Climbing Higher: Janice Armbrust’s Glioblastoma Journey at Pacific Neuroscience Institute

In the heart of the White Mountains, Janice Armbrust and Jeff Ramos embarked on a challenging hike with four friends along New Hampshire’s Pemi Loop, a 33-mile trek known for its steepness and difficulty. Despite the risks associated with mid-October weather, they were seasoned adventurers prepared for the rugged terrain. Halfway through the hike, they encountered horizontal rain and hurricane-force winds that forced them to seek shelter. 

With drenched supplies and failed phones, they huddled together through the night, facing the intensity of the elements. It was a seemingly unsurmountable challenge that the couple overcame together. A few years later, they would need to face another significant hurdle. Janice, still in her twenties, was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a particularly aggressive brain cancer.

Leveraging her past outdoor adventures, she took on this diagnosis with unwavering resilience.

“My mantra outdoors has always been: Slow and steady, one step after the next,” Janice shared. “Likewise, in this type of situation, you can’t think of the mountain or the big challenge ahead. You have to focus on the next step and take it a day at a time. Otherwise, you’ll get discouraged, and you might forget to appreciate the beautiful views right in front of you.” 

Under the guidance of Dr. Akanksha Sharma, Neuro-oncologist and Palliative Care Specialist at Pacific Neuroscience Institute® (PNI®), Janice enrolled in a groundbreaking clinical trial for Optune, an innovative treatment involving Tumor Treating Fields (TTF). The revolutionary therapy employs external arrays worn on the head, emitting electrical fields that effectively slow tumor growth. 

Notably, these fields target actively dividing tumor cells while sparing healthy cells. Dr. Sharma emphasizes the extensive research and rigorous clinical trials that have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of Optune. According to Dr. Sharma, “the initial data showed that it helped patients in terms of improving their survival significantly when they were diagnosed with glioblastoma. And so, it is approved, it is safe, it does not affect healthy brain tissue.” 

Through these challenges, Janice learned to strike a balance between treatment and personal enjoyment, finding ways to pursue fulfillment while managing her health. Janice now excels in her fast-paced role in consulting. Beyond her professional success, she enjoys each day — walking her dog, spending quality time with her husband, and pursuing new travel adventures.