Bay Pines VA Veterans Lean on World-Class Oncology Care to Beat the Odds
For many women Veterans, defying expectations is familiar territory and Bay Pines VA Healthcare System recognizes the hurdles they may encounter, both in and out of service.
It is for this reason that the organization remains committed to supporting these brave Americans as they go toe-to-toe with a different kind of ruthless adversary: cancer.
“From the very instant I began receiving cancer treatment here, everyone has been so wonderful,” shared U.S. Navy Veteran Roseanne Corey. “I’ve never received the level of care and support from a medical center that I got here at Bay Pines VA. The radiology staff are just amazing people.”
Because Bay Pines VA is an integrated healthcare system, Veterans are treated using a multi-disciplinary model of care. The high-quality care Veterans receive can be credited to the collaborative efforts of dedicated health care professionals across the healthcare system; however, for those battling cancer, their journey begins at the Radiation Oncology Center (ROC).
“Quality of life is one of the things we focus on during treatment because the goal is to help patients develop sustainable habits that will not only keep them healthy, but also fulfilled,” said Bay Pines VA Radiation and Oncology Chief Dr. Huma Syed. “Making lifestyle changes can be extremely difficult but it’s worth it because it often leads to a ripple effect that impacts future generations.”
It is this approach, as well as the use of leading technologies in the oncology field, that grants Veterans like Dr. Marianne Mathewson-Chapman the peace of mind needed to navigate stormy waters.
“Once I was diagnosed with breast cancer, my care management team provided an unbelievably comprehensive and empathetic care plan. I was immediately connected to all the VA supportive services, and my family was directly involved each step of the way,” shared Mathewson-Chapman, who is a Veteran of the U.S. Navy and Florida Army National Guard.
Mathewson-Chapman continued, “I was overjoyed to participate in the Whole Health program, which has been a God-send because it’s helped me remain physically and mentally strong during my treatment and recovery process.”
The ultimate goal for anyone living with cancer is remission but, until that day comes, those who have survived this life-altering illness are buoyed by an intangible force: courage.
“Courage, for me is less about a grand, single act of bravery and more about a dance between shadow and light, a constant awareness of two wolves within me,” said U.S. Navy Veteran Shannon Waters. “The fear wolf whispers limitations and anxieties. But the courage wolf, rooted deep in my heart, speaks the language of love and growth, constantly whispering, "You got this!"
The Veterans who shared their perspectives in this article are also featured on Bay Pines VA’s Women Veteran Wall, which is proudly displayed at all nine of our sites of care.
Bay Pines VA will recognize new honorees twice, annually. Women who are interested in nominating themselves or other women Veterans for consideration can reach out to the Women Veteran Program email group at VHABAYWVP@va.gov.