Final personal thoughts by Sue Kilburn



In June I took over my new role as Clinical Nurse Breast Health Educator at the Yolanda G. Barco Oncology Institute in Meadville under a grant from the Susan G. Komen Foundation. I am also a breast cancer survivor as is well known by now.

I am at work every day at the Yolanda G. Barco Institute and I can only say that I wish it had been here when I had to take my journey with cancer. I don’t want to sound like a commercial because I am sincere in saying that the institute is equal to and above what is available to patients anywhere.

It is exciting to be on the cutting edge and seeing the treatment and care that is given. I am proud to be a member of this team and honored to be in a position where I can outreach to others who are facing similar journeys.

The care and commitment that is offered in a community setting is a diamond in the rough. This plan is considered a whole body treatment and healing experience.

I am reaching out to the community to provide education, understanding and help. We are fortunate to have a Breast Care Navigator at the hospital who helps coordinate the front part of this journey and I am here to help you when your treatment and plan is being determined and follow through from there.

I am reaching out to schools, colleges and universities, local businesses and organizations and groups that express an interest.

I am hoping that I can help you or someone you know as this experience has long-reaching effects.

Breast cancer is an issue not just for older women, as a friend’s daughter was just diagnosed at age 23.

This is not to scare you. It is to motivate you to be pro-active in your own health issues.

Early detection saves lives and self breast exams, clinical exams and mammography are all tools to help us get those answers early.

Please feel free to contact me at the institute at 373-3381 and I hope to extend a helping hand. Thank you for letting me bring my story to you and hopefully help others.

Sincerely,

Sue Kilburn



PS — I still hate Brussels sprouts!

(Editor’s note: In the story The Meadville Tribune wrote to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Sue was quoted as having named her cancer Brussels sprouts because she hates Brussels sprouts.)