Life can change in an instant.
After her annual mammogram, Jennifer Severance was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer — the most aggressive form of breast cancer. Triple negative breast cancers are less responsive to traditional treatments, and generally have a higher rate of recurrence.
“As a single mom to three children, this was an extremely frightening time in my life as I wrestled with my diagnosis and, ultimately, my mortality,” Jennifer said.
Over two years, Jennifer’s medical journey included five surgeries, four months of oral chemotherapy and IV chemotherapy, and a clinical trial at the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute.
“I never even considered receiving my care anywhere other than OHSU,” Jennifer said. “I had my twins at OHSU and received amazing care for myself and for them at Doernbecher and there was really no other option for me when it came to my journey.”
Today, Jennifer is in good health and is transitioning into a cancer survivor. In her spare time, Jennifer loves to hike, take road trips and cook.
Hear from Jennifer, in her own words, about her medical journey at the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute.
Patient Care
Giving thanks for the providers at OHSU
On this Doctors Day, March 30, we offer our gratitude to the remarkable health care providers at OHSU.
Patient Care
A 70-year milestone for pediatric cardio care
Lois Peterson is just as grateful for Doernbecher now as she was 70 years ago — when she was the first to receive pediatric heart surgery at OHSU.
Patient Care
Future state: what comes next at OHSU
What's the vision for OHSU's future? Hear from OHSU leaders about what comes next as OHSU charts a future of innovation, expansion, equity and workforce investments.
