With this feature series, The Cullman Tribune is highlighting everyday individuals all around Cullman County who make our community a great place. #IAmCullman
Many people choose to live in Cullman because of its small-town feel, a place where people are still willing to help each other. For Juanita Pajao, it has become her mission to help others. Pajao is currently battling ovarian cancer for the second time, and she decided to create the Cullman Survivor Society to offer a network of support and resources to others facing devastating illnesses, as well as the families and caregivers.
“Being down in Birmingham and seeing all the different organizations they had down there, I wanted to bring that here. I started taking presents down there to everybody because that’s my love language- gifting. I’m poor as hell, but somehow God just brings things to me,” Pajao said.
After hearing others talk to her about their loved ones who are sick and the many issues they had, she said, she knew it was time for action.
Recently, Pajao’s vision for the Cullman Survivor Society became a reality as the group celebrated its kickoff at Goat Island Brewing. She has recruited friends and family to help her. The group is currently in the process of filing for its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.
“I think I was supposed to do this the first time I had cancer,” said Pajao. “God gave me a vision and where He gives you vision, He gives you provision. I think God said, ‘Take advantage of this opportunity and do what you didn’t do before.’ I don’t think God makes us sick or anything like that. When we are sick, we don’t need to ask God to heal us. ALL the healing has already been done on the cross.”
Pajao spoke candidly about many personal issues she and other women often face when receiving cancer treatments.
“You know what one of the worst things is about cancer for a woman?” she asked. “When her hair comes out, you don’t feel as attractive. What it does to you is like losing your ‘womaness,’ especially with gynecological cancers and breast cancers. You feel ‘less than.’ You don’t feel as attractive and you’re not.”
For Pajao, she said, it turned into self-loathing.
She also knows the toll it takes on spouses and caregivers. Her own marriage was unable to withstand her second diagnosis.
“Let’s face it,” she said. “You aren’t a lot of fun when you are sick.”
Pajao is currently going through chemotherapy treatments and said she has good and bad days. The chemicals are taking a toll on her in many different ways. Despite this, she is determined to help others.
“Resources are out there, but we have to gather them all in and teach people to search for things,” she said. “Not everyone has or understands the internet; they need help. That’s just one of the ways we can assist others.”
Another program Pajao is interested in starting is a caregiver support group for men to help them know how to talk about or know what’s OK to ask when caring for women in their lives with cancer.
“Some of the issues that come up can be uncomfortable for men and can lead to a lack of communication,” she acknowledged.
Later in February, Pajao and her friend Pam Whitt will host a makeover party with several women from UAB Oncology. They will bring their make-up kits and help teach those undergoing chemo some shadowing and contouring techniques. This is just one of many fun and informative events Pajao and Whitt are planning.
“I feel like I am the cancer veteran this time,” Pajao said. “I know how being sick makes you feel about yourself. If you are sick, you shouldn’t have to drive or be driven to Birmingham to feel love and support. This community is full of love and resources. We just need to pull it all together.”
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