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Being diagnosed with cancer at the age of 25 is devastating, but not for Shara Baang, Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination 2023 Passer from Mountain View College. Instead of dwelling on this disheartening reality, she mustered all of her confidence and faith and successfully completed the licensure examination.

The evening of June 10 when Shara learned from her boyfriend that she passed the examination. She confirmed the information when she checked the information online. For Shara, it was a sigh of relief. Finally, it all paid off.

In an interview, Shara shared her inspiring story of how her faith lifted her from despair and catapulted her to success with her motivating story. Shara’s unwavering determination, coupled with her unique firsthand experience as a cancer patient, inspired her to continue a career in nursing, where she aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others facing similar medical challenges.

Shara’s career took an unexpected turn only two weeks before the important licensure exam when she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Her unwavering spirit, however, spurred her on as she learned about her condition’s favorable prognosis. Shara, who saw her diagnosis as a test, made the brave decision to go on and pursue her dream of becoming a nurse.

“The word “CANCER” sounds really frightening but upon knowing that Thyroid Cancer has a good prognosis, I was more encouraged to go on and pursue my dreams because I knew that this is just a mere trial,” Shara said.

“While preparing for our board exam, I kept on praying to God. But my prayer was somehow different. I didn’t only asked God to let me pass the exam so that I could reach my goals, so that my family won’t be disappointed, or so that my efforts will get paid. I also told God in my prayers that He will let me pass the exam so that I can become a blessing to others and be a living testimony of how true our God is. My testimony serves as an answer to my prayers. The cancer for me is a blessing. Because of these challenges, I could really testify that God is really good,” Shara narrates.

Shara gained unwavering support from her parents. According to her, there were moments when she wanted to give up, but her father will always remind her of “God’s faithfulness and God’s purpose why challenging things happen in our lives because He wanted to reveal His immeasurable love to us.”

Shara learned unique insights into healthcare and patient care because of her personal experience as a cancer patient. Her battle with cancer made her realize about the difficulties that patients encounter, particularly during the postoperative period. Shara gained great empathy for patients after experiencing pain, weakness, and a sense of helplessness, allowing her to approach patient care with a fresh viewpoint.

“Having cancer made me realize that I must exert more effort in caring for the patients. One of the most challenging parts of battling cancer was after my surgery. I was in a lot of pain. I was weak. I was helpless and I can’t barely talk or even move. Those were the times that made me realize that being a patient is not easy. As an individual who experienced those things, I was able to empathize with the patients which is why I could really say that my experience has influenced my perspective on patient care,” Shara explained.

Shara stayed motivated and focused on her studies despite the physical and mental impacts of cancer, strengthened by her unwavering efforts and the steadfast support of her parents. Recognizing her natural inclination not to be studious, Shara doubled her efforts to study, spending sleepless nights meticulously memorizing important nursing concepts. Her parents' financial investment in her nursing school fueled her determination to excel even more. 

Looking ahead, Shara envisions her firsthand experience with cancer as an asset in her future nursing career. She believes her unique perspective will allow her to provide exceptional care, particularly in post-operative settings for patients with similar cancer cases. Shara's journey has not become a hindrance; rather, it has become a catalyst for learning and personal growth, enabling her to connect with patients on a deeper level.

“Having cancer taught me a lot of things, especially in the nursing sector. One of these is post-operative care, particularly for patients with the same cancer as mine. This incident did not hinder me in any way. Instead, it turned into a learning experience. As I work with patients who have comparable problems to mine in the future, I believe I will be able to provide them with the care they require as someone who has been in the same situation,” Shara said.

Despite her continuous cancer treatment and the impending Radioactive Iodine Therapy from July 3 to July 21, 2023, Shara has already begun to shape her perspective on life and patient care. Her optimistic attitude and determination have shown that achievement and personal growth are achievable even in the face of hardship. Shara's tenacity and persistent confidence in God's intervention have enabled her to pursue her aspirations fearlessly, creating an indelible impression on everyone around her.

While Shara's clinical rotations have yet to begin owing to her ongoing treatment, she is looking forward to using her own experience with cancer to positively influence patients and their families. She intends to provide emotional care and support through prayer and sharing her story of God's goodness, inspired by her personal faith. Shara's primary goal remains to provide hope and comfort to those in need, ensuring that no patient feels alone on their path.

“My cancer journey taught me lessons where I could be able to empathize with my patients in my future work. My experience made me understand their struggle as a patient and because of that I am now motivated to become a better nurse,” Shara said.

“My experience didn't put me in a situation where I could be exalted. This experience of mine only proves that God is good. As I am about to pursue my nursing career, I will never forget how God helped me. This would really encourage other cancer patients to focus more on spiritual interventions. God is good, and I will keep telling others about it,” she added.

Shara's cancer experience has taught her life lessons that will surely help her become a better nurse. Her direct experience has given her a greater sense of empathy and compassion, allowing her to interact with patients on a more personal level.

Edward Rodriguez, SSD Communication Department