Breast cancer survivor Jean Archer finds strength and purpose in survival

IN a household in Old Harbour, St Catherine, where community and family are at the heart of everyday life, Jean Archer’s story became the epitome of courage, determination, and the undeniable strength found in love and support. Her life, once a comfortable routine of work and everyday joys, took an unexpected turn with a breast cancer diagnosis. What followed was a journey of challenges, small victories, and the people who carried her through.

Archer grew up on Featherbed Lane off Old Harbour Road, attended St Catherine Primary before moving on to St Catherine High School, and later studied at Duffs Business College. Life, prior to diagnosis, she remembers, “was good. I was doing great”. Breast cancer was never something that crossed her mind daily.

“I knew it affected many women, and if not treated quickly, it could move fast,” she said. What she never imagined was that it would become part of her own story.

The first warning came unexpectedly, in a moment as ordinary as a morning shower. “When the rag went over my left breast, it was painful. I didn’t hesitate – I  made my way to the clinic the very next day.”

The doctor’s examination was quick. “The doctor touched it, I flinched, and he gave me a referral to Spanish Town Hospital,” she shared. The diagnosis hit Archer like a thunderbolt. “I never thought I would be one of those people. I asked the Lord, ‘Why me?’ and I cried. I was scared, confused, and heartbroken.”

Her treatment journey was long and gruelling, involving surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. She explains that some aspects of the treatment process were taxing while others were manageable.

“Chemo was rough. My mouth always felt dirty, no matter how often I brushed. Radiation wasn’t so bad for me, but every person’s body reacts differently.” Through it all, her faith and the encouragement of her mother sustained her.

“My mother reminded me, ‘God does things for a purpose. You’re not going to die’. Those words carried me through the hardest days.”

Archer’s family and friends were her pillars of strength and support.

“They cheered me on, never allowed negativity to enter, and made sure I knew I could get through it,” she said. Their support, coupled with the guidance of Jamaica Reach to Recovery, helped her navigate the emotional and financial challenges of cancer treatment.

“Reach to Recovery has been a tower of strength. They offer financial support for mammograms, hold monthly meetings, and I was inspired to join because of the warmth and love I saw in that group.”

Two years after completing treatment, Archer reflects on the profound changes cancer has brought to her life.

“When my treatments ended, I could finally breathe again. Surviving breast cancer taught me that you only have one life. Cherish yourself, live fully, and take life one day at a time,” she shared.

Archer encourages everyone facing a diagnosis to trust in God. “It can be a hard pill to swallow. Distance yourself from negativity – remember cancer is not a death sentence.”

Her advocacy continues through awareness and community outreach. She sees initiatives like the Pink Run as vital for educating people and generating resources to fight breast cancer. She also shares a reminder to people that breast cancer is not exclusively a woman’s disease. “Men can get it too. Do your self-exams, and if you’re unsure, ask your partner to help check.”

Archer is now able to reflect on this experience with a deep sense of gratitude and renewed purpose. Breast cancer is not merely viewed as a challenge she fought and conquered, but as a life-changing journey that taught her the value of self-care, the strength of community, and the power of hope. She has learned to appreciate each moment, to lean on those who love and support her, and to use her story to encourage others facing similar battles.

As Jamaica Reach to Recovery continues its mission to support and empower those affected by breast cancer, events like the JR2R Pink Run play a vital role in funding these efforts. This year’s run took place on Sunday, November 16 at Emancipation Park in Kingston. JR2R, in partnership with Food For The Poor Jamaica, hosted a donation drive during the run to support ongoing hurricane relief efforts. Participants were encouraged to bring non-perishable food items, toiletries, and other essential supplies to help families in need.