Patient Voices: Jasmine Hillman

Overview

In December of 2024, Jasmine's radiation oncologist asked her one simple but life-changing question: "I'm going to suggest something to you that I would suggest to a loved one – have you heard of proton therapy?"

Jasmine Hillman's journey to Texas Center for Proton Therapy began several years earlier. In 2019, while delivering a presentation on stage, she experienced her first symptom. "At first I didn't know what to make of it – I went to various appointments, saw different specialists, and when my initial biopsy came back benign, I was incredibly fortunate to have a medical team that advocated for me and sent a second sample for confirmation."

The diagnosis

Upon receiving her cancer diagnosis, Jasmine's care team mobilized immediately. "After my surgery, I learned I would need radiation to ensure the cancer wouldn't return. My radiation oncologist warned it could take weeks for insurance approval, but miraculously, everything aligned. Just one week later, I was being fitted for my mask and preparing to receive proton radiation therapy. I'm profoundly grateful for access to proton therapy – I continued working and even maintained my exercise routine throughout treatment."

The journey

Treatment options for head and neck cancers vary based on size, location, and whether the cancer has spread. These cancers develop when malignant cells form in the head and neck region, including the mouth, throat, and nasal cavity. Proton therapy offers distinct advantages for head and neck cancer patients, helping preserve tongue function, taste sensations, and swallowing ability – often eliminating the need for speech therapy or alternative feeding methods later. Head and neck cancers represent approximately four percent of all U.S. cancer cases.

"I cannot express enough gratitude for Texas Center for Proton Therapy. Dr. Sturgeon was everything I could have hoped for in a radiation oncologist. The front desk staff greeted me with warmth, joy, and genuine concern for my wellbeing every single day. The technicians are truly remarkable, with the patience of angels. At 36, I never imagined undergoing 33 treatments at a facility like this, but I wouldn't have chosen to conquer this mountain, fight this battle, and navigate this journey with anyone but Texas Center for Proton Therapy."

The information included in this testimonial is based on one patient’s unique experience and is not intended to represent all patient outcomes or expectations.