Deborah Hatmaker helps coordinate care for dozens of residents at Hometown Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, where she works in human relations.

In her battle against colon cancer, she has her own team for care and encouragement - made up of family, friends, co-workers and oncology nurses.

“Their support, it’s fantastic. I can’t say enough,” Hatmaker said.

Hatmaker, of Coaldale, was diagnosed last fall with colon cancer. She had no outward signs of illness, but a screening and colonoscopy revealed a tumor.

Hatmaker had surgery last fall to remove the tumor. She currently gets chemotherapy at home once a week, and wears a pump which administers a small amount on a regular basis throughout the week.

Other than the time she spends at chemotherapy, Hatmaker doesn’t miss any time at work. Her employer is flexible, and co-workers provide needed support so she can make sure she completes all her treatment while fulfilling the center’s HR needs.

“I don’t know what I’d do without them,” she said.

Hatmaker does have to isolate herself more at work because one of the side effects of her chemotherapy is a drop in her white blood cell count. Neuropathy affects her hands, feet and throat, and it can be triggered by cold foods or even winter air. When her chemo is over, she wants to enjoy a milkshake.

She said the oncology and infusion staff at St. Luke’s Miners Campus have been particularly helpful in managing the side effects and pushing forward through her treatment.

“It’s one minute at a time, one foot in front of the other,” she said.

She also loves receiving Facebook messages from family and friends offering words of support.

While no one enjoys colonoscopies and the preparation required, Hatmaker says it is worth it to follow doctors’ recommendations, so they can detect something early.

“It’s a necessary evil if you can prevent something,” she said.