during my treatment. The staff and members were extremely supportive! They threw me a hat party, and I received more than 20 hats of all sorts. This was a great encouragement. They also gave me a “I’m all done party” with champagne and lots of fun. So many precious friends brought flowers, food, prayed for me (the best) and kept me going. I am so very grateful for all of the above. It was just what I needed to finish strong.

Hats Off to Good Friends When they learned of her breast cancer diagnosis, Jackie’s friends and coworkers at MetroFitness (where she worked at the time) threw her a hat party to make sure she had plenty of stylish head-coverings to help her cope with the hair loss from chemo. But the party was so much more than practical; it showed Jackie in a tangible way how much she was loved and valued. This support, more than the actual hats, was a gift that gave Jackie needed strength. She sent the below “thank you” to all of the hat party attendees. "What can a hat do? It can bring joy to a naked head and cheer to the recipient onward to a renewed belief… life can be fun in the midst of a trial!” I am so grateful to God for placing me at Metro Fitness among such wonderful, caring people. Thank you so very much for your support and thoughtfulness. I know God is healing me and look forward to many happy, healthy years together. May God bless you and your family.”

What one thing that you did for yourself most helped you cope?
Praying and reading my Bible. Both of these things always lift me up! And making sure I was eating only good food, plus, always following my doctors instructions. I was walking at Metro on a regular basis too. We had several ladies at Metro during that time going through chemo or just having finished, so I started a noon walking club so we could encourage each other and share ideas. This was so much help, and several of us still stay in touch even now.

What advice would you give other caregivers/spouses/parents/friends, etc., on how to approach and help their loved one who is going through cancer treatment?
First, BE POSITIVE! This just naturally helps to lift you—and them—up. Getting a card in the mail is very encouraging as well. Listen to the patient as to how they feel about eating and exercise, etc., and keep a “light touch” with these things; don’t push. At the same time, be aware if the patient truly seems to need to see the doctor, or lovingly let them know if you are concerned about something. LOVE is a great healer! Be generous with it.

For more inspiring survivor stories, check out these Joy to Life podcasts.