The Winn Parish Journal is teaming up with the Juanita Pharr Cancer Support Group to shine a light on local cancer survivors. Each month we will bring awareness to various types of cancer and share success stories of our local community members. Today’s survivor Spotlight is on Susie O’Bryan.

After learning she had breast cancer in August 2025, Susie began treatment at Women’s Hospital in Baton Rouge. What helps most, she says, is the obvious care shown by her doctors and that nearly all of her caregivers are women who can relate on a more personal level when addressing her questions and concerns

She is blessed with a large support system that includes her husband Ronald O’Bryan, her daughter Lana Knotts, her son Kendall and all of her grandchildren. Her church, The Family Church (located at 1806 Maple St) and her coworkers at the Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office have been extremely encouraging , sponsoring fundraisers to help with expenses during treatment. “Seeing the love pouring out from our community shows me how truly special Winn is,” O’Bryan said.

When asked what she would tell others facing this disease, O’Bryan shared, “Always remember that God has you through it all.” She draws strength from her faith and from the “army” of family and friends who stand beside her. She has recently started sharing her story at Juanita Pharr Cancer Support Group, where honest conversation and fellowship reminded her she is not walking this road alone.

As Susie continues treatment, she leans on a familiar verse to steady her: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13. With faith, family and friends surrounding her, Winn Parish is proving once again that love is a powerful medicine.