When former 103.5 KLite DJ Jaybee Jariol got diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, she embarked on a journey filled with pain, courage, and ultimately, triumph.
Photo: Jaybee Jariol
Now cancer-free, she proudly shared her inspiring story of battling cancer with WhenInManila.com, detailing how this life-altering experience transformed her perspective and made her stronger.
Battling the Odds
Jaybee had already been dealing with endometriosis and adenomyosis before her cancer diagnosis. In late 2023, her worsening pain led to the discovery of a 9cm tumor in her right ovary.
After undergoing surgery, the tumor was confirmed to be malignant, resulting in a total hysterectomy. Her biopsy result revealed that she was diagnosed with stage 1c1 ovarian carcinosarcoma—a rare and aggressive cancer.
“Those two weeks of waiting felt like a lifetime. I Googled all the possible scenarios, which didn’t help with my anxiety. After discussing my biopsy result, I felt scared but I was also at peace with my new reality. I just had to deal with it,” she said.
Jaybee described her diagnosis as a rollercoaster of emotions, which significantly took a toll on her mental and physical health. Even the decision to undergo chemotherapy was a tough one, given her family’s history with cancer and the trauma of losing her father to the disease.
Photo: Jaybee Jariol
“I knew I had to go through treatment right away especially since my cancer was aggressive. However, my mom and younger sister didn’t want me to go through chemotherapy,” she explained.
“I completely understood and respected their opinion because we lost our dad to cancer back in 1999. He completed his treatment but unfortunately lost the battle at the age of 45. The trauma from that experience, especially for my mom, is something that I didn’t want them to go through again.”
Jaybee knew it was her best shot at survival. She persevered, drawing strength from her family and friends. After consulting with several oncologists and even exploring a naturopathic approach, the majority advised starting chemotherapy as soon as possible.
“Although I was scared, I knew that my body could handle it. The best option was to go through chemo. I discussed this with my family and they respected my decision,” she added.
Journey to Healing
She began her chemotherapy in January, undergoing treatment every three weeks. The former radio DJ also emphasized how her family served as her greatest support system in this challenging journey.
“My mom and sister would always accompany me during chemotherapy. Often I would have the most number of companions inside the cancer center and I loved that the nurses didn’t mind. I even looked forward to every session because I got to spend more quality time with them,” she said.
Photo: Jaybee Jariol
She reiterated that, after being diagnosed, she felt more connected to her father—talking to him during moments of pain, reflecting on his own struggles, and believing that he was watching over her throughout her journey.
“This journey connected me to more people—even those I haven’t talked to in ages. I drew strength from that. I knew I had more reasons to live. It was difficult but the love and support that I received helped me get through it,” she continued.
Upon completing chemotherapy, Jaybee underwent a positron emission tomography (PET) scan and received the good news she had been praying for: she was cancer-free.
“I cried happy tears upon discussing the results with my doctor. I started this battle scared, but I knew in my heart that I will be healed. I never doubted,” she expressed. “I also learned a lot about myself during this journey. I didn’t know the amount of courage that I had until this experience. It took more than physical strength and faith because it really was a daily battle.”
New Beginnings and Perspectives
Jaybee also opened up about how this experience has profoundly impacted her life, teaching her the importance of gratitude, mindfulness, and self-care.
“Since I got diagnosed, I have become more grateful. I started every day with gratitude as I felt more blessed to be alive. The saying ‘every gising (waking moment) is a blessing’ never felt more true. I have also learned to be more humble,” she happily shared.
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As someone who used to embrace the hustle culture, she has now learned to appreciate a slower pace of life and prioritize her overall well-being.
“My self-worth was largely dependent on my productivity. I juggled my duties as a radio DJ, events host, voice-over talent, and corporate girl. I was passionate in all my endeavors and thought that I could do everything all at the same time. My body took its toll,” she noted.
“I am only human after all. Now I am starting to embrace a slow, mindful, and steady life. I am more kind to myself now, allowing a longer rest period and accepting that I am okay with this pace.”
She reflected on how mentally and emotionally challenging the past year had been due to the COVID-19 pandemic, acknowledging the toll it had taken on her and sharing the valuable lessons she gained from it.
“Our thoughts and emotions are very powerful tools. I have been reminded to let go of things that are beyond my control and just fully trust in Him.”
Words of Hope
When asked what advice she would like to give to people facing the same struggles as her, Jaybee stressed that it’s perfectly fine to feel scared. She shared this empowering message:
“It’s okay to be scared. Honor that. But do what you have to do because you are not alone and you are stronger than you think. People care for you more than you can imagine, so don’t be afraid to ask for help as well. Find your tribe and hold on to your faith. I am rooting for you too. We will get through this.”
Currently, she’s consistently taking better care of herself by eating healthier and working out more often. Although she hasn’t resumed her career in radio and hosting, she intends to use her experiences to make a positive impact.
She concluded the interview on a hopeful note, saying, “I plan to use my voice for a bigger purpose now that I’ve been blessed with a second chance at life.”
Jaybee’s courageous battle against cancer serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, hope and resilience can prevail. Her story inspires us all to cherish life, trust the process, and find strength with the people we love even in the darkest moments.
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