UMMC Grenada nurse uses cancer journey to encourage patients

Published on Tuesday, September 3, 2024

By: Jewell Davis, jdavis25@umc.edu

Photos By: Melanie Thortis/ UMMC Communications

Jessica Greer, registered nurse in ambulatory care at UMMC Grenada, who is known for guiding and comforting cancer patients, has triumphantly overcome a personal battle with colon cancer.

In late 2023, Greer, 38, began experiencing abdominal pain and bleeding, prompting her to see a doctor. A subsequent colonoscopy revealed a 5-centimeter mass in her colon.

“I was referred to a general surgeon in Oxford, and I had a robotic colon resection. He removed 8 inches,” said Greer.

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the third most common cause of cancer-related death in both men and women in the United States. The rate of new colorectal cancer cases varies greatly by region, with Mississippi having the highest at 46.5 new cases per 100,000 people.

Since the 1990s, the rate of colorectal cancer (which includes cancers of the colon and rectum) has been rising steadily among adults younger than 50, according to the National Cancer Institute. 

Following her diagnosis, Greer underwent surgery and began a chemotherapy regimen under the care of Dr. Dennis “Bubba” Morgan, associate professor of medicine and a medical oncologist at both Grenada and University Hospital.

“The university here (Grenada location) has the best of both worlds - it offers a small-town family atmosphere with big-time care," said Morgan. “You have everything here that you would get at the Jackson university location. It provides a lot for the people of Grenada and surrounding areas.”

“I was scared, but I trust them,” said Greer. “We’ve worked together for many years now, and I just trust them to take care of me. We help each other out.”

Kayla Moore, nurse practitioner in hematology/oncology at UMMC Grenada, played a crucial role in Greer’s journey. She reflected on the moment Greer told her about the issues she was facing.

“We started praying, and I would keep up with her,” said Moore. “I was with her when she got the results, and we all had a moment because this is something no one wants to go through, especially when she is so young and healthy. She is one of the healthiest people I’ve met. She eats well. She exercises and had no family history of cancer.”

Despite the side effects of chemotherapy, Greer continued to work. Her ability to support and encourage her patients, even while undergoing treatment herself, has not gone unnoticed. Moore mentioned that patients found comfort in Greer’s story, as she was able to offer them firsthand insights into the treatment process.

“Some of my patients absolutely love her (Greer) and know her story. They would pull me aside and say that you don’t know how much of a blessing it is that she can tell us what to expect or what to do because she has been there and done that,” said Moore.

A significant moment in Greer’s journey was becoming the second person to ring the new bell at the Grenada hospital location. The idea of placing a bell at the hospital was inspired by patient requests and has since become a symbol marking the end of cancer treatment, while celebrating the strength and hope of the patient.

“Patients can’t wait to ring it (the bell). It’s a sign of hope,” said Morgan. “The whole mood of the room lifts up, and people who may not really know you clap for you because they know what you’ve gone through on your journey. It’s really special.”

Looking ahead, Greer is focused on maintaining her health and being there for her family.

"I will continue to eat right, exercise and follow up on my scans and colonoscopy because I have two small children and a husband I need to be there for," she said.

Ultimately, Greer’s story is a testament to perseverance and the strong support network provided by her colleagues and the health care community.

"Don’t give up. Just continue and keep praying," she said.