While I was home recovering from an appendectomy in March of '08 I went for my yearly mammogram.Much to my surprise, I was sent to a surgeon for a biopsy on a lump that I had had for 30 years. On April 1st, a call from the surgeon changed my life forever. It was stage 3 cancer. Within 2 weeks, I had a mastectomy and after 16 weeks of chemo a reconstruction. I learned a great deal about myself , my family, my friends,and my co-workers. We handled it with tears, laughter, and a lot of patience. I learned to wait. I learned to ask for help. I learned to enjoy life today, because tomorrow may never come. I am still cancer free two years later, and will never forget the kindness and support that I was shown.

Linda Wilder
West Milford, NJ