Be Your Own Hero + Biggest Advocate - Geralyn Christensen
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Geralyn Christensen is a retired schoolteacher who dedicated 27 years of her life to nurturing young minds in Elk Horn. With her husband, Arlan, by her side, they have built a loving family that includes their two sons, David and Lucas, along with their spouses, Lesly and Nic. The joy of their lives is in the laughter of their two grandchildren, Aubry, 15, and Austin, 13.
Geralyn’s days are filled with the warmth of family gatherings, the charm of sewing and crocheting, and the thrill of attending her grandchildren's events. Together with Arlan, she spends her time helping out on their farm, embracing the beauty of nature, and the simplicity of rural life. Yet, amidst her routine, the happiness of her life soon faces a test.
On February 8, 2024, a day like any other, Geralyn went to Myrtue Medical Center (MMC) for her annual mammogram. Little did she know that this routine visit would change everything. The following day, a callback from Myrtue’s Diagnostic Imaging team stirs a mix of anxiety and uncertainty within her. They see something concerning and want her to return for further examination.
The next day, Geralyn finds herself back at Diagnostic Imaging, undergoing a second mammogram and an ultrasound. When the technicians inform her that a small mass is found, her heart sinks. But they perform a biopsy that very day, providing a glimmer of relief in the storm of uncertainty.
The waiting period begins, and Geralyn’s mind races with thoughts and fears. It is a Thursday, and she is told the results will take some time. However, impatience gets the better of her. The next day, she logs into MyChart, only to see the dreaded words that forever changed her life, "Yes, you have breast cancer." It is a moment she can hardly process, and just minutes later, she receives a call from Dr. Erlbacher’s nurse, confirming her worst fears.
With a heavy heart, Geralyn seeks the expertise of Dr. Scott Hammling at Iowa Methodist in Des Moines, a name recommended by a friend who fights a similar battle. The first appointment looms on February 28th, twenty days after her life was upended. Here, she learns that she has been diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma stage one, a form of cancer that gets caught early, thanks to her routine screenings.
As the days progress, Geralyn’s strength is tested. On March 21st, Above and Beyond Cancer reaches out, offering her a free night at a hotel in Des Moines, a gesture that eases her burden just a bit. The next day, she undergoes a partial mastectomy, and when the surgeon delivers the news that the cancer has not spread, joy floods her heart. Against the backdrop of her family history — four of her siblings battle cancer — this is a victory she cherishes.
Her journey continues with appointments for radiation treatment, starting on May 3rd. Through it all, Geralyn remains grateful for the support of her family, friends, and the dedicated medical staff who guide her through this turbulent time. With each passing day, she embraces her new normal, finding strength in her hobbies and the love of her family.
Reflecting on her journey, Geralyn has a singular message for women everywhere: "GET YOUR ANNUAL MAMMOGRAM!" She knows that if she hadn’t kept up with her screenings, the outcome could have been much different.
As Geralyn prepares for her six-month checkup in October, she feels a renewed sense of purpose. With her family by her side and the lessons learned from her journey, she is ready to embrace life once more, cherishing each moment and encouraging others to prioritize their health. In the heart of her beloved farm, surrounded by the laughter of her grandchildren, Geralyn finds peace and hope, ready to face whatever lies ahead with grace and resilience.
