Shirlene Caspers

A nurse at St. James for more than 18 years, Caspers, RN, was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 1992.Even as a nurse, Caspers admits her cancer diagnosis was a frightening experience.

After undergoing surgery and chemo-therapy, Caspers remained cancer free for more than seven years.

When a patient is diagnosed with cancer, he or she may experience a series of emotions from despair and anger to disbelief and confusion.In the midst of all these emotions, patients are faced with making life-changing decisions while still feeling powerless against the weight of the very word "cancer."

St. James has listened to Caspers' story as well as other courageous stories told by many cancer patients.Realizing the mental and physical impact a cancer diagnosis can have, St. James is working to better assist patients in their fight against the disease.

Caspers, who previously headed the Emergency Services Department at St. James, has now taken on the new role of Comprehensive Breast Health Coordinator.

In her position, Caspers, a certified Breast Health specialist/coordinator, will see to it that newly-diagnosed breast cancer patients are armed with the information needed to make educated decisions regarding their disease and treatment options.

She also hopes to serve as a resource for patients seeking physical and mental support in their fight against cancer.

"It's not an automatic death sentence," Caspers said."There's life after being diagnosed with cancer."

As a cancer survivor, Caspers is able to offer patients a different perspective."I'm not walking in their shoes, but I can identify with what they may be going through," Caspers said. Although the fear and uncertainty that accompanies a cancer diagnosis cannot be erased entirely, patients can feel comforted knowing that they have an experienced nurse following them throughout the entire process.Every decision the patient makes regarding his or her care can be made after knowing all the facts about the specific course of treatment.

Depending on the specific case, breast cancer patients may need to interact with a variety of specialties in the hospital from radiation to pain management.As breast health coordinator, Caspers can pull all of these specialties together to provide seamless care to the patient.

"We're here to individualize the patient's care to best suit his or her needs," Caspers said.

"Patients need to find the mental strength to get through," said Caspers."While traditional medicine cannot be cast aside, individuals may need to implement other techniques in over-coming the challenges ahead."

If a patient is interested in complementary therapies, such as Reiki or other relaxation techniques, in addition to existing therapies, Caspers can help direct the patient to the proper resources such as the St. James Health and Wellness Institute on the campus of Prairie State College.

In her new role, Caspers also hopes to make early detection of breast cancer a top priority.According to the American Cancer Society, early detection has lead to a continued decline in the death rate for breast cancer.

"I plan to address women of all ages and races to increase their awareness of the importance of early detection," Caspers said.
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If you would like more information about St. James' comprehensive cancer services, call Shirlene Caspers at (708) 756-1000, ext. 7450.