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Just before Thanksgiving a few years ago, Precious Brown’s life took an unexpected turn.

What began as a seemingly mild knot under her breast escalated into a diagnosis that shook the home healthcare worker and mother of three to her core: Stage IV breast cancer with metastases to her liver and brain. At just 32 years old, Brown found herself facing a battle she never imagined, one that would test her strength, resilience and faith.

For Brown, the cancer treatment journey was, especially at first, challenging and full of uncertainties. Her body was physically overwhelmed with fatigue, headaches and back pain by the time she arrived at Opelousas General for emergency care. The pain was so intense that she could not walk or stand on her own.

As she quickly learned, the greatest challenge she faced was the impact the cancer diagnosis had on her role as a mother, with three young children relying on her for support. At the beginning of her journey, Brown had physical limitations and had to spend most of her time in bed. However, she says that being able to stay in her home and receive treatment nearby was a blessing.

“I could get care quickly when needed. Traveling to another location was a hassle that my family didn’t have to worry about.”

Brown is thankful for having a comprehensive team by her side through it all. Her oncologist David Hanson, M.D, and nurse practitioner Rachel Cunningham at Mary Bird Perkins’ location at Opelousas General Health System, supported her day after day. She found comfort in the compassion and expertise of those committed to her treatment journey. “My care team was wonderful,” Brown says. “They were open, direct and assured me they were ready to work with me and my family. I am very thankful for them.”

Brown also received support from extended family members, and her children stepped up selflessly to help with household responsibilities.

As her treatment progressed, Brown began to regain pieces of normalcy in her everyday life. She celebrated small victories along the way, like improved strength and, once again, being able to walk on her own. Today she is fully mobile and has returned to most of her regular activities. Her quality of life has dramatically increased with the support of Hanson, Cunningham, and the rest of her care team.

Cunningham credits Brown’s remarkable recovery to her spirit and perseverance. “Precious inspires me on a daily basis,” she says. “She has responded beautifully to the treatment we provided, in part because of her inner strength. She’s remained optimistic and takes each day moment by moment.”

Brown reflects on her cancer journey with a large sense of gratitude for everyone involved in her care. She feels more resilient and appreciative of life as a gift and is more determined to focus on what’s really important – her family.

Her message to others facing similar challenges is to never give up. “Keep fighting. Surround yourself with positivity, and cherish every moment with loved ones,” she says.

Photo ID: David Hanson, M.D., Precious Brown and Rachel Cunningham

Author

  • Courtney Jennings is a contributing writer with St. Landry Now since 2023 covering local events throughout the parish. She also runs the local publication MacaroniKID Acadia-St. Landry, an online publication and weekly e-newsletter on family friendly activities, local events, and community resources for parents.

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