June is National Cancer Survivors Month, and we’re sharing stories and insights from survivors in our CARES community. Jenny McClain first became involved with CARES by attending an introductory meeting while she was navigating and processing the initial news of her cancer diagnosis.

Thank you, Jenny, for sharing your story to inspire hope and raise awareness about the importance of continued investment in cancer research.

What were your biggest challenges during your treatment?

The biggest challenges during treatment for me were the mental ones. Sure, some were physical - by the end of radiation, I was as energetic as a Hot Pocket that had been microwaved a minute too long. But the mental challenges? Those were the heavy hitters.

Like my very first treatment appointment. You walk through doors with a generous donor's name and the words "Cancer Center" following them, and suddenly cancer isn't just a pathology report or a phone call. It was reality hitting me square in the face.

Then they called my name.

That was the moment it became real - like, really real. Hearing my name being called in front of a waiting room of others, who all now knew I was the cancer patient. I'd never before felt so fully out of control of my own life as I did in that moment. I was so furious at cancer, so scared, so NOT ready to truly believe it was happening to me. I started sobbing instantly.

Without saying a word, the intake nurse wrapped me in a hug. The kind of hug that told me she'd done this before. The kind of hug that said, “I've got you, even for just this second.” It was one of the most poignant moments of my journey. Of my life. One of the lowest and one of the highest at exactly the same time.

And standing there through all of it was my husband, Jay. I don't know how people get through cancer alone. I know I couldn't have.

Cancer introduced me to some of the hardest moments I've ever faced, but it also introduced me to extraordinary kindness. I'll never forget either.

Did any treatments or trials in your care come from cancer research?

Yes. To say cancer research changed my life would be an understatement. Cancer research saved my life.

I was part of the final clinical trial for the immunotherapy Keytruda (chemo is not an option for melanoma), and I was in the treatment group.

Someone before me volunteered for a trial so that someone like me could have a chance. Because of that research, because of those doctors, scientists, donors, and patients who were willing to go first, I'm here answering these questions today.

That's a pretty incredible thing to think about.

Has surviving cancer changed your outlook on life?

How hasn't it changed it? That would probably be the easier question to answer.

Cancer has a way of stripping away the noise. The things you thought mattered suddenly don't. The things you took for granted suddenly become everything.

I celebrate more. I go on the trips. I buy the concert tickets. I buy the flowers. I (try to) worry less. I say “I love you'“ so often now that I make it weird, and I don't care. I cry easier. I laugh harder. I make all the memories I can with the people I love. This is what life's about for me now.

I have a much lower tolerance for putting off things that bring joy.

*Jenny and her husband Jay with their daughters*

What message would you share with someone diagnosed with cancer?

Just keep going.

Even when you're scared.

Even when you're exhausted.

Even when you think you can't.

You can.

And on the days you aren't sure, borrow strength from the people who love you until you find your own again.

Cancer can feel incredibly lonely, but you don't have to do it alone.

If you're reading this and you need someone who's been there, reach out to me. Seriously.

We'll figure it out together.

Survivor Spotlight: Jenny McClain

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Survivor Spotlight: Nicole Naditz