06/24/2024
What if Cancer knocked on your door?
Based on the American Cancer Society, Cancer Facts & Figures 2024, “Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the US. A little over 2 million new cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in the US in 2024.”
The word cancer alone can cause anxiety and panic for most Americans. “When you’re in the belly of the cancer beast, you’re surrounded by patients who aren’t so fortunate. I learned real quick there would be no feeling sorry for myself. I was the lucky one,” shared Jessica Hagewood, President of Dixie Chemical.
Jessica received her diagnosis in the rise of the company’s growth and development under her new leadership. She brought about the ex*****on of the first acquisition, second best earnings, curbing turnover, extensive plant expansion, and building out one of the highest performing executive leadership teams ever assembled. It was a busy time at Dixie to say the least.
Dixie Chemical has been a market leader in the development and manufacturing of high-performance specialty chemicals since the 1940s. Recognizing this history, she was intentional in cultivating a new mindset at every level of the company and winning over hearts and minds as she battled cancer.
Richie Watson, a seasoned leader at Dixie and Director of Manufacturing, offered these words: “I can’t say enough about how proud we are of Jessica and the trooper she was through her treatment process. At a time when all attention needed to be on her, she remained focused on the company and her team. It was a true display of her leadership. We all look forward to seeing this through with her to cancer free and are proud of how she handled it with character, courage and leadership. A true display of the leader she is.”
Jessica remained steadfast in her commitment to her team by never missing a meeting, never missing a day of work and never placing the burden of her cancer treatment on her team. Many team members were not aware of her cancer or treatment because she maintained business as usual.
“My cancer knowledge was close to nothing. I didn’t even know how many stages of cancer there were. I was grateful it was me and not my kids or family, grateful it was treatable, and grateful for my incredible coworkers. Grateful that I had MD Anderson twenty minutes from my door. I’ve made 82 trips so far. They absolutely deserve the hype. Gratitude is one of my greatest takeaways,” Jessica openly shared.
Jessica shared her story with her friends and family on Facebook this past week and has had an overwhelming amount of support. Many have applauded her willingness to be vulnerable while others have appreciated the open dialogue of dealing with major medical issues as a top executive, leader and mother.
Dixie Chemical’s HR Manager Lisset Ogando Escobar shared, “Jessica’s resilience is truly admirable. Her openness about her personal journey has not only inspired me but also other leaders in our organization. Jessica exemplifies how transparent leaders build trust, empower teams, and foster a culture of openness and integrity. Rather than being defined by her circumstances, she has actively defined her own path. Her transformation is a powerful testament to the impact of mindset. Jessica embodies the strength derived from self-belief and determination. On behalf of the leadership team, those who know your story, and those who will now know your story, we are so proud of you!"
“Cancer knocked on my door and I was not willing to lose this fight. I knew if I was given the chance to live, I would not let the 20 weeks of chemo, 20 rounds of radiation and surgery knock me out of the fight. Being raised by a single mother in humble circumstances breeds a competitive mindset. It has never been about winning but rather not losing when given a chance at every stage of my life and career. This eye-opening experience has left me stronger and more confident than ever before. I’m humbled by the support and grateful to my husband, family, friends and the Dixie team. I’m glad I decided to share my fight with cancer,” said Jessica Hagewood, President of Dixie Chemical.
A few takeaways for you to consider:
1. Find Cancer, before it finds you. Go get tested.
2. Get proper medical insurance. Invest in preventative health.
3. Build a community to discuss cancer.
American Cancer Society Link:https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/research/cancer-facts-and-statistics/annual-cancer-facts-and-figures/2024/2024-cancer-facts-and-figures-acs.pdf
