Beaufort Nurse and National Guard Major Connie Pope Celebrates Triumph Over Cancer After Life-Changing Diagnosis

Beaufort’s Connie Pope: From Service to Surviving Cancer

In the charming city of Beaufort, South Carolina, the story of Constance (Connie) Pope is one of resilience, courage, and triumph. A devoted mother of three, a major in the South Carolina National Guard, and a compassionate nurse on the oncology floor of Beaufort Memorial Hospital, Connie had life largely figured out. However, just as she was achieving her dreams, life threw her a twisted curveball.

Early Signs of Trouble

It all began in late 2019 when Connie experienced pains in her chest and abdomen. Initially, she and her doctor considered it a potential gastrointestinal problem. But by early 2020, a lump appeared on her chest, prompting further examination. “When the lump showed up, everything changed,” Connie said, sharing the urgency she felt.

A Journey Through Service

To understand Connie’s journey better, we can rewind 15 years. Back in the day, she served as a specialist in the Florida National Guard, bravely escorting convoys through the challenges of the Iraqi desert. Connie’s decision to join the Guard came while she was at Florida A&M University, driven by a strong sense of duty and commitment to serve her country. After returning to Beaufort in 2013, Connie was eager to embrace her next challenge: becoming a nurse.

She enrolled at Trident Technical College in Charleston, balancing studies and her work as a certified nursing assistant on the oncology floor at Beaufort Memorial. “Oncology has always been close to my heart,” Connie shared, highlighting her passion for providing care to cancer patients. After graduating in 2015, her dream came true when she officially became a registered nurse, eventually taking on the role of clinical coordinator.

Facing the Diagnosis

However, all her new beginnings were overshadowed by an unexpected diagnosis. In March 2020, after visiting the Beaufort Memorial Breast Health Center, Connie was told she would need a biopsy. “I didn’t even know what to do with that information. I was only 37 and physically fit!” she recalled. Just a week later, her fears were confirmed: it was an aggressive type of breast cancer.

Courage in the Face of Adversity

Connie received the news during her annual training with the Guard. “They sent me home to focus on my health,” she recounted, realizing the weight of her new reality. Her husband, Jeremy, who she had married just three months before her diagnosis, stood firmly by her side, reminding her to maintain a positive outlook.

In the face of a major life challenge, Connie found strength in her family and friends who rallied around her with support. “My mother was my rock,” Connie expressed, recalling how they prayed together and how her family took charge of logistics, from driving her kids to activities to preparing meals.

Support and Healing

Even her three daughters, Aleeyah, Iyana, and Niquava, became little helpers around the house, adding to the family’s strength as they navigated their difficult journey together. Throughout her chemotherapy, Connie remained steadfast in her clinical role, drawing on the compassion of her colleagues for support.

“Connie is a joy to work with,” said Chimene Heyward, a breast care navigator at Beaufort Memorial. “She educated herself about her treatment, took charge, and made decisions that were best for her.” Connie fondly recalls a moment during one of her early diagnostic biopsies when a radiology technician held her hand, making her feel calmer amid the whirlwind of emotions. “Their support was genuine, and I felt it every time I visited,” Connie stated.

A Bright Future Ahead

Fast forward to today, Connie is a beacon of hope, having celebrated four years cancer-free as of May. After completing a master’s program to become a nurse practitioner, she is now serving patients at Beaufort-Jasper-Hampton Comprehensive Health Services Inc., confidently specializing in adult medicine.

Reflecting on her experience, Connie says, “They got to see me at my weakest and my strongest. Overall, my circle not only eased my burdens but also strengthened our bond.” She encourages everyone to take care of their health, know the signs of breast cancer, and seek early detection.

Conclusion

The month of October brings Breast Cancer Awareness Month, dedicated to celebrating survivors like Connie while raising awareness about the importance of early detection and access to quality care. If you’d like to learn more about breast cancer, visit local health resources to stay informed.