Breast Cancer Awareness Month: PSC Recognizes the Journey of Officer Marilyn McBride

CHICAGO HEIGHTS, IL - Prairie State College (PSC) recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month, honoring survivors, supporting those currently in the fight, and remembering loved ones who have lost their lives. An inspiring example of courage in the PSC community is Officer Marilyn McBride, a Police Officer, student, and breast cancer survivor whose journey reflects her strength as a woman, mother, and dedicated member of law enforcement.

Officer McBride joined the PSC Police Department in December 2019. In September 2023, she received life-changing news: a Stage 3 Triple Negative Breast Cancer diagnosis.

“When you hear the word cancer, the first reaction you have is that this is a death sentence,” she said.

Officer McBride faced her diagnosis with grace, continuing to work until she could organize her care and gather support from her family and colleagues. She officially began treatment in January 2024. Over the course of her 15-month journey, she went through 16 rounds of chemotherapy, nine rounds of immunotherapy, and three surgeries.

PSC Corporal Marcello Rivera, along with fellow campus police, donated sick days and funds so that she continued to receive a paycheck until her benefits began. The Human Resources team also made sure she had the support she needed throughout her treatment

“Special thanks to all the officers I work with on the 3-11 tour of duty,” Officer McBride said. “These officers don’t go a day without asking me if I’m feeling well while also offering their support if I need it.”

In March 2025, Officer McBride returned to work, cancer-free. At the same time, she set her sights on another lifelong dream: completing her associate’s degree. With 37 credits completed, a 4.0 GPA, and recognition on the Part-Time Honors List, she was recently invited to join Phi Theta Kappa. She credits her favorite professors, Nichelle Manuel, Associate Professor of Information Technology, and Valerie Nicholson, Professor and Coordinator of Music, for encouraging her love of learning.

“As soon as I got my foot back in this door, I started taking my classes again. With a 27-year career as a former Cook County Deputy Sheriff and raising three successful children, I was unable to get a degree. This is on my bucket list.”

In addition to pursuing her degree, Officer McBride accomplished a personal milestone in August, completing a 30-mile challenge during Chicago’s Bike the Drive.

She also shares advice for others:

“Keep yourself healthy by eating right, exercising, and staying positive. A negative spirit doesn’t help in any aspect of life.”

Her journey highlights the importance of awareness, early detection, and the support of a strong community. At PSC, survivors like Officer McBride are celebrated for their courage and resilience. 

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