In 2021, severe stomach pains sent Geralynn Brown to the hospital, where she received life-altering news: stage 4 cervical cancer.
In a matter of days, her life transformed from long work hours to a grueling regimen of radiation and chemotherapy. Geralynn underwent numerous procedures, including blood transfusions and surgeries to address complications caused by radiation.
Despite these challenges, Geralynn’s spirit remains strong. Her family, especially her husband and five grandchildren, became her inspiration.
“I have to live. I’ve got to keep going,” she says. “My grandkids love their MawMaw, and I can’t let them down.”
A Change in Mindset
Geralynn’s journey wasn’t just about physical battles; she also had to overcome mental struggles.
“My body was fighting, and my mind was telling me to give up,” she says. But a turning point came when she decided to focus on her recovery. She began to recover, and the time between chemotherapy sessions was able to lengthen.
“Now I haven’t had chemo in about a year,” she says. “Thank you, Jesus.”
A Message of Gratitude
Throughout her journey, Geralynn received compassionate care at Woman’s Cancer Pavillion, a partnership with Woman’s Hospital, Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute and Mary Bird Perkins.
She has been supported by a team of incredible caregivers, including Sobia Ozair, MD, hematology oncology physician with Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute, who played a pivotal role in her treatment.
“Dr. Ozair and her team treated me like family,” Geralynn says. “They never gave up on me, and that made all the difference.”
Geralynn also shares her appreciation for Deirdre “Dee” Alexander, the front desk receptionist at the cancer pavilion.
“When I couldn’t talk, she’d pray for me right there,” Geralynn recalls. “She’d grab my hand and tell me, ‘You’re not going anywhere.’”
Encouraging Others to Prioritize Health
Geralynn’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of prioritizing self-care.
“I hadn’t seen a doctor in 29 years,” she says. “Whatever you have going on, it can’t be more important than taking care of yourself. It has to be your top priority.”
Today, Geralynn is focused on spreading awareness about cervical cancer and encouraging women to prioritize their health.
“Cervical cancer is nothing to play with,” she says. “It’s a deadly disease that can take over everything. Take care of yourself and protect yourself.”
Living with Faith and Strength
Now 55, Geralynn celebrates each day as a blessing. She has regained her appetite, started walking 3,000 steps a day and is cherishing time with her family.
“I’m blessed,” she says. “I went from dying to walking a marathon.”
Her faith and prayers have been a constant source of strength.
“I’m so blessed and so happy,” Geralynn says. “I hope my story reaches other women and inspires them to fight. You can get through this.”
On January 5, Geralynn will be honored as one of Our Lady of the Lake’s Geaux Heroes during the LSU Women’s Basketball game against Auburn.
