Strength in Every Story

At UNC Health Wayne, we are proud to stand beside remarkable teammates who have faced cancer with courage, resilience, and hope. Each journey is unique, but all are united by strength, community, and the unwavering support found within our hospital walls. As we honor National Cancer Survivor Day, we invite you to explore the stories of our own survivors—teammates who have not only battled cancer but continue to inspire us every day. Click below to read their full stories.

Jacqueline Jackson

More than a Survivor: One Nurse's Journey to OVERCOMING Breast Cancer

On April 16, 2015, a familiar phrase took on new meaning for one of UNC Health Wayne’s own: triple negative breast cancer. As a former oncology nurse, she understood exactly what those words meant—and the tough road that lay ahead.

In mid-August 2024, a familiar feeling in the throat signaled something unexpected for one of UNC Health Wayne’s own. What began as mild neck discomfort and swallowing difficulty quickly became a life-changing diagnosis: thyroid cancer.

Angela Mills Angela Mills, an OB Tech II with Labor and Delivery at UNC Health Wayne, remembers the morning of July 20, 2016, with crystal clarity. It was a day that changed everything.

Despite keeping up with her annual mammograms, Angela discovered a lump during a self-exam at home. That morning, she woke to find blood coming from her breast—an alarming sign that prompted immediate action.

Jennifer Applegarth What began as a routine second mammogram at age 41 quickly became life-changing for one of UNC Health Wayne’s operating room team members. After a follow-up biopsy—initially described as precautionary—she received the diagnosis no one wants to hear: breast cancer.