Gennifer Birnbach After reading Yael’s recent Just a Thought, “Support,” Laura Devens felt compelled to write in. In the piece, Yael encouraged readers to bring an extra set of ears to doctor appointments—or to be that extra set of ears for someone else. Laura’s response struck a chord:
Amen! As a stage 4 breast cancer patient for nine years, my retirement gig has been to help newly diagnosed people navigate the difficult path going forward… and to always remind them that we’re being treated in a different time, with new treatments all the time.
We asked Laura to share a little more about her journey, her outlook, and her style.
What was your reaction to Yael’s message about accompanying people to doctor appointments?
As someone who has been living with stage 4 breast cancer for nine years, I’ve learned how much information people receive when they’re newly diagnosed—and how little of it they actually absorb.
Having another person there to listen, ask questions, and take notes can make an enormous difference.
Today, one of the ways I support others is by accompanying friends from the cancer community to appointments. It’s reassuring for them, and it feels meaningful for me to be there.
What has living with cancer taught you?
Life throws you curveballs. It’s how you handle them that defines you.
I’ve also learned that you can’t change what is—you can only control your reaction to it. That mindset has helped me through cancer and plenty of other challenges in life.
What gives you hope?
Modern medicine. When my cancer returned, I received what was essentially a terminal diagnosis.
Nine years later, I’m still on my first line of treatment and living a full life. New treatments are being developed all the time, and that’s something I always remind newly diagnosed patients.
What did you do before retirement?
I spent my career as a manufacturer’s representative in the furniture industry, working with high-end retailers and the design trade. Even now, I still enjoy design projects and recently helped redesign my community clubhouse.
How would you describe your style as a teenager?
I graduated high school in 1969, so I started out completely preppy—pleated skirts, penny loafers, and knee socks. Then I went away to college and everything changed.
Within a month, my style shifted right along with the times.
And how would you describe your style today?
Wearing pieces that give me joy.
Any final words of wisdom?
Don’t go through hard things alone. Whether you’re the person needing support or the person offering it, having someone by your side matters more than you realize.
Want to read Laura’s full story? Her powerful essay for The October Project shares more about her experience living with stage 4 breast cancer, resilience, friendship, and finding joy in everyday life.
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